1971 Ford F900? Cab Over Fire Truck w/ 534 cid

[NumberDummy]

Originally Posted by comstock

If anyone has a red Federal Beacon-Ray (at least 12" tall) they want to sell, I need one since the selling authority removed it and the siren prior to sale.
Chris

I see from the pic you posted why the cab is a PITA to tilt..it's a Crew! It's over twice the length of the usual C Series cab.


There's a car/truck club for fire truck owners. I forget the name, but y'all can prolly find it doing a web search. Besides the usual banter, the club publication also has for sale/want ads.

[comstock]

Thanks Bill, I will search harder for that club. I did a cursory Google search and could not find anything (odd!). Yes the cab is heavy!! From what I learned, these fire truck body people never would increase spring pressure.
Thanks!
Chris

[dale3fan]

Nice looking rig. Just remember that the cab, chassis and drivetrain for the most part is Ford with the exception of where they installed the transfer case to switch between road and pump and if a Ford dealer can't help you NAPA should be able to. I got wheel cylinders and wheel cylinder rebuild kits and master cylinder rebuild kits for my '66 F850 American LaFrance at NAPA. They may have to order it and it will take a couple days to get it but they're pretty good about it.

Here is a link to the Fire apparatus collectors site.....

http://www.spaamfaa.org/

[comstock]

Excellent info Dale! Would be curious how many memebers on the Ford Truck Enthusuasts list have Ford fire trucks and what fire truck groups they belong to.
Thanks!
Chris

[dale3fan]

Hey Chris,

If you go to the SPAAMFAA site and click on CHAPTERS you may be able to find a local chapter in your area that you can join. Their members can be invaluable when it comes to needing help or info. Good Luck!!

Scott

[comstock]

Just found out the truck is made by Howe of Anderson, Indiana. Howe shut down in 1978 after over 100 years in business making fire apparatus due to the economic conditions at the time.

I am joining SPAAMFAA as it has been pointed out, they would have a wealth of fire truck knowledge.
Chris

[xfdcapt]

If you're still looking for a 12" high Beacon Ray, try John Dorgan at
www.sirenman.com. John restores vintage sirens and lights back to factory new condition at very reasonable prices. You can also reach him at 520-790-0196 (Tucson, AZ)

I own a '66 C-1000/Young fire engine which is now 99% restored. Your truck looks great!!!

[comstock]

Many thanks for the Beacon Ray info!
Chris

[less]

I always liked the Ford C cab. I believe Budd made it and Budd also sold Mack Trucks the same cab, back in the early '60's.

[xfdcapt]

less...you are absolutely right. Both Ford and Mack used the same cab.

I acquired my C-1000 engine when a local fire museum (Phoenix) sent me out to check on a "Mack" fire engine that an Arizona fire dept. wanted to donate to them. It turned out to be a "Ford." They wanted a Mack, not a Ford, and turned down the donation; so I bought the truck for $10!