Taking the leap...

Both are fine looking rigs. I like black, but they're a bear to keep clean. What motors and trannies are in each? Miles? Price?

 

The Kenny looks like it has aluminums, at least 6 of them for what it's worth. I'll be interested in knowing the differences between the ECM and odometer. Maybe it has been overhauled. I like the Detroit, they're built for MPG as far as I'm concerned.
I'm sure you'll enjoy comparing, driving and investigating both. Keep us posted and good luck!

 

I like the Freightliner with a Detroit motor. They have a lot of them to choose from. I bet you can find a good one you can buy for YOUR PRICE.
Good luck and keep us posted.

 

You're probably not going to like what I am going to say, but here goes.
I would probably steer clear of the CRST truck, there have been many complaints of them not maintaining their equipment, major abuse by drivers, but mostly for the 14 ltr detroit. I have an 04 columbia with the 14 ltr detroit, and the fuel mileage is not good. I ran 12.7 detroits before, and always had good fuel mileage. The EGR setup in the 14 ltrs hinder the fuel economy in this truck. If I could do it over again, I would have bought something with another 12.7 in it, and rebuilt it if need be.
If there is a discrepancy with the odometer and the ECM, chances are the ECM has been replaced for some reason or another.
As far as the KW, I have no relative experience with that model truck, so I can't really make any useful comments.
With OOIDA, you can get enrolled in their alcohol/drug testing consortium ($100 year maybe?), and BOC-3 for free. I know alot of people have issues with OOIDA, but they do have some useful services for the annual membership fee.
As far as me working as an independent O/Op, I love it. Like others have said, there is responsibilty involved, but to me, it is worth it. I have been home since right before Christmas. Nobody calling me, wanting their trailer, or telling me I have to turn in my truck, or threatening me because I am not out on the road. I watch the weather, and am looking at all this artic temps all over the country, and its up to me whether I want to be in it or not (NOT, I'd rather be out in the woods, hunting, coming home where its warm at night) As I have said before, and its only my opinion, but I havent found anybody out there worth working for. So I work for myself, the buck stops with me. If I wind up broke or prosperous, its all up to me.

 

CRST has the worst equipment on the roads hands down. You couldn't give me anything of theirs.

as stated the 14L doesn't get great fuel mileage. my 05 columbia running 80k at 70mph is getting about 5mpg

 

Given the speed and weight I'd say nothing wrong with that mpg. Give yourself a huge pay raise and slow down to 60 mph.. that is if you own the truck.