1925 Ahrens-Fox Steam Pumper/Fire Engine
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The Ahrens-Fox Steam Pumper/Fire Engine 1925 is a marvel of engineering from a bygone era. This highly collectible vintage fire engine is a sight to behold, with its gleaming brass fittings and polished wooden ladders. But beneath its impressive exterior lies a highly sophisticated steam-powered system that allowed it to deliver a rapid and powerful response to fires in the early 20th century.
At the heart of the Ahrens-Fox Steam Pumper is a massive boiler that could generate up to 1,000 gallons of steam per minute. This steam was used to drive a reciprocating pump that could deliver up to 750 gallons of water per minute at a pressure of over 200 PSI. The powerful pump could draw water from a source up to 10 feet below the engine, making it ideal for fighting fires in areas with limited access to water.
The Ahrens-Fox Steam Pumper was also highly maneuverable for its size. The engine could be controlled by a single driver, and the steering system allowed for a tight turning radius, making it easy to navigate narrow city streets. The tall, narrow design of the engine also helped it to squeeze through tight spaces and narrow alleys to reach fires in hard-to-reach areas.
The engine's braking system was also highly advanced for its time. It featured a steam-powered compression brake, known as a "jake brake", that allowed the driver to slow the engine down without using the traditional brake pads. This system helped to extend the lifespan of the brake pads and also made it easier to control the heavy vehicle during emergency stops.
One of the most impressive things about the Ahrens-Fox Steam Pumper is its exquisite craftsmanship. The engine was hand-built by skilled artisans who spared no expense in creating a truly beautiful machine. The brass fittings, for example, were meticulously polished to a high shine, and the wooden ladders were carefully crafted from the finest oak.
Today, the Ahrens-Fox Steam Pumper is a treasured collector's item and a true testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of an earlier age. Its advanced steam-powered system, highly maneuverable design, and exquisite craftsmanship continue to inspire admiration and awe.
Milestones
- Ahrens-Fox Steam Pumper/Fire Engine was first introduced in 1925 - It was equipped with a 1000-gallon water tank and a 100-gallon foam tank - It had a powerful 1,000 GPM (Gallons Per Minute) pump - The engine was powered by a 160 horsepower steam engine - It had a distinctive appearance with its red and gold finish and brass accents - The Ahrens-Fox Steam Pumper/Fire Engine was used by many fire departments across the United States - It was known for its reliability and high performance in firefighting situations - The model continued to be produced until 1931 - Today, the 1925 Ahrens-Fox is considered a valuable and rare collector's item in the firefighting community.Technical
• Year of manufacture: 1925 • Model Name: Ahrens-Fox Steam Pumper • Engine Type: Steam-powered • Engine Size: 2,200 gallons per minute • Pump Capacity: 110 psi • Weight: 14,900 pounds • Wheelbase: 170 inches • Hose Capacity: 1,000 feet • Water Tank Capacity: 150 gallons • Fuel: Coal or wood • Brakes: Mechanical and hand-operated • Steering: Front-wheel steering • Rollers: 27-inch hard rubber front tires and 48-inch rear steel tires • Speed: Maximum speed not specified, but typically around 20 mph.
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