Fleets that require vocational vehicles know the importance of a capable, well-appointed, easily configurable, and easily serviceable truck. But, what might work for one vocational fleet could vastly decrease productivity and profitability for one fleet and vice versa. Those looking for a heavy-duty truck to custom build per their exact specifications, consider the Kenworth T880.
POWER OF T880
Kenworth offers the PACCAR MX-13 and PACCAR MX-11 engines in the T880. The MX-13 pumps out up to 510 hp and 1,850 lb-ft of torque. The MX-11 delivers up to 430 hp and 1,650 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are designed to be highly durable for rugged, vocational applications. Transmission options to pair with the engines include PACCAR automated transmissions, Eaton UltraShift Plus automated transmissions, Fuller manual transmissions, Allison automatic transmissions, and even more options to fit a fleet’s specific need.
CONFIGURATIONS
The Kenworth T880 is offered in different configurations based on the needs of individual fleets. Customers can choose a Kenworth T880 with an MX optimized hood, a standard hood, or a T880S with a set-forward front axle.
The T880 MX optimized hood configuration features improved maneuverability with optimized weight distribution and a more flexible platform for truck body mounting. The configuration suits applications such as dump, vacuum, refuse, tanker, bulk haul, and ready-mix. The standard T880 set-back front axle configuration is great for applications such as dump, heavy haul, logging, and wrecker and recovery. Finally the set-forward front axle T880S is great for businesses that must comply with bridge laws. It’s a great foundation for ready-mix, dump, crane, and municipal applications.
The front suspension of the Kenworth T880 includes taper leaf springs, steering system integration, and air disc or drum brakes. Choose PACCAR 20,000 and 22,800 front axles or Meritor or Dana 12,000 to 23,000 axles. For the rear, Kenworth offers its Airglide suspension as well as Chalmers, Reyco, Hendrickson, and Neway mechanical and air suspension systems. Air disc or drum brakes are available for the rear.
At the core of the Kenworth T880 chassis are standard lightweight one-piece aluminum cross members. However, customers can choose a five-piece aluminum or steel bolted cross members that accommodate customizable bolting locations to meet truck body needs. Owners can also specify the type of bumper they prefer, be it a box bumper, center mounted, aluminum or steel, painted or polished chrome, or adding removable tow hook options.
CUSTOMIZE TO SUIT
Not only can the foundation of the Kenworth T880 be customized to a customer’s needs, but so can the cab, the body, and more. There are plenty of accessories and perks available with the truck.
The door to the cab is triple sealed against road noise and other elements, helping keep drivers in a more comfortable, less fatigued state. To improve costs on the jobsite, the T880’s headlamps, with complex reflector halogen lights, act as a project to illuminate any worksite projects. Additionally, the headlamps themselves feature a thick polycarbonate lens and UV inhibitor that ensures durability for years to come. Speaking of durability, the T880 features aerodynamic side mirrors that are cowl mounted for stability. They are also mounted in a position that improves rear visibility. What’s more, the convex mirror is 37% larger than Kenworth’s standard convex mirror design, further improving driver visibility.
JOB FOCUSED
Truck configurations and customizable options allow owners to build a truck specific for their application. But the options and configurations don’t stop at the frame and cab technology. Kenworth designed the T880 so that body builders can easily integrate auxiliary equipment. The brand uses a multiplexed electronic system that simplifies wiring on the chassis and behind the dash. New PTO functions are optimized with PACCAR MX engines. The T880 also features a standard CAN interface with 250kB and 500kB CAN communication location for body builder connection.
TRUCK TECH
Drivers of a Kenworth T880 will experience the Kenworth Driver Performance Center. The Driver Performance Center places real-time information within a glance of the driver. The information includes vehicle and safety systems, truck performance, and fuel tracking. It’s all displayed on a 5-inch high-resolution screen. The screen also uses pop-up alerts that help the driver as well as route comparisons and trip details.
In addition to the Kenworth Driver Performance Center, owners of a T880 have the option to add Kenworth NAV+ HD. NAV+ HD is an in-dash infotainment display that features Google Chrome, camera system integration, virtual gauges, advanced audio features, Bluetooth integration, and of course, on-board navigation.
ALL ABOUT UPTIME
Kenworth can keep up with all truck maintenance and service with Kenworth TruckTech+ Remote Diagnostics and Service Management. This system helps fleet managers, drivers, and dealers. TruckTech+ features remote diagnostic technology that helps solve problems—even before they are known. The system offers remote assistance with diagnostic repair and planning along with critical fault code analysis. Drivers and back-office personnel will also receive notifications of aftertreatment and engine fault information to help make decisions in real time. After the truck is back in the shop, PACCAR’s “diagnostic reasoning” helps technicians with diagnostics and fault guidance.
Additionally, Kenworth TruckTech+ Service Management system keeps tabs on scheduled and unscheduled maintenance events. This system organizes notes, time- and date-stamped activity, emails, and electronic approvals so fleet personnel can focus more on the task at hand. The system operates via internet, which makes it easy to access asset information and allows access across multiple platforms.
VOCATIONALLY DESIGNED
There are many different trucks on the market, but only a select few can be configured perfectly for certain businesses. With all the configurability and customizations available with the vocationally designed Kenworth T880, it might be worth taking the truck for a spin.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
The information from this article was taken from the Kenworth T880 brochure found on Kenworth’s website. Find out more, visit www.kenworth.com.
