Ahrens Fox History

Updated: June 13, 2010

City of Tucson - 1928 Ahrens Fox Restoration

History - In 1927, the City of Tucson (COT)
purchased a new Ahrens Fox pumper. The Model M-S-3, Serial # 1750
was shipped January 16, 1928. After years of service and
show, the rig was disassembled for rebuild in the mid 1990’s.
Unfortunately, budget cuts and retirements hindered the project. In
mid 2006, retired firefighters were able to secure funds and began
the long over due project.

Committee - The rebuild committee is headed by Retired Captain
Chuck Thim and includes Ted Geare, Todd Vossler, Dan Larkin, Doug
Edwards, Lee Sebring (*) Don Uthe, Al Moritz, Super Chuck Damerow,
John Roads, Jeff Corey and Jay Smith. Many other people are
volunteering to assist. Chuck Thim was the last person to drive the
FOX when it headed for its long hibernation.

* Lee was never a firefighter. He was the 1st paramedic
instructor that taught the 1st Tucson paramedic class.

Future - When the FOX is completed, it will join the Steam
Pumper at the new Station 1 - a combined station, headquarters and
museum being built in the SW parking lot of the TCC.

Status - The rig is in good shape, just disassembled. The engine
is in good shape, the pump was rebuilt in the mid 90’s. It requires
some sanding, prep, priming, some body work and re-assembly. All the
parts were carefully stored and it is believed that the entire rig
is together.