Chicago,IL Auction, 1982 SEAGRAVE SNORKEL FIRE TRUCK

Is this the snorkel they have had in reserve status and use occasionally or a different one?

I find it interesting that "the rear axle has been removed and stored in the For transport"?  No mention was made about the unit not being drivable etc., since it would've been a lot easier to tow it instead of removing the axle.
 
I just can?t imangine trying to drive that rig around a place like the City of Chicago with that huge front overhang. How did they drive that thing making turns into narrow streets with poles and trees near the corner ?

Many of guys that have been around awhile know that Chicago was the first city to introduce the fire apparatus referred to as a the ?Snorkel?.
 
I'm wondering if that "rear axle removed" was a misprint and they mean rear drive shaft instead. That is a common towing practice.
 

This is the snorkel in question, taken mid 80's @ Engine 18's quarters. This is/was in sad shape, pump wouldn't work, transmission problems, etc.
 
The first Snorkel device designed and built for the fire service was this 50' Pitman Snorkel on a tandem-axle GMC chassis with bodywork by Pierce. It was originally built for Chicago but was rejected because of weight and the tandem axle. Nearby suburb of Bedford Park purchased it. Smeal was going to refurb it after years of sitting outside but it was too badly rusted.

 
A common scene at any Chicago multiple was SS-1's 55' snorkel and at least one large, 85' or more large snorkel, here Snorkel 5. Also visible is 6-7-5 large turret apparatus. Taken early 80's. Chicago still runs 3 55' snorkels as part of the Snorkel Squad concept, a 2 piece unit.

 
Follow up on this. One bid for 2200 dollars from a South Side scrap yard. Check your local CVS or Walgreens for razor blades.
 
grumpy grizzly said:
Follow up on this. One bid for 2200 dollars from a South Side scrap yard. Check your local CVS or Walgreens for razor blades.
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They won't make any money on me
 
Might be more to this story. The owner of it is considering offers for it, asking price is 10K, firm. Will keep you in the loop.
 
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