| Ladies and gentlemen, the Mack is back. As luck would have it, this truck was found posted "for sale" online several months ago – and thanks to the hard work of several members of the fire department, and well as the generous owner of the truck, the Mack has come home.
This 1962 Mack "B" model was purchased new by our department, and originally served as Engine 107 (a designation which has not since been filled). It saw many years of service in Bedford and took in a lot of fires "back in the day". And, like many Macks of the day, was known to be (and still is) hard to drive with a straight five speed with no electronic synchro (which means if you miss a gear, you're in trouble).
Luckily for us, the truck saw minimal use in its second home out in the northwest United States, and was kept in a barn most of the time. Most surprisingly, the truck still has all of its original lettering and decals, lighting, horn and siren, and on-board equipment including full sets of turnout gear, air packs, hose, and a county radio. After several thousand miles, an oil change, and a much needed wash and wax, the truck is in near mint condition back here in Bedford. It's been registered and is back on the road – and it runs/drives like it used to.
We're very excited to have this piece of history back, and look forward to showcasing the Mack in our parades and public events. |
