The American LaFrance Fire Engine Company is one of the oldest fire apparatus manufacturers with roots that go back to approximately 1832. The company that went on to become American LaFrance built hand-drawn, horse-drawn, and steam-powered fire engines. The International Fire Engine Company, corporate predecessor of American LaFrance, built some steam power fire engines between 1903-1907. Apparatus built by International included horse drawn steamers, hose wagons, and hook & ladders to chemical engines, water towers and combinations. American LaFrance delivered its first motorized fire engine in 1907. Over the years, American LaFrance built thousands of fire trucks including chemical engines, combination pumpers, aerial ladder trucks, Aero Chief snorkel trucks, and airport crash trucks. The classical style of the American LaFrance apparatus is easily recognized. Some of the company's innovations led to changes in the industry, most notably the forward style cab. The company has recently undergone a major rebirth and is once again producing custom fire trucks and other emergency vehicles. In addition to fire engines, it also supplied chassis and running gear for stunning looking speedsters. Presented here is a 1923 complete chassis together with the engine and running gear, but in need of restoration. Whilst not described as running, everything appears to be complete. This La France was put into a barn approximately 12 years ago, where it remained until recently. The six cylinder, twin spark plug, 105bhp engine looks to be a masterful piece of engineering. The wooden artillery style wheels are in good condition and the chain drive to both the rear wheels appears to be in good order. Although not registered in the UK, all the necessary paperwork, customs clearance and shipping document are supplied, together with confirmation of duties paid. There is also an instruction book and dating letter confirming its heritage. This is a rare opportunity to purchase a much sort after and highly desirable American LaFrance restoration project.
The American LaFrance Fire Engine Company is one of the oldest fire apparatus manufacturers with roots that go back to approximately 1832. The company that went on to become American LaFrance built hand-drawn, horse-drawn, and steam-powered fire engines. The International Fire Engine Company, corporate predecessor of American LaFrance, built some steam power fire engines between 1903-1907. Apparatus built by International included horse drawn steamers, hose wagons, and hook & ladders to chemical engines, water towers and combinations. American LaFrance delivered its first motorized fire engine in 1907. Over the years, American LaFrance built thousands of fire trucks including chemical engines, combination pumpers, aerial ladder trucks, Aero Chief snorkel trucks, and airport crash trucks. The classical style of the American LaFrance apparatus is easily recognized. Some of the company's innovations led to changes in the industry, most notably the forward style cab. The company has recently undergone a major rebirth and is once again producing custom fire trucks and other emergency vehicles. In addition to fire engines, it also supplied chassis and running gear for stunning looking speedsters. Presented here is a 1923 complete chassis together with the engine and running gear, but in need of restoration. Whilst not described as running, everything appears to be complete. This La France was put into a barn approximately 12 years ago, where it remained until recently. The six cylinder, twin spark plug, 105bhp engine looks to be a masterful piece of engineering. The wooden artillery style wheels are in good condition and the chain drive to both the rear wheels appears to be in good order. Although not registered in the UK, all the necessary paperwork, customs clearance and shipping document are supplied, together with confirmation of duties paid. There is also an instruction book and dating letter confirming its heritage. This is a rare opportunity to purchase a much sort after and highly desirable American LaFrance restoration project.
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.jpg "Source: Christie's")
.jpg "Source: Christie's")
