Completely Rebuilt Aerial Saves Money, Passes Tests
Rising fire apparatus prices have prompted many cities to examine alternate methods of providing improved equipment at lower costs. One solution adopted in many areas is the rebuilding of existing units.
Probably the most striking newly rebuilt apparatus in the Southwest is a ladder truck placed in service in 1977 by the North Richland Hills, Texas, Fire Department under the command of Chief Stan Gertz.
The original unit was a 1947 American LaFrance 700 Series aerial truck with midship-mounted 100-foot ladder. Originally owned by the Fort Worth Fire Department, the apparatus was acquired by North Richland Hills in 1975.
Specifications written
In late 1976, specifications for the complete rebuilding of the apparatus were prepared. These called for replacement of the engine, transmission, clutch, drive line, front axle, electrical system and exhaust system. In addition, the aerial ladder, ladder hydraulic system, turntable, and turntable bearings were to be replaced and the rear axle was to be rebuilt. Totally new features were to be a five-man cab, power steering, air brakes, and a booster system with a 300-gallon tank, a 250gpm pump, and a preconnected 1 1/2inch line.
American LaFrance, the successful bidder, performed the work at the firm’s service center near Fort Worth. Approximately nine months was required for completion.
Diesel engine installed
Powered by a 6V-53N Detroit Diesel engine with a Spicer five-speed transmission, Richland Hills’ rig sports a Pioneer III cab and all new warning signals. A power take-off Hale pump supplies the booster system, which has a 2 1/2 -inch inlet and outlet in addition to the l 1/2-inch outlet for the 200-foot preconnected line.
A one-year warranty on all parts, including those original with the vehicle, was provided along with a two-year warranty on the drive train.
The apparatus was tested in compliance with NFPA Standard 1904 before acceptance and was recognized by the Texas State Board of Insurance as a new truck. Total cost of the conversion was slightly less than $75,000 as opposed to an estimated $135,000 for a similarly equipped new unit.
