Since its retirement as an active piece of equipment, this beautifully restored 1983 American LaFrance fire engine has been modified to service the fire department once again.  This vehicle was converted into a parade / funeral coach to serve the citizens of the community and the fallen firefighters who have served their citizens. 

From the beginning, it was our desire to build a parade / funeral coach as if it had been ordered from American LaFrance.  In order to enclose the funeral floor from view, we had to remove the water tank and structurally secure the new floor.  The parade floor was adapted to rest on top of the low side compartments.  All of these modifications are counseled behind aluminum tread plate that is easily detached when operating in funeral mode.  When in funeral mode, the wood parade floor is removed and stowed in a newly fabricated compartment above the fire pump panel.   We felt it was important to contain all pieces of the vehicle on the apparatus.  Because the engine is larger than most antique fire apparatus, we were able to fabricate permanent seats that allow passengers to ride regardless of the mode its being used at the time.  

Although this coach was modified to serve a different purpose, we authentically restored and decorated this apparatus just as it was delivered to the fire department in 1983.  The exceptions taken while restoring this apparatus were an authentic 12” American LaFrance bell was added to the officer’s side front bumper support.  It was also the wishes of this customer to modify wood ladders that would fit the coach.  Originally, this vehicle had large aluminum extension, roof and scuttle ladders.  Today, the original ladder brackets support decorative wood.  A custom fabricated fold down step was also added.  It was fabricated to fit into the original storage compartment in the rear.  When removed, the step convenience and seating lights illuminate for safety.  The department’s reflective logo was also added to the back of the hose bed area.

Here at Texas Fire Museum, Incorporated, we routinely manufacture parade and funeral coaches.  We welcome your ideas and would be excited to assist your department in this popular and functional design modification.

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