American bonnet trucks are well known all over the world. Thanks to popular culture, they have become one of the symbols of the United States. One of the most popular models is the Kenworth W900. Specifications, history, features are discussed below.
Features
This car is represented by a class 8 tractor (penultimate, second class of heavy trucks) rated GVWR.
The manufacturer offers a very extensive selection of options for components and assemblies (frames, engines, suspensions), cabs and options, so you can create a personalized car.
Kenworth W900 served as the basis for the T600 truck. Introduced in 1986, the model has a much more aerodynamic design, due to which it has 22% better fuel efficiency. The machine did not become the successor to the W900 and was produced with it until 2007, when the T600 itself received a successor - the T660. In 2012, the T680 also appeared.
History
W900 has been in production since 1961. Moreover, it did not replace the previous models, but was produced for some time with them, borrowing many features. That is, the car has been manufactured for more than 55 years. At the same time, in modern cars, little is left of the first copies: during this time, the truck has undergone many updates: both structural and external.
The first cars are distinguished by external door handles located under the side windows, chrome handles on the radiator grill for tipping the hood, partition-style doors, fiberglass roof panel (the main difference from previous Kenworth models), large front and ventilation windows in the doors.
- In 1967, the letter A was added to the model index.
- In 1972, the locks were replaced with oar-style details.
- The following year, the emblem on the hood received three red stripes instead of four.
- In 1976, a higher cabin appeared for longer trips. In addition, they presented a more luxurious version of VIT, equipped by default with such exclusive equipment for those years as a double bed and a refrigerator, which were soon included in the list of usual options.
- In 1982, with the replacement of headlights with a rectangular car, it received index B. Compared to the W900A, landing on the chassis became higher. At the same time, the former Kenworth W900 continued to be produced in Mexico (Kenmex), but also with rectangular headlights.
- In 1987, the W900S was introduced. The model received a beveled hood to improve visibility.
- In 1989, the W900L appeared with an extended wheelbase of up to 3.3 m .
- In 1994, the T600 cab began to be used on the models of the line, distinguished primarily by a curved windshield, in contrast to the flat two-section of the W900. Initially, it was available only for the long version of Aerocab and as an option for Daycab. In 2006, such a cab began to be installed only on the W900S. At the same time, Aerocab and extended versions of Daycab were not equipped with a flat windshield. At the same time, curved glass was offered both in whole and in separate versions.
- In 1998, a modification of Studio Aerocab appeared.
- In 2014, the limited edition ICON900 was launched on the basis of the W900L in honor of the 25th anniversary of this version. It features a large number of chrome elements and special badges.
Frame and chassis
The manufacturer offers 4 options for a frame made of one steel and the same number of options with inserts.
15 wheelbase options are available (from 4.6 to 8.4 m). The width is 2.4 m for the body and 2.9 m for the mirrors. The track is 1.8-2.2 m.
The height of the front suspension when unloaded is 29.7–35.3 cm, and the rear - 21.6–39.9. The clearance is from 30.5 to 45.7 cm also without cargo.
There are three options for choosing fuel tanks with a diameter of 22, 24.5, 28.5 inches in volume from 142.2 to 670 liters.
Equipment
The most famous tractor is Kenworth W900. However, there are other versions equipped with folding bodies, concrete mixers and other equipment.
The list of options includes many functional devices: transmission components, towing hooks, etc.
In addition, the manufacturer offers many exterior design elements, such as polished fuel tanks, battery boxes for tools and tools, dual exhaust pipes, additional lighting fixtures, etc.
Cabin
The truck meets with several options for sleeping compartments.
Traditionally, it is characterized by a high level of comfort. So, the machine has fully adjustable orthopedic seats, a dashboard with many parameters and large convenient controls, two 12-volt sockets, many compartments for storing things, an extensive list of finishing options, etc.
Engine
Kenworth equips its American trucks with Paccar engines. They are represented by four series of 6-cylinder in-line turbodiesel engines. However, the initial PX-7 series is not used on the W900.
- PX-9. It includes 10 8.9 liters of engines with a capacity of 260 liters. from. and 720 Nm at 1300 rpm. up to 450 liters from. and 1250 Nm at 1400 rpm.
- MX-11. 10.8 liter engines in 6 variants. Develop 355 liters. from. and 1250 Nm at 1000 rpm - 430 liters. from. and 1550 Nm at 1000 rpm.
- MX-13. A series of 9 engines with a volume of 12.9 liters. Their performance is from 380 liters. from. and 1450 Nm at 1000 rpm. up to 500 liters from. and 1850 Nm at 1100 Nm.
In addition to them, on the Kenworth W900 there are Cummins, Caterpillar, Detroit Diesel engines .
Transmission
The car is equipped with 10-, 13- and 18-speed automatic transmissions. Meets with wheel formulas 4x2, 6x2, 6x4.
Chassis
Front suspension - Dana Spicer D2000 20K Standard Track with five leaf springs, rear - double or triple, represented by twenty major versions of designs, including models of the manufacturer, as well as Reyco, Chalmers, Hend, Hendrickson, Neway. Spring or spring-pneumatic designs are available.
The steering is equipped with a TAS 65 power steering.
The Kenworth W900 has 22.5-inch 425/65 wheels. They install tires Bridgestone M844F, R250F, M726EL.