Around 1962, the Carmichael company used a 109in (2.77m) chassis to construct a compact, manoeuvrable forward-control domestic fire appliance for use ‘at home and overseas, and for operation over narrow roads, steep gradients, and acute bends’. A number of these were supplied to the Army where, despite the forward-control configuration, they were confusingly designated Rover 9.
The vehicle was almost certainly not constructed on the standard Land Rover forward-control chassis and, although the wheelbase remained at 109in (2.77m), the chassis was said to have been extended to provide the forward-control layout. The forward portion of the body, which looked like no other Land Rover, consisted of a driving and crew compartment, while the rear section housed a main pump (capable of delivering 300/350 gallons (1,364/1,511 litre) of water per minute) a 40 gallon (182 litre) water tank, hose reel and suction hoses. A 35ft (10.7m) extending ladder was carried on the roof and there were side lockers for all necessary tools and equipment.
Additional cooling facilities were provided to prevent the engine from overheating during stationary pumping operations, there was also an oil cooler. The engine was fitted with an immersion heater to ensure rapid starting and effective lubrication from cold.
A similar vehicle was constructed for the British Army by HCB-Angus on a standard 11 Oin (2.79m) forward-control chassis.
World History
