Pierce Manufacturing Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation business, announced it has delivered its 1,000th Paccar MX-13 engine installed in a Pierce 107-foot Ascendant Heavy-Duty Aerial Ladder. The unit was delivered to the Broussard Fire Department in Louisiana and purchased through Pierce dealer Siddons-Martin Emergency Group.

Pierce began integrating the Paccar MX-13 engine into its custom chassis in 2021, expanding its engine offerings. The engine is manufactured in Columbus, Mississippi, and is rated at 510 horsepower and 1,850 lb.-ft. of torque.

Apparatus Specifications and Department Needs

The Broussard Fire Department serves 14 square miles, including residential areas, industrial facilities, and high-traffic corridors. The department selected an aerial apparatus designed to provide reach, maneuverability, and storage capacity.

The 107-foot Ascendant Heavy-Duty Aerial Ladder includes:

• Pierce Enforcer custom chassis
• Paccar MX-13 engine (510 hp, 1,850 lb.-ft. torque)
• PUC 1500 GPM pump configuration
• 500-gallon water tank
• Single rear axle aerial ladder configuration
• TAK-4 independent front suspension
• Expanded compartment space enabled by the PUC design
• Command Zone electronics system

The apparatus also includes automated setup and stabilization systems designed to reduce operator input.

“This apparatus provides the height and maneuverability needed for our service area,” said Fire Chief Bryan Champagne of the Broussard Fire Department.

Engine Selection and Support

This is the department’s first apparatus powered by a Paccar engine. The selection was based on performance, parts availability, and service access. The department cited improved access to service through nearby Kenworth and Peterbilt locations compared to previous engine platforms.

“Our previous engines required specialized service and travel to distant dealers,” Champagne said. “The Paccar engine provides more local support options.”

Program Milestone and Delivery

The delivery marks a milestone for Pierce as it continues to expand engine options for fire apparatus. The company said the Paccar MX-13 integration supports performance, serviceability, and lifecycle considerations.

The apparatus was financed through Pierce, with the department citing a streamlined procurement process.

Siddons-Martin Emergency Group representative Danny Denais, a former Broussard fire chief, supported the purchase.