Photo courtesy of Pierce Manufacturing
The Oshkosh Fire Department (Wis.) has added two Pierce Quantum quint 105-ft. heavy-duty aerial ladders to its fleet.
The apparatus features the TAK-4 independent front suspension and the TAK-4 T3 mechanical rear steering system. Each aerial ladder is equipped with a Detroit DD13 500-hp engine and a Command Zone advanced electronics and control system. The cab includes seating for four firefighters, a forward-facing EMS compartment, and frontal impact and side roll protection systems.
Tim Franz, fire chief, said in a statement that the department chose the Pierce Quantum because it is easy to navigate, even in narrow spaces.
“These new Quantum quint vehicles respond as both engines and ladder trucks, and we put a lot of miles on them over some very rough and narrow streets,” Franz said. “The turning radius is excellent, and the handling is equally impressive. We notice a big difference when driving over railroad tracks and negotiating tight 90-degree turns. Even when pulling out of the station, we don’t get the twist and body roll we normally experience with a straight axle truck.”
The four-section, 105-ft. aerial device includes remote tip controls, a two-way intercom, a LyfePulley rescue system, and LED rung lighting. The system includes a single-stage PUC pump offering 1,500 gallons per minute, a 500-gallon water tank, and low-mount crosslays.
