This from Danny Nelms:
That engine from Normal Illinois that caught fire a few years ago was found and posted on Facebook.
From Mike Legeros: Parked in Alexis, IL, around the corner from the Alexis Fire Equipment plant buildings. Former Normal, IL, pumper, apparently victim of a vehicle fire. Legeros photos.
#1 by Mike C on June 9, 2021 - 4:05 PM
In addition to what the other Mike said, how many recalls has the TAK4 suspension had? How about the recall on the Command Zone a few years ago where aerials were colliding into buildings because of an issue with the Command Zone?
To add, all the proprietary parts for Pierce is unbelievably expensive! I did a repair on a TAK4 a couple years ago and the parts on it were shockingly expensive!
The West Allis Pierce rigs are the typical biodegradable rigs.
I do have to commend Pierce for their corrosion protection system on their frame rails. Better late than never but they’re only a couple decades behind the game with thousands of biodegradable Pierce’s still out there.
From my personal experience as an EVT, I think Pierce is probably one of the lowest quality apparatus builders on the market however they do a phenomenal job talking their product up as if it’s the greatest apparatus on the market!
#2 by crabbymilton on June 9, 2021 - 6:41 AM
Here in Milwaukee County, West Allis was a long time PIERCE customer but they found that they had very severe flaking rust on the frame on one or more of the pumpers as well as very visible rust on an aerial. As if the rust wasn’t bad enough, the PIERCE rep. acted like a complete turd when challenged in regard to the warranty. Literally walking away. So West Allis has a few SEAGRAVE apparatus and they love them. Paid more but they couldn’t be happier with them and they likely will stick with them.
#3 by Mike on June 8, 2021 - 10:12 PM
FFPM571 not sure how long you’ve been around but pierce today or from the last 20 years isn’t the same company as they were in the 70’s through the 90’s. All they see is dollar signs and the quality isn’t there. Here are a few examples
Lincolnshire riverwoods truck: multiple engine issues, frame failure, torque box failure and it’s an 11 year old truck.
Chicago has had many main ladders rust out
Many other departments in the state of Illinois with frame issues
Many departments in the state of Illinois with paint issues
Deerfield’s new engine powder gave them a 5 year extended warranty because the thing was a lemon from the beginning and they were gonna refuse the rig.
The ascendant aerial ladder recall.
I’m sure there is more but you’re probably tired of facts already.
Sorry but pierce is overpriced garbage. For what they charge none of the issues above should be happening and the beat part is all those issues above pierce has fought to not warranty anything.
#4 by E. C. Darroll on June 8, 2021 - 4:00 PM
What were Champaign’s issues with their Rosenbauers? I didn’t know they were displeased but it doesn’t sound wonderful!
#5 by Localguy on June 8, 2021 - 1:12 PM
It was on the way back from getting new frame rails and several other new parts and pieces. This engine has been replaced. They ordered two Spartans. Both are in the streets. Most depts in central IL have gonna away from pierce and won’t look back. I’ve seen several suburban depts on this site go with rosenbauer. You won’t see that in central IL either. Not after the absolute CRAP rosenbauer sold Champaign. Pierce makes good rigs. They just have a long way to go before the wounds heal down here. From what I’ve read they have fixed the issues that put a bad taste in everyone’s mouth.
#6 by Mike C on June 8, 2021 - 9:04 AM
FFPM571 – The Mike below who commented is not me although he’s spot-on!
It appears the fire originated in the compartment that the electric panel is located. It appears the rig is older and I’m sure many hands have been inside this panel changing/modifying things. I guess the fire could be something to do with Pierce but I’d say due to the age that’s unlikely.
Rest in Peace poor Pierce!
#7 by FFPM571 on June 7, 2021 - 8:30 PM
Good thing Mike is here to Pierce bash any chance he gets…
#8 by Rj on June 7, 2021 - 8:25 PM
I have no direct knowledge but based on location of fire probably a brake fire. Looks like no hose in tbe bed and no ladders so it musta been in transit to somewhere? Not in service on a call.
#9 by Michael m on June 7, 2021 - 6:19 PM
Any idea what caused this fire?
#10 by Mike on June 7, 2021 - 4:29 PM
Well the good news is they don’t have to worry about the rotted frame or the paint falling off anymore. Now it’s an insurance job and they get a new engine for the insurance money and a little out of pocket expense.