Innovation and Renovation
features
Inexpensive Design for Pumper
Facing increasing costs of fire apparatus and widespread budgetary cutbacks, the San Clemente, Calif., Fire Department was able to design and have manufactured a custom-built pumper for $30,000. That price included the purchase of a cab and chassis, the fabrication and construction of compartments and body, and reuse of a 500-gpm front-mount pump already owned by the department.
San Clemente Fire Department has been running attack pumpers for over 10 years. They are an integral part of our department’s operation, due to their reduced manpower requirements, relative low cost and maneuverability. It was time to replace an older unit, so we developed our own specifications. Using this approach, we built a unit that fits our needs, uses and topography without having to pay extra for features we have no use for.
We designed this unit with more compartment space than most class A pumpers on the market today. This includes a special compartment to hold a Lucas extrication tool. It was designed with a low bottom to save the fire fighter’s back while loading or unloading.
We also designed a jump seat on the right side to accommodate additional fire fighters. The tailboard also will carry fire fighters if necessary.
With a 167-inch wheel base chassis, we can carry a lot of equipment, including a 500-gallon water tank. At the rear we have a 2 1/2-inch suction, a 2 1/2-inch discharge and two 1 1/2-inch preconnected attack lines. At the front we have a 2 1/2-inch suction and two 2 1/2-inch discharges. We carry 900 feet of 3-inch supply hose along with our 1 1/2 and 1 3/4-inch preconnects.
Lots of power
Due to San Clemente’s hilly area, we needed lots of horsepower and stopping power. So we specified a 427-cubic-inch displacement engine, air brakes and a 5-speed Allison automatic transmission.
The actual body manufacturing, pump installation and plumbing was done by La Mesa Sheet Metal, located in San Diego County. The company is owned and operated by Gene Robeson, a retired La Mesa fire captain. Gene is very knowledgeable in the layout, design and manufacturing of fire apparatus on commercial chassis. Along with his attention to details, he is easy to work with in the final layout of specifications and throughout construction.
After the manufacturing of the attack pumper was complete, the mounting of equipment and other detail work was done by shift personnel.
The 1980 chassis cost approximately $20,000. The fabrication of the body, pump installation, painting and all other construction work cost $10,000. We have been very satisfied with the operation of the engine.
