Kenworth Truck's T370 Class 7 model is getting interior upgrades and a heavier front-axle option, while all three of its T300 series midrange models get new interior trim and optional multiplexed wiring systems.

The company also announced its midrange engine lineup and redesigned packaging for hybrid trucks and tractors.

A newly available 16,000-pound-capacity Dana front axle with single- or dual-steering gear answers requests from T370 users who need to put more weight on their trucks' steer axles, said Judy McTeague, KW's medium-duty marketing manager. These are primarily fuel-oil dealers who run delivery trucks, though other customers will also find the heavier axle useful.

The new multiplex instrumentation system, which can be ordered on all T170, T270 and T370 models with 2010 engines, provides increased serviceability and reliability, McTeague said. Wiring behind the dash is color-coded and numbered for easier servicing, and critical connections maintained with positive locking connectors. The system is supported by the Kenworth Electronic Service Analyst, a computer-based diagnostics tool which simplifies troubleshooting.

New Dash, Too

The multiplex system is incorporated into a more handsome and ergonomic dashboard. A new speedometer and tachometer have large, 2-inch diameter gauges with chrome bezels, an engine hour meter, odometer, trip odometer, and outside temperature gauge. A diesel particulate filter (DPF) status indicator lamp, high exhaust system temperature (HEST) warning lamp, and seatbelt reminder light are included. LED back-lighting is used in the face plate and pointers, and the dash rocker switches contain LED indicator lights.

The Kenworth Driver Information Center provides instant trip access information for miles per gallon, engine and idle hours, idle percentage and optimum rpm range. A "sweet spot indicator" offers visual cues when the optimum rpm is reached, while a bar graph displays current mpg against trip average mpg.

The standard medium-duty dash panels are a high quality, gray cross-weave, vinyl with silver and black accents, McTeague said. The door trim insert and louver trim remain black. Available as an option are dash panels which feature a beautiful Trust Walnut colored woodgrain on the main dash panels as well as on the door trim insert and louver trim.

PX-6 and -8 Engines

2010 Paccar PX-6 and Paccar PX-8 engines with selective catalytic reduction are both available in T270 Class 6 and T370 Class 7 models, while the Class 5 T170 uses only the PX-6. Class 5 vehicle is available with the 2010 Paccar PX-6. Both engines are made by Cummins.

PX-6 ratings are 200 to 325 horsepower with torque from 520 to 750 pounds-feet, while the PX-8 goes from 260 to 350 horsepower and 660 to 1,000 pounds-feet. Both engines now use a high-pressure common rail fuel injection system, improved cooled exhaust-gas recirculation, and a patented variable geometry turbocharger.

Kenworth offers three diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tank options for its medium-duty trucks. Useable DEF capacities are 6.6, 9 and 18 gallons which are pared with fuel capacities of 110, 150 and 300 gallons, respectively. Four exhaust options - right-hand (passenger) side under the cab, horizontal, horizontal in-series, and vertical independent - are available. These provide a "clear" back-of-cab for easy mounting of bulky bodies.

Hybrid Packaging

Kenworth has placed all its hybrid components, including the starter batteries, chassis load center, cooling package and a new inverter, into one battery box located underneath and to the rear of the cab on the driver's side. The Eaton diesel-electric drive system is located on the left frame rail forward of the rear axle. Kenworth also offers 9-foot long high-voltage cables which allow body builders to relocate the power system to maximize frame rail space. These locations help provide easy access and the best set of options for customer frame requirements.

The new inverter offers improved DC/DC cable clearance which is especially useful for utility customers, enhanced power distribution center with easy access to fuses that are now closer to the power source, and improved access and cable pass-through. Kenworth offers a body builder power distribution module and puts it aft of the battery box. This module provides dedicated body builder battery power and ground.