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 units 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 engine, which featured a larger 1,750-GPM pump, was allocated to Engine 74 (D-393). All five models came with 500-gallon water tanks, making them well-equipped for emergency response. Engine 74 stood out from the others due to its unique trim design. Unlike the rest, it had a red pump panel instead of the standard polished finish. Additionally, the wide steel band that typically wrapped around the front doors and cab of the other units was omitted from this particular engine. These differences gave it a distinct appearance compared to its 1973 counterparts. Compared to earlier models from 1970, the 1973 engines had a revised numbering system. The large company numbers were now placed on the rear compartment, while a smaller number was displayed on the cab face. The phrase “Chicago Fire Dept.†was also added to both sides of the cab under the jump-seat window and across the roof above the windshield. Another notable change was the removal of the full-width handrail at the back of the cab, as these newer models used a multi-versal that was stored on top of the vehicle. Several photos from this era capture the distinct features of these engines. For example, Engine 23 (D-389) is seen with its characteristic design, while Engine 29 shows the officer’s side of the Ambassador cab. Engine 57, one of the four 1,500-GPM units, highlights the standard configuration of the time. Engine 67, another of the five 1973 models, appears in a photo that showcases its overall build. Finally, Engine 74, with its 1,750-GPM pump and modified styling, stands apart from the rest. Later on, the unit originally assigned to Engine 74—shop number D-393—was reassigned to Engine 104, marking another shift in the department's equipment layout over the years. 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)