Kenworth has added two new frame packaging options for fuel tank mounting on the T270 and T370 trucks.

The new packaging options include fuel tanks mounted between the frame rails behind the rear axle as well as a narrower battery box. The new options are part of Kenworth’s Medium Duty Body Builder Expansion program that opens up more frame packaging options for medium-duty customers with complex body installations.

The narrow battery box and new fuel tanks can be ordered separately but are designed to be used together, according to Kenworth.

This customizability could help with trucks made for utilities, fire, street maintenance, towing and other applications. It could also reduce the amount of work a custom body builder would have to do, reducing the cost of installation.

“By choosing these two new options together, special application customers and their body builders will find it much easier to install custom bodies, equipment and apparatus on the Class 6 Kenworth T270 chassis and the Class 7 Kenworth T370 chassis,” said Kurt Swihart, Kenworth marketing director. “That’s great news for our customers as the new frame packaging options created by the body builder expansion program can help reduce installation time.”

The smaller battery box is 6-inches narrower than the standard box. Its size frees up space on the left-hand side for body installations and for a small DEF tank to be mounted under the cab. With the narrower battery box, the air tanks are now located on the back of the cab rather than in the standard position below the battery box.

A matching narrow tool box is also available for the right side of the T270 and T370 and can be combined with a fuel tank pulled forward to lessen the effect on the back of the cab. When equipped with the narrower tool box, the DEF tank is mounted behind it.

The new rectangular fuel tanks, mounted between the frame rails behind the rear axle, are available in 45- and 70-gallon capacities. The tanks feature temporary fuel fillers which body builders can relocate to accommodate various bodies and equipment. The tanks can also be equipped with auxiliary supply tubes for customers who need it. The tanks can also be used without frame inserts because they are supported by welded steel cross members.