Kenworth to offer Cummins ISL engines

Kenworth Truck Co. has announced that it will offer Cummins ISL engines as original equipment for its trucks. Kenworth is offering the 8.9-liter engine in ratings of 310 to 350 hp and 1,050 to 1,250 ft.-lb. torque. "The Cummins ISL is an excellent engine that is expected to be popular in Kenworth's short hood T800 and W900S models for vocational and pick-up and delivery applications," said Steve Gilligan, Kenworth's general marketing manager. "With a 500-lb. weight savings over competitive engines, it's also a great engine for companies that gross out in weight." According to Tom Kieffer, Cummins executive director for marketing, the Cummins ISL is up to 37% quieter than the previous ISL engine. The quieter operation is due to pilot fuel injection and a revised gear cover, he said. Cummins added that performance and reliability have been enhanced through the use of a new High Pressure Common Rail fuel system with electronically controlled injectors. High injection fuel pressures are maintained regardless of engine speed for optimum performance across the entire rpm range, the engine maker said. Designed with 24-valve centered fuel injection, Cummins said the ISL offers optimum combustion. The result is improved performance, increased efficiency and less noise, with reduced emissions.