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This is the latest installment from Bill Friedrich, delving into the fascinating history of Chicago Fire Department Turret Wagon 6-7-2.
Turret Wagon 6-7-2 was officially organized on September 19, 1966, at the Chicago Fire Rescue Headquarters located at 1244 N Wells. The original vehicle was a 1962 Willys Jeep FC150 4×4, designated as G-196. In 1966, the CFD Shops took this base and fabricated a custom body equipped with twin deluge monitors capable of pumping up to 4,000 gallons per minute. This marked the beginning of a long and storied career for the unit.
*6-7-2 (G-196) 1962 Willys Jeep FC150 4X4 – 1966 CFD Shops. Bob Schalund photo*
Later in 1967, the wagon was upgraded again. This time, it was mounted on a 1953 IHC M61 5-ton chassis, labeled G-248. The CFD Shops once more modified the body, this time installing twin deluge monitors that could flow up to 10,000 gallons per minute. However, by the mid-1970s, G-248 was found to be structurally unsound. Its body and both monitors were later remounted onto another chassis, G-157.
*Chicago Turret Wagon 6-7-2 (G-248) was built on a 1953 IHC M61 5-ton chassis that was fabricated by the CFD Shops in 1967. Ron Heal photo*
In 1977, the unit was re-designated as G-157, featuring a 1951 GMC M135 2½-ton 6×6 chassis. It was affectionately known as “Big Mo.†The Civil Defense had previously modified the vehicle, and the CFD Shops completed the installation of the twin deluge monitors, which could still deliver up to 10,000 GPM. This version was painted in the classic CD blue and white colors, making it instantly recognizable.
*Chicago Turret Wagon 6-7-2 (G-157) was built on a 1951 GMC M135 chassis and was fabricated by the CFD Shops the same year. It was dubbed ‘Big Mo’. Ron Heal photo*
“Big Mo†saw extensive service over the years, often deployed to major incidents where its powerful water delivery system was crucial. However, the company was disbanded on February 13, 1975, marking the end of an era for this iconic unit.
*Chicago 6-7-2 (G-248) was on a 1953 IHC M61 5-ton chassis that was fabricated by the CFD Shops in 1967. Ron Heal photo*
*Chicago 6-7-2 (G-248) was on a 1953 IHC M61 5-ton chassis that was fabricated by the CFD Shops in 1967. Ron Heal photo*
After being taken out of service, “Big Mo†was eventually placed in the CFD boneyard. The final image shows the once-proud turret wagon, now resting quietly after years of dedicated service.
*6-7-2 (G-157) ‘Big Mo’ at the CFD boneyard after being removed from service. Bill Friedrich*