The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot Big Bolts The Stovebolt Volunteer Fire Department looking at 62 GMC 4000 Van Pelt

My dad and I are thinking about buying a 1962 GMC 4000 Van Pelt fire engine from the local university surplus program. I'm in community college getting my A.S. in Fire Technology and I'm gonna be a firefighter like by grandpa. I can't find any info., what do you think it weighs and are there any things to look for when inspecting? We're hoping to get this on Tuesday. Any info would be appreciated and I'll update you guys when I see the truck. hope the link works http://www.ucsc.edu/matman/SurplusPictures/fire%20truck.jpg

Looks to be in really nice shape. It also appears to have a V6. I had good luck with one I had in an old pickup.

I'll take a stab at the weight and say it's between 12,500 and 14,000 pounds.

As for inspecting, it's just like any other car or truck you buy. Check the tries, check for water in the oil, look for bare wires, see if the Master Cylinder has fluid...if it's empty you can bet it will need brake work. Check the radiator for anti-freeze, etc.

Hope this helps!

Let us know how the road trip home goes...we love a good story!

Mike B

thanks for the info guys, my mom and I are going to go and test it tomorrow.
UPDATE: we got it.