2017 Kenworth W900 Fluid Type Specifications

Quick reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity (approximate)
Engine Oil	Varies by engine: API CK-4 / FA-4 (10W-30, 15W-40)	36-44 quarts
Engine Coolant	PACCAR OAT ELC (red/orange)	10-14 gallons
Transmission Fluid	Eaton PS-386 (manual), Allison TES-295 / TES-389 (auto)	Varies by transmission
Front Differential	Meritor O76-N (SAE 75W-90, 80W-90 synthetic)	11-13 quarts
Rear Differential	Meritor O76-N (SAE 75W-90, 80W-90 synthetic)	18-22 quarts (per axle)
Brake Fluid	N/A (air brake system)	N/A
Power Steering	Allison TES-295 / TES-389 or equivalent	10-12 quarts
Washer Fluid	Commercial-grade windshield washer fluid	1-3 gallons
DEF	ISO 22241 (API DEF certified)	10-20 gallons

---

The 2017 Kenworth W900, a legendary workhorse of the trucking industry, demands precise fluid specifications to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. As an ASE-certified master technician, I've compiled this comprehensive guide to all factory-spec fluids for your W900. Adhering to these specifications and recommended service intervals is crucial for reliable operation and to maintain your warranty.

Engine Oil

The Kenworth W900 in 2017 could be equipped with several engine options, primarily PACCAR MX-13, Cummins X15, or Cummins ISX15. The oil specification will largely depend on the specific engine. However, generally, modern heavy-duty diesel engines require oils meeting the API CK-4 or the newer API FA-4 classification. Always consult your specific engine's owner's manual for the precise recommendation.

• Type: Full synthetic or synthetic blend heavy-duty diesel engine oil.
• Viscosity: Common recommendations include SAE 10W-30 for improved fuel economy or SAE 15W-40 for wide operating temperature ranges and robust protection. The choice can also depend on ambient temperatures and engine manufacturer guidelines. Always verify the recommended viscosity for your specific engine and climate in your owner's manual.
• Manufacturer Spec: Refer to your engine's OEM manual (e.g., Cummins CES 20086 for CK-4 or CES 20087 for FA-4, or PACCAR's internal standards).
• Capacity: Engine oil capacities for these large diesel engines typically range from 36 to 44 quarts (9 to 11 gallons), depending on the engine model.
• Intervals: Oil change intervals can vary significantly based on engine, oil type, duty cycle, and oil analysis results. Modern engines with high-quality synthetic oils and proper filtration can often extend intervals to 50,000 miles or more, but always follow the manufacturer's recommended schedule and consider oil sampling for optimal maintenance.
• Pitfalls: Never mix different oil specifications or brands without verifying compatibility. Using an oil not approved by the engine manufacturer can lead to premature wear and void warranties. Ensure you use oils specifically designed for heavy-duty diesel engines, not passenger car oils.

Engine Coolant

For the 2017 Kenworth W900, the primary recommendation is an Extended Life Coolant (ELC).

• Type: PACCAR typically specifies a red/orange Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolant with a service life of up to 600,000 miles or 6 years. It should be nitrite-free, phosphate-free, and silicate-free. Common specifications include those meeting ASTM D6210.
• Capacity: Cooling system capacities generally range from 10 to 14 gallons, depending on the engine and cooling system configuration.
• Intervals: With an OAT ELC, the typical service interval is extended. However, it's critical to check the coolant level and condition regularly. Coolant filters (if equipped) should be serviced according to engine manufacturer guidelines.
• Pitfalls: Never mix OAT coolants with conventional (green) or Hybrid OAT (HOAT) coolants. This can lead to chemical incompatibilities, additive drop-out, gel formation, and severe damage to the cooling system, drastically reducing the coolant's service life and corrosion protection. Always use distilled water if mixing concentrate.

Transmission Fluid

The Kenworth W900 could be equipped with various transmissions, most commonly Eaton (manual or automated manual) or Allison (automatic).

• Manual/Automated Manual Transmissions (Eaton Fuller):

  • Type: Eaton typically recommends its proprietary Eaton PS-386 fluid, a synthetic transmission lubricant designed for extended drain intervals.
  • Viscosity: SAE 50 synthetic.
  • Capacity: Varies significantly by transmission model, but generally between 14 to 18 quarts.
  • Intervals: Extended drain intervals, often up to 500,000 miles or 5 years, under normal service conditions. Always refer to the specific Eaton transmission manual.
  • Pitfalls: Using conventional gear oil not meeting Eaton PS-386 can reduce efficiency, increase wear, and shorten transmission life. Never use passenger car ATF in these commercial manual transmissions.

• Automatic Transmissions (Allison):

  • Type: For Allison automatic transmissions, the recommended fluid is typically spec'd to Allison TES-295 or Allison TES-389 (for older models or specific applications). These are high-performance synthetic fluids.
  • Capacity: Varies widely by Allison model, from 18 to 44 quarts or more.
  • Intervals: Allison TES-295 fluids offer extended drain intervals, often 150,000 miles or 48 months in severe service, and longer in normal service. Always follow the Allison service schedule specific to your transmission model.
  • Pitfalls: Only use fluids explicitly licensed for Allison TES-295 or TES-389. "Universal" or generic ATFs do not meet these rigorous specifications and can lead to clutch pack wear, overheating, and transmission failure.

Front and Rear Differential Fluid

Kenworth W900 models are typically equipped with Meritor or Dana Spicer axles. The fluid specifications for these heavy-duty differentials are critical for bearing and gear life.

• Type: Heavy-duty synthetic gear lubricant meeting Meritor O76-N or Dana SHAES 256 (for Dana axles). These specifications generally call for a synthetic SAE 75W-90, 80W-90, or 80W-140 gear oil.
• Viscosity: SAE 75W-90 synthetic or SAE 80W-90 synthetic are common across many applications for improved fuel economy and cold weather performance. In severe service or hot climates, SAE 80W-140 synthetic may be recommended for increased protection. Always verify with your axle manufacturer's specifications.
• Capacity:
  • Front Differential (Steer Axle): Approximately 11-13 quarts.
  • Rear Differentials (Drive Axles): Approximately 18-22 quarts per axle.
• Intervals: With synthetic lubricants meeting OEM specs, drain intervals can be extensive, often 250,000 to 500,000 miles under normal conditions. Always refer to the axle manufacturer's maintenance manual.
• Pitfalls: Do not use conventional (mineral) gear oils unless specifically permitted and only if you intend to drastically shorten drain intervals. Ensure the oil meets the heavy-duty commercial axle specifications. Limited Slip Differential (LSD) additives are generally NOT required for heavy-duty truck differentials unless specifically called for by the axle manufacturer (which is rare for primary drive axles).

Brake Fluid

The 2017 Kenworth W900 utilizes an air brake system, not a hydraulic fluid brake system. Therefore, there is no "brake fluid" in the conventional sense (like DOT 3/4/5.1). The braking system relies on compressed air.

• Maintenance: Regular draining of the air tanks to remove moisture and oil contaminants is crucial to prevent corrosion and freezing in the air lines.

Power Steering Fluid

• Type: Many heavy-duty truck power steering systems can use the same synthetic fluid as Allison automatic transmissions, such as a fluid meeting Allison TES-295 or Allison TES-389, or a dedicated commercial power steering fluid meeting Eaton or TRW specifications for heavy trucks. A high-quality heavy-duty synthetic ATF, such as Dexron III/Mercon compatible, is often suitable.
• Capacity: Power steering reservoir capacities are typically around 10-12 quarts, but can vary.
• Intervals: Typically every 100,000 to 200,000 miles, or as recommended by the chassis manufacturer.
• Pitfalls: Do not use conventional (red) Type F ATF or passenger car power steering fluids, as they may not withstand the high pressures and temperatures of a heavy-duty truck system.

Washer Fluid

• Type: Any commercial-grade windshield washer fluid is acceptable. For cold climates, ensure it has a low freezing point (-20°F to -40°F is common).
• Capacity: Washer fluid reservoirs typically hold 1 to 3 gallons.
• Intervals: Top off as needed.
• Pitfalls: Never use plain water in freezing temperatures, as it can freeze and damage the reservoir, pump, and lines.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)

For any 2017 Kenworth W900 equipped with a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system (which most modern diesels are to meet emissions standards).

• Type: Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) meeting ISO 22241 specifications. Always look for the API Certified Diesel Exhaust Fluid symbol on the packaging.
• Capacity: DEF tank capacities typically range from 10 to 20 gallons.
• Intervals: DEF is consumed continually while the engine is running and requires refilling as indicated by the DEF gauge.
• Pitfalls: Never put DEF into the diesel fuel tank, and never put diesel fuel into the DEF tank. This can cause extremely expensive damage to the SCR system or engine fuel system. Only use API-certified DEF; non-compliant DEF can damage the SCR catalyst. Store DEF in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight to prevent degradation.

---

Adhering to these factory fluid specifications is paramount for the long-term reliability and performance of your 2017 Kenworth W900. When in doubt, always consult your specific truck's owner's manual or an authorized Kenworth service center.

Find a trusted shop on Repairius.