2002 International Navistar 9000i - A rare Kiwi rig restored

Not many trucks turn heads quite like the 2002 International Navistar 9000i – and with good reason. Only five of these legendary rigs were ever imported into New Zealand, making them some of the rarest big American-style trucks on our roads.

This particular 9000i started its Kiwi life with Chapman’s in Pukekohe, before making its way south to a new owner in the South Island. Eventually, it was purchased by Glen McKay of Orion Haulage, who drove it back up to Morrinsville, where Orion is based. He then put it to work for several years before approaching us to do the restoration work.

That’s when the real journey began.

From March through to November 2018, our team completed a full ground-up restoration of this beast. It was a massive project – but one of the most rewarding ones we’ve ever been a part of.

What the restoration involved:

• Engine: Fully rebuilt C12 Caterpillar – breathing new life into the truck.

• Transmission: Reconditioned 18-speed gearbox to handle anything the road throws at it.

• Driveline: Diffs stripped and rebuilt.

• Systems: Rewiring and replumbing throughout, ensuring everything was as good as (or better than) new.

• Parts: We sourced genuine International parts direct through Intertruck Mt Maunganui and direct from some of our suppliers in USA to make sure the restoration stayed true to its roots.

The end result? A stunning, fully restored International Navistar 9000i that looks as sharp as the day it rolled out of the factory – and maybe even better. Seeing it return to the road was a proud moment for Glen, Orion Haulage, and our team alike.

Thinking about restoring your own truck?

Projects like this don’t come around every day, but we’re always up for the challenge. Whether it’s a full rebuild or a custom fit-out, Mike, Rob and the team would be stoked to have a chat about bringing your vision to life.

If you’ve got a rig that deserves a second life, give us a shout – we’d love to help you put the pride back in your ride.

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