| Author | Message | ||
     extuscan Citizen Username: Extuscan Post Number: 535 Registered: 6-2001 |
These are currently on ebay for $25 each!!! They are advertised as "period pictures" but clearly they aren't because they didn't have air conditioners when these fire trucks were new. The first two are the same American LaFrance, from 1918 (maybe Maplewood bought it used, or inherited it from South Orange). The second is an American LaFrance also, but I don't know the vintage. I do know of a couple who own an ex-Maplewood 1925 American LaFrance, who live down nearly Philly. I'll find out if its the same one.    | ||
| ken (the other one) Citizen Username: Ken Post Number: 358 Registered: 5-2001  |
since it is parked in front of the last bay door it could the fire reserve trucks. | ||
| extuscan Citizen Username: Extuscan Post Number: 539 Registered: 6-2001 |
I've tracked down the owner of the impressively large Maplewood firetruck pictured above. Despite being listed as a 1918 on the Ebay picture, is infact a 1922 "American LaFrance City Service" truck, number 3856. It was purchased by the current owners on July 23, 1973 by Bob and Liz Hoffman of Port Norris, NJ. The previous owner was from Orange, who purchased it directly from Maplewood. It recently won best of show in Philadelphia and at the Wheaton Village Antique Fire Show. The truck is in original condition, only needing the seat reupholstered in 1973, and some recent engine work. The truck has never been back to Maplewood due to the fact it is chain drive (like a bicycle) and the distance is too great. Additionally, Liz Hoffman describes herself as a "grey haired old lady". The vehicle is currently enjoyed by the Hoffmans, thier sons, and thier grandchildren. Its nice to see that it is in good hands! Below are some pictures of the truck today. If there is anyone from the Maplewood Fire Department on MOL who would like the Hoffman's contact information, please private line me. I'm in NH till the summer so I can't just pop down to the fire station and pass it along. -John    | ||
| Tom Reingold Supporter Username: Noglider Post Number: 11013 Registered: 1-2003  |
What is likely to happen if you drive a chain-drive truck too far? | ||
| extuscan Citizen Username: Extuscan Post Number: 540 Registered: 6-2001 |
My understanding is the vehicle doesn't have a transmission in the modern sense. The engine is connected directly to the rear axle with a GIANT chain. This really limits your top end speed, which is probably what makes it so impractical to drive any great distance. Most owners flatbed the thing if they are showing it, but these guys don't own the equipment and it is a massive truck. -John |
