First new truck, need some input.

I've pretty much narrowed down my first truck to either a KW T680 or a Int Lonestar, leaning towards KW.
I'm hoping to find some thoughts on Cummins vs. the Paccar in the KW besides having to stick with KW dealers for any issues with the Paccar.
Also are there any advantages by going with an 18 spd over a 13 spd?

 

My understanding is that Lonestar's are heavy, especially on the steers. I would go with a Cummins for serviceability, more Cummins then Paccar dealers. Unless you are going to pull heavy, the 13 is the way to go IMO, the difference is the ability to split the lower gears.

 

Go with the 18. You can always drive it like a 13. It will help the resale value for those looking to haul heavy or at least give you a bigger buying audience. I will not even look at a truck unless it has an 18 in it. Even at 80k being able to split the lower gears when starting out going up a steep hill is awesome. As for the motor, go with the Cummins.

 

have you considered a glider kit.... just askin

 

And it's also heavier and cost more to rebuild if you have problems unless your offroad or pulling heavy I don't see a point in a 18speed

 

For normal highway work, I think a 13 is just fine.Cummins is my preferred power provider.Hard to beat a K-Whopper.

 

With my 3.36 rears, I'd love to be able to split the bottom side when heavy and starting on hills. Tranny's typically come with a 750,000 mile warranty, so buying new, I'd think that $1,000 difference in rebuild price isn't really a factor, especially with the trade in value at least double that, and more likely about a $4,000 premium. Weight is negligible, according to Eaton, the 18 weighs 2 pounds more than a 13speed. 2 pounds!!!!
http://www.roadranger.com/ecm/group...er/documents/content/rr_rrsl-0001.pdf#page=16

 

I think I would have to agree. 18 can be shifted like a 13, and like you said. Come resale time, I'm of the opinion, its looks better have and not need, then to need and not have.

I ran 18 speed in a T660 pulling reefer and cant ever remember splitting the low end ever. As a buyer doing flatbed work, even though I may never need it, 2 trucks all being equal except one with a 13 and the other an 18, I'd buy the 18 just because.

Hurst

 

Getting it to split heavy at 80k going up the hill on low range is something your engine will thank you for in the long run.

 

Don't rule out freightliners, not the prettiest truck but they are getting the best mpg on average, even one a few years old. I've owned almost every brand except peterbilt, but I'm back in a '15 evolution freightshaker now, for the mpg, and better warranty than most other brands, for now.