Aug 29, 2012 11:03 AM

For fleets and owner-operators wanting to make old trucks  new again, Kenworth is offering glider kits for the T660, T800 (split fender  configuration), and W900L models. All sleeper sizes are available. The gliders  are designed to be mated with customer-supplied EPA 2004 engines and matching  transmissions, and the gliders can be spec’d from Kenworth to best meet the  fleet or driver application.

  Kenworth glider models feature the latest amenities and  updates in each of the three models. The truck model year of the glider will be  determined by the donor chassis, as long as two of the three major powertrain  components (engine, transmission, and drive axle) are used from the donor  chassis.

  “There are several other engine-related components—such  as electrical harnesses, power steering pumps, batteries, and air cleaners—that  customers need to supply themselves or purchase from Paccar Parts through their  local Kenworth dealerships, but for the truck itself, it’s a very complete  package,” said Alan Fennimore, Kenworth vocational marketing manager.

  “We’re offering the gliders as both rolling and  non-rolling models (customer supplies driveline, axles, suspensions, wheels,  tires and other rolling equipment), and no FET (federal excise tax) is included  from Kenworth,” said Fennimore. “Depending upon the project’s final cost, and  if the host parts came from a useable truck, the 12% FET on new trucks may not  be applicable.”

  Generally, FET will apply when a glider kit is used to  repair a decommissioned (wrecked) vehicle, or change its intended service (for  example, tractor to a full truck), or where the restoration cost exceeds 75% of  the value.