In my constant quest for the best classic truck I can find (short of finding my old 1971 W900) I have acquired a really amazing piece of history. They're only original once and finding a work horse like this which has been so carefully maintained but rarely used is a real thrill!
It's a 1980 W900 which was stored for the last 30+ years in a climate controlled (AC too) hangar. The second owner lovingly cared for this truck as if it were a multi-million dollar Bugatti. She wears her original cab paint, has less than 95k original two owner miles, looks and feels like it is only a couple years old if not new. It really is a trip down memory lane for me. And it is my desire to share the experience with as many people as I can. Here are the spec details. I will post some pictured later today if you all want to see them.
Sold new as a fifth wheel tandem axle, she currently has an 8 ton crane and flatbed installed. Strongly considering to take those off and either return it to a fifth wheel or install a high grade roll back since it has an extended frame modification. Would be a great antique farm tractor hauler.
1980 W900 serial # 180905
* Build date 11-1979
* Walking beam susp.
* Detroit 8V-92 TA A90 435 hp with Jakes
* RTO 12515
* SSHD 44k rears
* 4.63 gears
* Converted to 11.24.5 wheels and tires 10 years ago when the crane was installed
Only other modification is a 2005 model Kenworth air ride driver's seat. The original seat was moved to the passenger side and the air tank under the platform seat was then moved under the frame rail. PTO added as well. Not sure what method they used to stretch the frame then but it is double from the cab back. The mechanic said the truck never had any other steps or fuel tanks from new. I presume it may have been a very short original wheelbase. Anyone know if I can or who to contact at Kenworth to research the original line set sheet to see how she was built?
I am a buyer for anything circa 1980 Kenworth also. Brochures, books, support items like original tow hooks and pins or anything else they came new with. In 1976 my family bought two new daycab W900 trucks which had some of those things.
Enjoy! When is the next Florida gathering?