1935 Ahrens Fox -Model VC - Serial # 9004
Owner: John Roads
Tucson, AZ
The eldest of
the Hamilton, Ohio Twins (eldest by 1 serial number). The twins were ordered by
Hamilton to replace a piston Fox damaged in an accident. The Model VC rig is a
triple-combination 500 gpm units with 100 gallon booster tanks, and rear mounted
booster reels. The unit also has a PTO driven booster pump. The rig is powered
by a Hercules YXC3 straight 6 cylinder power plant. Built in Cincinnati, Ohio,
this VC pumper was retired in 1978.
Shortly after retirement, the engine was damaged and the rig sat idle. In 1987, the rig sold again (3rd time) and was shipped to Tucson, Arizona. It again sat idle until 1993. The engine was rebuilt and the rig made a couple of shows in late 1993 and early 1994. Circumstances left the rig sitting idle again until 2005, where it made its return appearance on June 4th.
The siren is missing from the left front fender in the photo. It was removed for repairs. The running board tool boxes were discarded prior to the rig's retirement from Hamilton.
According to the paint on the engine, this rig ran as Hamilton Co. # 6.
Little known facts - the current owner grew up near Hamilton. Almost all valves on this Fox are made by Lunkenheimer Valve Co. of Cincinnati. The owner's grandfather worked for Lunkenheimer for 50 years, including the time period this engine was built.
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