Part 3 in the series covering Ward LaFrance and the Chicago Fire Department: In 1973, the Chicago Fire Department added five more Ward LaFrance P80 Ambassador engines to its fleet. Four of these were equipped with 1,500-GPM pumps and assigned to Engine 23 (D-389), Engine 29 (D-390), Engine 57 (D-391), and Engine 67 (D-392). The fifth unit, featuring a larger 1,750-GPM pump, was allocated to Engine 74 (D-393). All of these engines came with a 500-gallon water tank, ensuring they had enough initial water supply for early-stage fire suppression. Engine 74 stood out from the rest of the 1973 models due to its unique trim design. Unlike the others, it had a red pump panel instead of the usual polished finish, and it lacked the wide steel band that wrapped around the front doors and cab of the other units. These subtle but noticeable differences gave it a distinct appearance compared to its counterparts. Compared to the earlier 1970 models, the 1973 units featured a different numbering system. The large company numbers were moved to the rear compartment, while a smaller number was placed on the cab face. Additionally, "Chicago Fire Dept." was now displayed on both sides of the cab, beneath the jump-seat window, as well as across the roof above the windshield. Another notable change was the removal of the full-width handrail at the back of the cab, which was replaced by a multi-versal stored on the roof, making the cab more streamlined. Several photos capture the unique features of these engines. One image shows Engine 23 (D-389) with its distinctive styling, while another highlights Engine 29 (D-390) from the officer's side. Engine 57 (D-391) is also seen with its 1,500-GPM pump, and Engine 67 (D-392) reflects the standard design of the 1973 models. Finally, Engine 74 (D-393) stands out with its larger pump and slightly different body style, making it a standout unit in the fleet. Later, Engine 74, originally assigned to Company 74, was reassigned to Engine 104, marking a shift in its operational role within the department. These vehicles played an important role in the city’s firefighting efforts during the early 1970s and remain significant pieces of Chicago Fire Department history. Rapid Rolling Door,Automatic Pvc High Speed Rolling Shutter Door,Fast Rolling Shutter Door,Automatic Door Commercial Wuxi Zijing Purification Engineering Co., Ltd , https://www.zijingjh.com
CFD Apparatus History – Ward LaFrance (1973)