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May 16 25

Financing a Truck with Bad or No Credit

by Tyler Williams

At Coopersburg & Liberty Kenworth, we offer credit-based financing on all of our trucks for sale. No matter the make, model, or year, any type of commercial truck can be costly. So much so that few people can afford to buy them with cash outright.

Where it can get tricky is when people come in to make a purchase, but their credit is… not so good. If you don’t have the money to purchase a truck in full or the credit to secure a commercial vehicle loan, we have a few tips on how to finance with less-than-perfect credit.

Financing with Poor Credit

First-Time Buyers or Borrowers

If you’re a first-time buyer, borrower, or have little credit history, start with building credit. You can build with anything that contributes positively to your credit score, such as credit cards, loans, and mortgages. If you don’t have a credit card, consider getting one for the sole purpose of building credit. Making small purchases and paying the balance in full each month will help to build your credit history. If you already have credit accounts, use them responsibly by keeping balances low and making on-time payments. Paying your bills on time is crucial. Late payments can severely damage your credit. This can be a gradual process, so stay consistent and you will see progress.

Clean Up Your Credit

Start by getting a free copy of your credit report. Look for any inaccuracies, such as incorrect account balances, accounts that aren’t yours, duplicate entries, as well as any errors that can be resolved quickly by the credit bureau. Avoid applying for too much new credit in a short period. Each application results in a hard inquiry, which can lower your score.

Reduce Debt

Focus on paying off credit cards and loans. Start with the highest interest rates or smallest balances. Paying off debts with the highest interest rates saves you money in the long run, since you will lower the accrued interest. Paying off the smallest balances minimize the total interest paid over time. The longer you carry loans, the more you’ll owe. While reducing payments and debts, it is important to try and avoid accumulating new balances.

Consider Collateral

Collateral is an asset that a borrower offers to a lender to secure a loan. It is a form of protection for the lender in case the borrower defaults on the loan. Typically, the lender requires the truck to be used as collateral when taking out a loan to purchase that truck. This means that if you fail to make your loan payments, the lender has the right to repossess it.

Take Advantage of Trade-Ins

Another option to reduce the overall amount of the loan is by trading in a vehicle. At Coopersburg & Liberty Kenworth, we’re happy to accept nearly any running, street-legal truck as a trade-in. It doesn’t have to be a Kenworth! We offer a wide selection of used trucks from various brands. Contact us or fill out our Trade-In form for more details.

Talk to an Expert

Our Financing Department is experienced in helping you find the perfect truck that fits your budget. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade your fleet, we understand that financing is crucial in the decision-making process.

There’s no better source for financing advice than our Finance Manager, who is dedicated to working with all of our customers to explore all available options tailored to each individual’s needs. We offer a variety of financing solutions to ensure you get the most affordable deal possible. Plus, our team can assist you with credit challenges to help you navigate the process. Contact us or fill out our Financing Form to explore our financing options.

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May 15 25

Heavy-Duty Grease Types for Kenworth Trucks

by Tyler Williams
Heavy-Duty Grease for Kenworth Trucks

Proper lubrication is essential for keeping your Kenworth truck running at its best. In the trucking industry, choosing the right type of grease can make all the difference. That said, there is no single heavy-duty grease that is right for every application. With so many options available, how do you know which grease is best for your Kenworth truck?

Understanding Heavy-Duty Grease

Grease is a semi-solid lubricant specially formulated to reduce friction, prevent wear and tear, as well as corrosion. It also serves as a barrier against dirt, dust, and moisture. In commercial trucks, grease is vital for maintaining parts like wheel bearings, chassis joints, fifth wheels, and U-joints.

The grease you choose for your truck should be based on the specific needs of each component, considering factors like temperature, pressure, moisture, and compatibility with preexisting lubricants.

Types of Grease for Trucks

Selecting the right type of grease depends on your specific application as well as the environmental conditions your truck is most exposed to.

Lithium grease is the most versatile, offering excellent wear and water resistance, as well as the ability to withstand high pressure and shock loads.

Calcium grease is best for components exposed to moisture and humidity due to its superior water resistance, although it is less effective at high temperatures.

Synthetic grease is typically made from polyurea. This type is known for its oxidation resistance and thermal stability, making it perfect for high-temperature applications and long-lasting lubrication.

Other types of grease include: molybdenum grease, designed for heavy load components that reduces friction and wear under extreme pressure; aluminum complex grease, known for high temperature and water resistance; bentonite clay grease, which is non-melting and ideal for high-temperature bearings.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Grease

Several factors should influence your choice of grease:

Operating temperature is crucial. High-temperature resistant grease is necessary for your engine’s components and wheel bearings, whereas grease that maintains consistency at low temperatures is better for cold climates.

Environmental conditions play a significant role. In wet or muddy conditions, choose a water-resistant lithium or calcium-based grease. For dusty or dirty environments, choose a grease with good sealing properties to prevent contamination.

The load and pressure requirements of your truck’s mechanical components are just as important. Heavy-duty parts, like fifth wheels and U-joints, require a moly or high-performance lithium grease. Always check for compatibility. Mixing incompatible greases can lead to poor lubrication and, in worse cases, component failure.

Choosing the Right Truck Grease

Choosing the right grease for your truck is important for the longevity and performance of your Kenworth. With proper lubrication, you can extend your truck’s lifespan and ensure a smooth, reliable journey.

Looking for the best grease for your truck? Visit our Coopersburg & Liberty Kenworth and TRP Pottstown parts shops! Our team is always here to help you choose the best products as well as provide maintenance tips to keep your truck on the road.

Educate yourself on which grease to use for commercial trucks in our blog.

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May 13 25

Kenworth L770 & L770E: New Class 8 Vocational Trucks

by Tyler Williams
New Kenworth L770 / L770E Refuse Trucks
Photo Courtesy of Kenworth.com

At the May 6 WasteExpo in Las Vegas, Kenworth announced their newest lineup of Class 8 vocational trucks: the Kenworth L770 and the zero-emission L770E. These are Kenworth’s first vocational low-cab forward trucks, built to dominate in refuse and other specialized vocational applications such as concrete pumping, crane, and more. Both models are now available for order in the United States and Canada.

Kevin Haywood, Kenworth’s assistant general manager for sales and marketing, said, “The introduction of our new L770 and battery-electric L770E expands Kenworth’s vocational lineup with purpose-driven solutions for demanding urban applications like commercial and residential waste management. Whether a fleet is focused on enhancing its diesel or CNG capabilities, or taking the first step toward zero-emissions, Kenworth now offers tailored options to meet the needs of our customers operating in these specialized industries.”

Kenworth L770 and L770E

The L770 and L770E feature a corrosion-resistant galvanized steel cab frame with aluminum panels for added strength. Their 90-degree door openings provide easy entry and exit. Up front, a stainless steel grille not only adds durability but showcases their signature Kenworth appearance — making these trucks ideal for any type of vocational job. Multiple cab configurations give fleets the flexibility to meet a wide range of specific operational demands. Configurations include Left-Hand Drive, Right-Hand Drive, Dual Seated Drive, and Dual Drive with Right-Hand Stand-Up

Both models use the same electrical architecture found in Kenworth’s heavy-duty vocational trucks like the T880. This provides fleet-wide consistency and simplifies integration with aftermarket equipment. Pre-configured frame layouts are available for a variety of refuse body types, including front loaders, automated side-loaders, and rear loaders. This helps streamline the upfit process and minimize downtime.

L770 Trucks

According to Kenworth, the L770 “offers a variety of powertrain options, including PACCAR’s MX-11 engine, with ratings up to 445 horsepower and 1,700 lb.-ft. of torque and the PACCAR PX-9 engine with ratings up to 380 hp and 1,250 lb.-ft. of torque.” (Source) Fleets looking for alternative fuel options can choose between three natural gas-powered engine options. The Cummins X15N, which delivers up to 500 horsepower and 1,850 lb.-ft. of torque. The Cummins ISX12N, which offers up to 400 horsepower and 1,450 lb.-ft. of torque. Lastly, the lightweight Cummins L9N delivers up to 320 horsepower and 1,000 lb.-ft. of torque.

L770E Trucks

The battery-electric L770E “is powered by Meritor’s eAxle powertrain that delivers 536 hp continuous power and up to 670 hp peak with 1,623 lb.-ft. of torque. The drivetrain is supported by a 350 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery system, enabling up to 1,100 automated side loader bin cycles or 130 rear loader compactor cycles per charge.” (Source)

Regenerative braking captures energy during deceleration. This makes the L770E ideal for the stop-and-go duty cycles that are typical in refuse jobs. With DC fast charging at 125 kW, the L770E can fully recharge in approximately 3.5 hours. It also has an optional AC charging setup. Additionally, it offers up to 120 miles of range, depending on the configuration.

Get the Kenworth L770 and L770E

Interested in the diesel-powered Kenworth L770? How about the fully electric L770E? Our team is here to help you learn more about these vocations specs, configurations, and ordering process. Contact us for more information or to order your next refuse truck with Coopersburg & Liberty Kenworth today.

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May 1 25

2025 CVSA Roadcheck Inspection Checklist

by Tyler Williams
2025 Roadcheck Checklist

Need help preparing for the 2025 CVSA International Roadcheck? This annual inspection is one of the biggest safety enforcement events for commercial vehicles across North America. Inspectors will examine trucks and drivers for compliance with key regulations. Their focus will be on common violations that could lead to fines or out-of-service orders. To help you stay ahead, we’ve put together a checklist covering the most critical inspection areas.

Inspection Checklist

Inspect the following areas for any signs of irregularities or damage before starting your trip:

Tire Inspection

  • Check tread depth and replace tires if they’re below the minimum legal limit
  • Listen for audible air leaks around tires and valves
  • Look for any flat tires and replace as needed
  • Inspect tread and sidewalls for exposed belt material or casing ply
  • Check for any tread or sidewall separation that could lead to a blowout
  • Watch for sidewall bulges, a sign of internal tire damage
  • Make sure there are no improper tire repairs, like rubber-coated plugs
  • Remove any debris caught between dual tires

False Records of Duty Status (RODS) Compliance

  • Make sure your ELD is properly connected and working
  • Confirm all driving time is logged accurately under the correct driver
  • Never drive while logged out of the ELD system
  • Avoid “ghost driver” violations by only listing actual co-drivers
  • Use personal conveyance only when it’s truly allowed
  • Apply the adverse driving conditions exception correctly
  • Log all on- and off-duty time accurately
  • Keep all supporting documents organized and ready to view

General Inspection Preparation

  • Complete a pre-trip inspection every day
  • Keep all maintenance records updated and easy to access
  • Fix any mechanical issues with brakes, lights, steering, or coupling devices before driving
  • Make sure your medical certificate, CDL, and registration paperwork are current and available
  • Stay informed about CVSA inspection procedures and the most common violation areas

Roadcheck Focus Areas provided by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance.

How to Stay Compliant on the Road

Staying compliant starts with a few key habits: pre-trip inspections and maintaining accurate records. Check your tires, brakes, lights, and coupling devices so you can catch any issues before they become larger problems. Make sure your electronic logging device (ELD) is working properly and fully updated. Accurately log your hours in real time, and be cautious with personal conveyance and exemption rules so you’re not accidentally breaking any regulations.

Inspectors will perform a thorough 37-step examination that covers both driver operating requirements and vehicle mechanical condition. Remember: inspectors will not just review your current day’s records, but also the previous seven days of logs.

Keeping organized, up-to-date with maintenance, and following CVSA guidelines will help you avoid common violations and keep you on the road.

For more CVSA topics, read these blogs.

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May 1 25

CVSA International Roadcheck: May 2025

by Tyler Williams
2025 International Roadcheck

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance has scheduled its International Roadcheck for May 13-15 with a focus on tires and hours-of-service.

International Roadcheck

The International Roadcheck is an annual three day event organized to enforce motor carrier, vehicle and driver safety. Each year, the Roadcheck focuses on a different driver violation and vehicle violation category.

Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) inspectors across North America will conduct inspections at temporary spots like weigh stations, inspection sites, and through on-road patrols. Their goal is to ensure compliance with road regulations and improve roadway safety across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

This year, inspectors will focus on tire safety and compliance with hours-of-service regulations.

Tire Inspection

Proper tire maintenance is important for both safety and efficiency. A tire failure on the road poses a serious hazard to you and other drivers. Additionally, it can lead to costly delays and expensive repairs for motor carriers. Inspectors will check for proper inflation, tread depth, sidewall damage, and signs of excessive wear. These are all common tire violations that frequently result in vehicles being placed out of service. To stay compliant, drivers should perform thorough pre-trip inspections, monitor tire pressure daily, and replace worn or damaged tires before they become a problem. Failing to meet tire safety standards can lead to significant penalties as well as downtime.

False Records of Duty Status (RODS)

Hours-of-service (HOS) regulations are in place to limit driving time and enforce rest breaks to prevent fatigue among commercial drivers. However, these rules are only effective if drivers accurately log their hours and duty status in their Record of Duty Status (RODS). During the Roadcheck, inspectors will carefully review drivers’ logs to ensure compliance, paying close attention to electronic logging device (ELD) records. Common violations include exceeding drive-time limits, incorrect duty status changes, missing log entries, or malfunctioning ELDs. Failure to comply can result in out-of-service orders and fines. To avoid violations, drivers should routinely review their logs and ensure their ELD is functioning correctly to optimize their hours while staying compliant.

Reminder: Stay Safe

The International Roadcheck is a great reminder for commercial vehicle drivers to make sure their trucks meet safety regulations. It’s one of the best ways to reduce the risk of accidents and keep transportation safer for everyone on the road.

Need help preparing for the 2025 CVSA International Roadcheck? To help you stay ahead, we’ve put together a checklist covering the most critical inspection areas.

Learn more about the CVSA’s 2025 International Roadcheck, here.

For more CVSA topics, read these blogs.

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