Still working. Still hauling. Still legendary. Meet DeBeradinis Heavy Haul’s 1990 Mack RD800—built like a tank, moves like a beast, and clocks in at 300,000 lbs of prime mover muscle. Here’s the full story of one of the last giants of old-school American heavy transport.
Old-School Muscle MACK RD800
- Year: 1990
- Model: Mack RD800 (Heavy Haul spec)
- Engine: Mack E9 V8
- Transmission: 18-speed + 2-speed auxiliary
- Drivetrain: Planetary rear axles, triple frame
- Purpose-built as a prime mover—designed for serious hauling, not grocery runs.
Wait… What Are Planetary Axles?
If you’ve never heard of them, think: gear reduction magic. Planetary rears multiply torque massively, sacrificing speed for brute pulling power. Common in mining loaders, rare in road trucks—unless you’re moving stuff measured in hundreds of thousands of pounds.
Yes, It Still Works
Despite its 1990 birthdate, this RD800 isn’t a show queen—it’s a working rig. It’s hauled 300,000 lb payloads from Florida ports to the Kennedy Space Center. It gets called in when modern trucks tap out. Respect the classics.
Northeast Roots, Red with a Purpose
The pinstriping, color, and “Big Kenny” name aren’t just for show. They’re a tribute to family, legacy, and lost friends (yes, including Bam Bam, the truck’s namesake). Red and black are a nod to the fleet colors from the 1950s.
Climbing Aboard the Giant
At nearly 5 feet high to the cab, it’s a climb. It sports 14.00×24 tube tires, 3 tanks (2 fuel, 1 hydraulic), and that no-nonsense coupler on the back looks straight off a freight train. Tough love in truck form.
Still in the Fleet, Still Getting Dirty
With ~15 working trucks, DeBeradinis doesn’t mess around. This RD800 may be a museum piece in looks, but it’s all business when duty calls. Maintained obsessively, this iron lady’s AC gets fixed before the door handle does—driver priorities, right?
🤯 Fun Facts & Easter Eggs:
- The R-model cab design was in production from 1965 into the 1990s—talk about staying power.
- The lettering and striping are hand-done, including a hidden signature inside the cab.
- The truck originally came from George Young Co. in New Jersey—only one of two made, and DeBeradinis snatched one.
This is more than just a truck—it’s a rolling piece of heavy-haul history. Whether you’re into diesel engineering, truck culture, or just respect brute force wrapped in red enamel, the Mack RD800 delivers.
Got a favorite old-school hauler still working today? Drop it in the comments!