May 2010 OLD TIME TRUCKS
CLASSIC KW IS
ONE-OWNER TRUCK
By Old Truck Nuts John & Shirley Sponholtz
This 1978 Kenworth W900A is a one-owner, one-driver truck. Owned by Bart Gilreath of Bedford, Iowa, it was ordered new from the Omaha, Nebraska Kenworth dealer. The truck is powered by a 400 B-model Caterpillar engine backed by a Fuller 140613 transmission and Eaton 3.70 rear ends. The Kenworth has been used to haul steel, grain and dry freight. Over the past 20 years, it has been running from Omaha, Nebraska to South Texas, hauling meat products down and bringing produce back to central Iowa. If you are driving in that area you might spot the truck on the highway, as it averages 40 trips a year. During its career, the Kenworth has changed a little. Over the years, Bart has updated the engine, transmission and rear ends. He also installed a Peterbilt air-ride suspension, lengthened the frame, and customized the hood. Bart and his wife Connie enjoy taking the truck to shows when it is not hard at work. For more weird and wild old time trucks, visit www.oldtimetrucks.org.