The LeeBoy Advantage: Comparing the 8608, 8616D, and 8520C Asphalt Pavers for Optimal Performance

For over 60 years, LeeBoy has been a trusted name in asphalt paving, known for its high-quality, USA-made, ISO-certified equipment. Choosing the right asphalt paver is essential for maximizing efficiency and achieving the best paving results. In this blog, we compare the LeeBoy 8608, 8616D, and 8520C models to help you determine which one best suits your project needs.

Key Features of Each Model

The 8608 vs 8616 vs 8520C Comparison Chart

Key Differences Between the Models

Engine Power & Performance

The 8616D offers slightly more horsepower (127 HP vs. 125 HP) than the 8608 and 8520C. This additional power can provide improved performance on heavy-duty jobs requiring more torque, such as paving on steep grades or when working with stiffer mix designs.

Paving Width & Capacity

While all models can pave up to 15′ 6″ wide, the 8520C’s wider conveyor system (36″ vs. 20.5″) significantly improves material flow. This feature is particularly beneficial for larger projects, as it reduces material segregation and ensures a more consistent, smoother mat. The wider conveyors allow for better distribution of material across the screed, resulting in improved mat quality and potentially faster paving speeds on big jobs.

Mobility & Maneuverability

The oscillating bogie undercarriage of the 8608 and 8616D provides smooth operation over uneven terrain. This system allows the paver to maintain consistent contact with the ground, even on rough or poorly prepared surfaces, ensuring a more uniform mat thickness. In contrast, the crawler sprocket system on the 8520C offers greater stability during heavy commercial applications, making it ideal for projects requiring high production rates on relatively even surfaces.

Versatility

The 8616D’s combination of higher horsepower and oscillating bogie undercarriage makes it particularly versatile, capable of handling both heavy commercial jobs and projects with challenging terrain. The 8520C, with its wide conveyor system, excels in high-volume paving scenarios, while the 8608’s more compact design makes it ideal for urban environments or smaller job sites with space constraints.

Choosing the Right Model for Your Needs

When selecting a LeeBoy paver, consider the size and type of your projects:

• The 8608 is ideal for smaller commercial projects, offering excellent maneuverability in tight spaces. It excels in urban environments, parking lots, and residential streets where precision and agility are key.
• The 8520C is better suited for heavy commercial applications, shining on large-scale projects like expansive parking lots, wide roadways, or industrial sites. Its wide conveyor system ensures high material volume and consistent flow, potentially leading to faster paving speeds.
• The 8616D offers highway-class features in a commercial paver, making it versatile for a range of projects from commercial parking lots to light highway work. It’s an excellent choice for contractors handling diverse projects that require both power and adaptability.

Whichever model you choose, you’re not only backed by the trusted performance of LeeBoy but also by Ascendum’s dedicated product specialists. These experts are specifically trained on LeeBoy machines, ensuring they have the knowledge and skills to keep your equipment running at peak performance, project after project.

Ascendum is proud to partner with LeeBoy and offer a full line of LeeBoy products at the North Carolina and South Carolina locations. Contact your local rep to learn more.