I'm looking at buying a Kenworth W900L. It's my dream truck. My Cascadia has done an excellent job over the last 3.5 years but it's time for an upgrade. Looking at models with Cummins engines, 15-18 speed, studio sleeper, etc.
I know these trucks are the flagships of trucks. I've driven one in the past. I'd like to know for those of you who own and drive one what your likes and dislikes are, durability, and chronic problems with the truck or Cummins motor.
Thanks ahead for your feedback
KW W900L Owners - I have a question...
Discussion in 'Ask An Owner Operator' started by jakebrake58, Feb 3, 2023.
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I have an 09 and not much to complain about. Lots of room under the hood to work on stuff. I love my truck. If I had one complaint I wish I had the arm rests that fold behind the seat. I'm not even fat but still have to shuffle sideways to get through. Mine rides great, looks great, and is a joy to drive. No issues, just routine maintenance. You'll love it. Little bit of fuel economy loss for you but to some that's not even an issue. I hope you find exactly what you're looking for.
Rideandrepair, jakebrake58, Siinman and 2 others Thank this. -
I do not have a Kenworth but I've spent some time in them and they're very well made trucks.
I don't know if any truck you're looking at would have this but I did not like at all the eight bag air ride. The reason I don't care for that is because not only are there eight bags but there are multiple points for bushings and it's an overly complicated system that's more work and more expense to repair.
When you compare that to something very simple like the Freightliner air ride you'll see what I mean.
I have no idea what their air suspension is like nowadays but I would suggest finding a model that has something similar to the idea and simplicity of how Freightliner is set up, if KW offers such a thing.
But again I truly think it's a very well made truck, certainly way way better than that crazy overpriced junk Peterbilt 100% for sure.Rideandrepair, TheLoadOut and Siinman Thank this. -
Yeah I have a w900 and realize everything cant be perfect. Ive got a 2016 w/ a Detroit 12.7 in mine so plenty of room to work on mine under the hood. The arm rest thing is annoying. I hate when I start driving at forget about putting it back up before I start.....
Before this truck ive always had freightliners, Century and Columbia. Compared to those, this truck is real tight. Not alot of stuff jiggling on the dash while going down the road. Its air tight, I have to put my window down a bit if I want to close the door with ease.Rideandrepair, TheLoadOut, Siinman and 1 other person Thank this. -
The narrow cab is going to be a big change for you ……
Rideandrepair Thanks this. -
I’ve owned a Cascadia, T680, W900, and a 379.
I would buy a pre-2000 W900 or 379 before anything. However I would not buy a newer hood truck like the W900. The fact is the fuel mileage is just too much. If you run over100,000 miles a year and the difference of 1mpg can save/cost you well over $9k.
If you run flatbed then fuel mileage won’t be as severe as a dry van.Rideandrepair Thanks this. -
If you've driven a W900L before you know the turning radius isn't really great, that's the only complaint I had with mine.
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They even build 15 speeds anymore? Kinda antiquated and just a glorified 10 speed anyways.
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