I have always been fascinated by the Kenworth W900A. I have spent countless hours researching and learning about the truck’s history, features, and capabilities. The W900A is a classic model that has been in production since the 1960s, and it is still a popular choice for truckers today.
One of the things that make the W900A so special is its iconic design. The long hood, big power, and smooth ride are just a few of the features that make this truck stand out from the rest.
The W900A is a Class 8 conventional-cab truck that is primarily used for highway transport. The truck’s name is a nod to one of the two founders of Kenworth, Harry Worthington.
Over the years, the W900A has undergone several updates and improvements, but it has never lost its classic appeal.
The truck is known for its durability, reliability, and versatility, making it a favorite among truckers from all over the world.
Following the topic, I will take a closer look at the Kenworth W900A, exploring its history, features, and why it remains a popular choice for truckers today.
Table of Contents
History of Kenworth W900A
As I researched the Kenworth W900A, I found that it was a popular truck model produced by Kenworth from 1967 to 1982.
The W900A was a part of the W900 series, which was designed to replace the 900 series conventional trucks.
Now I will discuss the design and production of the Kenworth W900A.
Design
The Kenworth W900A was designed as a heavy-duty truck for long hauls. It had a conventional cab and a long hood, which gave it a classic look.
The W900A had a spacious cab with ample headroom and legroom, making it comfortable for drivers to spend long hours on the road.
The truck had a large windshield that provided excellent visibility, and the dashboard was designed to be user-friendly.
The W900A was available in several configurations, including day cab, sleeper cab, and extended cab.
The sleeper cab was particularly popular among long-haul truckers, as it provided a comfortable sleeping area for drivers during extended trips.
Production
During its production, the Kenworth W900A underwent several changes and improvements. In 1972, the truck underwent a major redesign, which included a new grille, bumper, and fenders. The redesign also included a new cab that was more aerodynamic and had improved visibility.
The Kenworth W900A was powered by a variety of engines, including Caterpillar, Cummins, and Detroit Diesel engines.
The truck was available with a manual or automatic transmission, and it had a range of axles to choose from, including 4×2, 6×2, and 6×4.
The Kenworth W900A was a popular truck model that was known for its durability, reliability, and classic design. It was a favorite among long-haul truckers and was used for a variety of applications, including hauling freight, heavy equipment, and livestock.
Features of the Kenworth W900A
W900A is a classic model truck that has been known for its reliability and durability. I will discuss the exterior and interior features of the Kenworth W900A.
Exterior Features
The W900A has a distinct exterior design that sets it apart from other trucks on the road.
One of its most notable features is its long hood, which accommodates powerful engines such as the twin turbo Cummins or the 3408 Cat. The hood is also easily accessible for maintenance purposes.
The W900A also features Kenworth’s 8-bag suspension system, which provides a smooth and comfortable ride. This suspension system was a new release at the time and was a significant improvement over other suspension systems on the market.
Another exterior feature of the W900A is its aerodynamic design, which helps to improve fuel efficiency.
The truck’s sloped hood and windshield reduce wind resistance, making it more fuel-efficient than other trucks in its class.
Interior Features
The Kenworth W900A has a spacious and comfortable interior that is designed with the driver’s comfort in mind.
One of its most notable interior features is its fully adjustable orthopedic seats, which provide excellent support for long hauls.
The dashboard of the W900A is designed with many parameters and large convenient controls, making it easy for the driver to access and control various features of the truck.
The truck also has two 12-volt sockets and many storage compartments, making it easy for the driver to store and charge their devices.
The W900A also has an extensive list of finishes, which allows the driver to customize the interior to their liking. This customization includes different materials for the seats and other interior components.
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Performance and Specifications
When it comes to the Kenworth W900A, performance is everything. This truck is designed to deliver power, speed, and reliability, no matter what the job requires.
In this section, I will cover the engine performance, transmission and axle options, and fuel efficiency of this legendary truck.
Engine Performance
The Kenworth W900A is powered by a range of engines, including the Cummins NTC, Detroit Diesel Series 60, and Caterpillar 3408. These engines deliver impressive power and torque, with horsepower ranging from 350 to 625 and torque ranging from 1,150 to 2,200 lb-ft. With this kind of power, the W900A can handle even the toughest loads with ease.
Transmission and Axle Options
To complement its powerful engines, the W900A comes with a range of transmission and axle options.
The standard transmission is a 13-speed manual, but an 18-speed manual and an automatic transmission are also available.
The W900A also offers a range of axle configurations, including single, tandem, and tri-drive options. With these options, drivers can choose the right combination of transmission and axles to meet their specific needs.
Fuel Efficiency
Despite its impressive power, the W900A is also designed with fuel efficiency in mind.
The PACCAR MX-13 engine, for example, delivers up to 510 horsepower and 1,850 lb-ft of torque while also being energy-efficient.
The W900A also offers a range of aerodynamic features, including a sloped hood and side fairings, to reduce wind resistance and improve fuel efficiency.
Maintenance and Repair
As an ex owner-operator of a Kenworth W900A, it’s essential to keep up with regular maintenance and repairs to ensure your truck operates at peak performance.
I will discuss preventative maintenance and common repairs that every owner-operator should know.
Preventative Maintenance
Regular preventative maintenance is crucial to keep your Kenworth W900A running smoothly. Here are some maintenance tasks that should be performed regularly:
- Oil Changes: Regular oil changes are essential for maintaining the engine’s health. I change the oil every 15,000 miles or as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Air Filter Replacement: A dirty air filter can decrease engine performance and fuel efficiency. I replace the air filter every 30,000 miles or as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Tire Maintenance: Regular tire maintenance is crucial for safety and performance. I check the tire pressure and tread depth before every trip and rotate the tires every 50,000 miles.
Common Repairs
Despite regular maintenance, repairs are sometimes necessary. Here are some common repairs that every owner-operator should know:
- Brake Repairs: Kenworth W900A trucks are equipped with air brakes, which require regular maintenance. I inspect the brakes every 30,000 miles and replace the brake pads and shoes as needed.
- Electrical Repairs: Electrical issues can cause a variety of problems, from engine performance to lighting. I inspect the wiring and electrical components regularly and replace any damaged or worn parts.
- Suspension Repairs: The suspension system is essential for a smooth ride and safe handling. I inspect the suspension system every 50,000 miles and replace any damaged or worn parts.
Customization Options
As a truck enthusiast, I know that customization is a key aspect of making a Kenworth W900A truly your own.
There are several customization options available for this truck, and I will highlight some of the most popular ones.
Paint and Graphics
One of the most obvious ways to customize your Kenworth W900A is by choosing a custom paint job.
There are many options available, from simple solid colors to intricate designs and graphics. You can even choose to have your company logo or other custom graphics painted onto the truck.
Some popular paint and graphics options include:
- Metallic and pearl finishes
- Two-tone paint schemes
- Flames and other designs
- Chrome accents and trim
In addition to paint, you can also add custom decals and graphics to your truck. These can be anything from simple stripes to full wrap designs that cover the entire truck. Some popular graphics options include:
- Company logos and branding
- Patriotic or military themes
- Sports team logos and colors
- Personalized designs and artwork
Accessories and Add-ons
Another way to customize your Kenworth W900A is by adding accessories and add-ons. There are many options available, from functional upgrades to purely aesthetic additions.
Some popular accessories and add-ons include:
- Chrome bumpers and grilles
- LED lighting and light bars
- Custom exhaust stacks
- Fender flares and mud flaps
- Interior upgrades, such as custom seats and steering wheels
In addition to these options, there are also many aftermarket parts available for the Kenworth W900A. These can include performance upgrades, such as engine tuning and suspension upgrades, as well as cosmetic upgrades, such as custom wheels and tires.
