Kenworth Cabover Options Open the Door for New Applications, Body Types

Wed November 26, 2014
Truck and Trailer Guide

Kenworth has three new options for its medium duty cabovers that open the door for even more diverse customer applications and body customization, according to the manufacturer.

The new options for the Kenworth K270 and K370 cabovers include a compact back-of-cab exhaust system to allow more space for custom bodies; right-side steer for street sweeping, refuse and road maintenance applications; and expanded PACCAR PX-7 engine ratings.

Kenworth’s clear frame rail package, introduced earlier this year, has been improved and provides nearly 12 more inches (30.5 cm) of space for body installations. The clear frame rail package and exhaust package gives body builders even more room for customization. It frees up frame space back-of-cab and allows body builders flexibility with their components.

“The result is that Kenworth cabover applications have been extended — literally. This combination also allows for additional transmission PTO clearance, which is a plus, especially for construction applications,” said Kurt Swihart, Kenworth marketing director.

The K270 and K370 cabovers can now be specified with the PACCAR PX-7 engine at a new top rating of 260 hp and 660 lb.-ft. of torque, in addition to a new 200 hp and 520 lb.-ft. of torque rating. The standard engine rating is 220 hp with 520 lb.-ft. of torque, mated with an Allison 5-speed transmission.

“More choices for engine ratings means fine-tuning the Kenworth cabovers to a customer’s specific application,” said Swihart. “These are work trucks and the more we offer, the higher the degree of customization we can provide.”

Compared to a typical medium duty conventional, the K270 and K370 offer up to a 30 percent improvement in curb-to-curb turning, while a 63.4-in. (161 cm) BBC provides an extra 45 in. (114 cm) of payload room.

The Kenworth K270 and K370 come with 22.5-in. (57 cm) tire and wheel packages. Kenworth also recently announced a 19.5-in. (49.5 cm) tire and wheel option for the K270 for easier curbside pick-up and delivery.

Both truck models offer a standard air-ride driver’s seat and 2-person bench seating with storage underneath, with the single-seat option now also available. Wheelbases range from 142 to 242 in. (360.6 to 614.6 cm) in 12-in. (30.5 cm) increments, and Kenworth cabovers can accommodate bodies from 16 to 28 ft. (4.8 to 8.5 m). A large 2,500-sq.-in. (16,129 sq cm) wraparound windshield combines with large side windows to give optimum visibility.

“We continue to evolve our Kenworth K270 and K370 cabovers to serve new applications as these models gain customer recognition in the marketplace. There is almost no job these cabovers can’t do,” said Swihart.

For more information, visit www.kenworth.com.