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Bill Friedrich has started a series of posts that explore the different types of fire apparatus used in Chicago. The first post focuses on the Ward LaFrance engines from 1970, offering a detailed look at these historic units and their roles in the city's fire department.
In 1970, seven P80 engines were delivered to the Chicago Fire Department (CFD), one for each district. These included Engine 126 (D-372), Engine 73 (D-373), Engine 8 (D-374), Engine 106 (D-375), Engine 22 (D-376), Engine 113 (D-377), and Engine 49 (D-378). Each was equipped with a powerful 2,000-GPM pump and carried 500 gallons of water. These rigs were built on the Ward LaFrance Ambassador chassis and represented a significant step forward in firefighting technology at the time.
One of the most notable units was Engine 113, which featured a full-height polished metal panel behind the pump. Another, Engine 22, underwent several reassignments and a major refurbishment. It was later damaged in a wall collapse but was rebuilt, though some original features like the continuous handrail and red panel above the pump were not part of its initial design. Engine 73, on the other hand, remained untouched and was eventually scrapped. Meanwhile, Engine 126 retained its original graphics, including the full metal panel behind the pump.
By 1990, six of the original 1970 P80s were rebuilt by Able Fire Equipment Co. in Frankfort, Illinois. The upgrades included a Ranger 4-door cab, a new aluminum Emergency One body, a 140-gallon foam tank, and 5-inch hose. The reborn engines were assigned to Engine 122 (replacing Engine 126), Engine 69 (replacing Engine 8), Engine 113 (replacing Engine 106), Engine 46 (replacing Engine 22), Engine 14 (replacing Engine 113), and Engine 34 (replacing Engine 49). Two of these, D-374 and D-375, even appeared in the movie *Backdraft*, adding to their historical significance.
The rebuilt units had a more modern look, with some featuring extended bumpers and LDH (Large Diameter Hose) systems. Photos show how these engines evolved over time, reflecting both technological advancements and the changing needs of the CFD. Whether on the fireground or in a film, these Ward LaFrance engines left a lasting mark on Chicago’s firefighting history.