A Closer Look at the 1925 Kenworth KS 3-Ton

“This 1925 Kenworth KS 3-Ton is a very early Kenworth model,” remarked the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum in a statement. “Most trucks at that time, aside from Macks, Packards and Whites were assembled trucks. This one is no exception.”

At the heart of this vintage marvel is a Buda 4-Cylinder engine, paired with a Cotta 4-Speed transmission and a Timken-manufactured rear axle. While its top speed of 25 mph may sound modest by today’s standards, during its heyday, this truck exemplified cutting-edge engineering.

“Kenworths are still assembled trucks today,” the museum further explained, emphasizing the brand’s enduring commitment to its foundational approach to manufacturing.

Kenworth’s Origin Story

The story of Kenworth began in 1912 in Portland, Oregon, with the establishment of Gerlinger Motor Car Works by brothers George and Louis Gerlinger. Initially a retailer of both automobiles and trucks, the company released its first heavy-duty truck, the Gersix, in 1915. The business eventually moved to Tacoma, Washington, before being acquired by Edgar Worthington and Frederick Kent, who renamed it the Gersix Motor Company.

Kenworth Motor Truck Company came to life in 1923 when Frederick Kent’s son, Harry Kent, and Edgar Worthington officially incorporated the company by combining their surnames. While Kenworth became synonymous with trucks, it also ventured into bus manufacturing early on and began incorporating diesel engines into its vehicles by 1933. The 1925 KS model on display gained popularity among heavy industries like logging in the Northwest.

Unearthing a Rare Treasure

The 1925 Kenworth KS 3-Ton currently featured in the exhibit comes with an incredible backstory. Found not far from Microsoft’s headquarters in Redmond, Washington, this truck—with serial number 2012—was used by a construction firm to haul dynamite. With its unique combination of hard rubber tires on the rear and pneumatic tires up front, it is believed to be the oldest surviving KS model to date.

The Legacy of the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum

Bill Moon, the founder of the Iowa 80 Truckstop, envisioned preserving trucking history, which led to the establishment of the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum. Moon’s passion for antique trucks and collectibles fuelled this one-of-a-kind collection, which now showcases rare and significant vehicles.

“We are pleased to be able to share this collection with the general public,” the museum said. “Every truck has a story to tell and can provide a unique glimpse back in time. Many rare and one-of-a-kind trucks are on display. View short films about trucking history in our REO theater which is a great way to learn even more about the trucks of yesteryear.”

More Stars of the “100 Years of Trucking” Exhibit

While the 1925 Kenworth KS 3-Ton is the highlight, the exhibit also features other industry-shaping vehicles from the same era, such as:

• 1925 International Water Tanker – Boasting a 4-Cylinder, 283-cubic inch engine with a 4¼-inch bore and 5-inch stroke, this tanker reflects the early industrial ingenuity of its time.

Source: Iowa 80 Trucking Museum

• 1925 Douglas Well Drilling Rig – A fascinating example of well-drilling equipment mounted on a truck, showcasing the period’s dedication to functional design.

Source: Iowa 80 Trucking Museum

Both vehicles provide an additional layer of insight into the engineering marvels that laid the groundwork for modern trucking.

Experience the Exhibit

Whether you’re a passionate trucking enthusiast or simply enjoy exploring historical innovations, the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum’s “100 Years of Trucking” exhibit offers an immersive glimpse into the industry’s origins. Visit to admire the iconic 1925 Kenworth KS 3-Ton and learn about the pioneering machines that shaped the road ahead.

Source: The Trucker

Image: Iowa 80 Trucking Museum

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1. Repurposing for New Adventures

Not all retired trucks are scrapped. Many find a second life in industries that don’t demand long hauls or heavy loads. For example:

• Farming and Construction: Older trucks often serve on farms or construction sites as stationary equipment, such as water carriers or generators. Their durability makes them ideal for rugged tasks.
• Mobile Businesses: Trucks no longer fit for hauling can be converted into food trucks, mobile repair shops, or even custom living spaces, offering innovative solutions for entrepreneurs.
• Training Vehicles: Driving schools often use decommissioned trucks to teach new drivers, allowing hands-on practice in a safe and controlled environment.

2. The Recycling Process

When a truck is truly at the end of its road life, recycling ensures its materials are repurposed efficiently. Here’s how the process unfolds:

• Tires: Old tires are processed into materials for asphalt, playground surfaces, or even repurposed as industrial mats.
• Metal Components: Steel, aluminum, and other metals are melted down and reused in manufacturing for vehicles, appliances, or construction materials.
• Fluids and Batteries: Engine oil, transmission fluid, and batteries are carefully drained, treated, and recycled, minimizing environmental risks.

This comprehensive recycling process reduces waste and ensures that even a worn-out truck contributes to sustainability.

3. Parts Salvaging

Before recycling, trucks are often stripped for usable parts. Salvage yards play a crucial role here:

• Engines and Transmissions: These components are refurbished and resold, extending the lifecycle of other vehicles.
• Interior Parts: Seats, steering wheels, and dashboards are repurposed for vehicles in need of replacement parts.
• Rare Components: Older trucks often have components no longer manufactured, making them valuable for restoration projects or vintage fleets.

4. Preservation for History

Some trucks don’t retire in the traditional sense. Vintage and iconic models are preserved or restored, becoming showpieces in museums or truck shows. These trucks showcase the industry’s evolution, offering a glimpse into the past for future generations.

5. Export to Developing Markets

In many cases, trucks that no longer meet emissions or safety standards in one country are exported to developing markets where they can still be used effectively. These trucks provide essential transport in areas where newer vehicles are less accessible, extending their usefulness.

6. Creative Recycling Innovations

The ingenuity of today’s innovators has led to remarkable transformations of retired trucks:

• Art Installations: Components from trucks are repurposed into sculptures and public art pieces, blending industrial design with creativity.
• Eco-Friendly Housing: Truck frames are sometimes used as foundations for modular, eco-friendly homes, demonstrating sustainable reuse.

Why This Matters

Understanding the lifecycle of a truck helps drivers appreciate the full impact of their vehicle’s existence, from the first mile to the last. Recycling and repurposing preserve resources and ensure that these hardworking machines continue contributing to society long after their driving days are over.

The journey of a truck doesn’t end at the scrapyard. Whether repurposed, recycled, or cherished as a piece of history, every retired truck has a story that continues to unfold. For drivers, knowing what happens to their trusted rigs after retirement adds a new layer of respect for the industry and its commitment to sustainability.

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