The Chillicothe Fire Department purchased their large Aerial truck in 2004. The Truck has a 95-foot tower and is capable of reaching the 9th floor of a building for rescue and firefighting purposes. Chillicothe Fire Chief Erick Reeter says the truck has been used locally for fires and used to assist other departments including in Trenton, Carrollton, and Brookfield.
Chief Reeter says the Chillicothe Fire Department vehicle replacement schedule would normally replace the truck after 15 years, but due to low hours of use and continued maintenance, the life of the truck has been extended.
He says they recently spoke with the manufacturer of the truck, Sutphen, about replacement.
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Replacement could take 3-4 years
They explained that if the truck qualified, refurbishment is a viable option. The price of a new aerial truck is estimated at more than $2 million, but the refurbishing is quoted at just over $750,000 and could be completed in about 6 months.
Reeter says refurbishing would include bringing the truck up to standards, refreshing, repairing, replacing, and upgrading items. They will handle all systems, from the frame and engine to the seats, water pumps, gauges, and safety lights to the tower itself. He says the truck would also get a new paint scheme.
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The Hornet colors – Red and Black
Chief Reeter says the truck would be returned to them with a life expectancy of about 15 years.
