When you ask a truckie what their favourite model of truck is, many of them will say the same thing — a Kenworth 909.
The ‘nine-oh’, as it’s often called, has an appeal that has lasted decades. But why is it such a favourite, amongst young and old alike? Let’s dive in.
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Evolution of the 909
In 1991, Kenworth’s new flagship model, the T900, rolled off the production line. Marketed as the “King of the Road” and loosely modeled on the old W-model that had stopped production in 1987, it quickly won fans for its classic style and resemblance to the American W900.
But the T900 wasn’t just a pretty face — it was a versatile model suited to everything from single-trailer to road train applications. Buyers could choose between a Caterpillar, Cummins or Detroit engine with horsepower ranging from 330 to 620, and the customisation options didn’t stop there, with a choice between a day cab and different sleepers.
In 1998, the T900 was renamed the T904 and given a new interior, more sleeper options and a taller bonnet.
Then in 2008, Kenworth gave the model another makeover, renaming it the T908. They changed the interior again, added a bigger radiator, and allowed customers to choose between new Caterpillar C15 ACERT and Cummins ISX engines with power up to 625hp.
Finally in 2010, the T909 was born. Early models came with Cummins ISX EGR or Signature EGR engines, with power up to 615hp. More interior changes and Eaton’s new automated Ultrashift Plus transmission were added to the list of options. By the time 2013 rolled around, T909s came with Cummins E5 engines, which is still the current engine spec.
Classic look
There’s no doubt about it – the long bonnet of the 909 and its siblings make it stand out on the highway. Built in Australia, to deliver in the harshest conditions, there’s something about the classic style of the nine-oh that strikes a chord with truckies of all ages.
All-rounder
The T909 is versatile enough to operate in almost any application, from logging or tipper work to livestock haulage, especially where fuel capacity and front axle weight are critical.
Available in 6×4 and 8×6 configurations, it’s designed to house a large radiator for cooling in even the most challenging environments.
Kenworth trucks offer customised wheelbases and frame layouts, and the frame layout can be optimised for maximum fuel capacity, durability and provision for auxiliary frame mounted equipment.
You can also choose from a variety of fuel tanks – whether you want polished aluminium to save on weight, or need steel for tougher jobs.
The T909 is powered by a Cummins X15 Euro 5 or Euro 6 engine, available in a range of horsepower and torque ratings up to 625 hp and 2050 lb-ft. The X15 features a suite of electronic features that interact with Eaton automated manual transmissions, adapting to operating conditions to save on fuel.
But if you prefer to keep it old-school, you can still go for manual transmission.
Customisable interior
The interior of the 909 is fully customisable, from the dash layout to the trim colours. For example, you could go for a Sandstone hard trim and Shiraz soft trim, or mix it up with a Charcoal hard trim and Mariner Blue soft trim.
If you’ve bought a 909 second-hand and you’re not fond of the dash layout, you can change it up with modular dash sections with radio, gauge, digital readout, or blank slots from spare parts.
Why truckies love the nine-oh
If you’ve ever been to a truck show, you’ll probably have seen your fair share of 909s, whether it’s a brand-new model or a lovingly restored retro rig.
Truckies Speak
We’ve interviewed many truckies who have brought nine-ohs back to life — as a purely creative project, to pay homage to a family member, or to keep the spirit of trucking history alive.
We thought we’d ask them what it is about the 909 that has captured their hearts – here’s what they said:
“My favourite truck is definitely the 909. I just like the look of it – it’s the big bonnet!” – James McBride, truck driver with Elite Cranes & Transport
“You can’t beat a 909 for its tough looks and comfort to drive. The customisation of all Kenworths, not just the 909, is second to none. The way the truck drives, it’s an absolute pleasure to be behind the wheel. The 900 series of trucks have been a popular sight on the roads, from the release of the 904, 908 and now the 909. It will be an upsetting time when the 909 is no longer manufactured! The trucks will undoubtedly go on being rebuilt and continue to be a huge part of the transport industry.” – Joshua Ulbrich, truck driver with Ross Transport
“In the trucking game, the bigger the better! The application of the 909 is outstanding. You sit high, and the length accommodates a smoother ride.” – Mathew Condren, former truck driver and truck artist
“I have driven a T909 for three years and have found it very comfortable. Being higher up, it gives me a better view of everything around me, and the dashboard is also very driver-friendly, as everything is at your fingertips. I drove a Mack Trident before this and it was quite loud and rough, but the 909 is very quiet in the cab.” – Troy Power, truck driver with Wild Quarries
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