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My fire department is getting ready to purchase a new fire truck. We have the choice of two engines, Detroit series 60 or the Cummunis ISM. All of our trucks minus one have the series 60. We have never had any issues with the engines. The salesman is telling us that the Cummins ISM, won't have the DPF stuff on it if we went that route, the Detroit would. What are your preferences, ideas, concerns, etc with these two engines? One better than the other? Any info would be helpful. Thanks Dave

We ran the old tires for probably six months, ride never improved. Then the tires started to throw rubber. The new ones seem to be a huge improvement.

The old were XDN2, pretty sure...they made the truck wiggle and jiggle, and started to throw rubber. I will have to look for the model of the new ones, I don't remember.

Well, after a visit from a Michelen rep, they agreed to go half way with us on a new set of tires. They are the same load rating, but a different design...still Michelen. Truck drives like a dream again. Must have been something with the first set. Thanks for the replies and Happy Easter Dave

Here is a link to an article about bio in an ASE newsletter: http://www.ase.com/Content/ContentGroups/S...s_the_Story.pdf

Yeah, I figured probably the wrong load range, pressures are good Thanks Dave

Nice lookin truck! Dave

But even when the truck was brand new with matched virgin rubber...the truck road like a dream. That is why I wonder that there are different grades, or pliability?

I am no expert on truck tires, most of my mechanical experience is with light vehicles, but I assume there must be some differences with rubber compounds used. Some softer and some harder? One of the fire engines at the fire department I work at, got a new set of rear tires (Michelens), I don't recall what brand of tire was on the the truck before. Anywho, the engine used to be a joy to drive, seemed solid and gripped the road. Ever since the new hoops, the truck is a real turd! Feels like a wet noodle. The slightest lane change and the thinks feels like shes going to roll! Need nerves of steel to drive it. I suppose now that they are on there, we will have to live with them, even thought everyone that drives it is bitching. Dave

Congrats! A new Mack Man! Dave

I can dream that maybe next year my "B" will be there! But still in pieces!LOL! Who knows, maybe the money tree in the back yard will produce a crop this year, and I'll miraculously have some spare time to finish the truck LOL! Dave

Went to the show today. It was great! We really enjoyed ourselves! Trent, and Stark, great looking trucks! Dave

They look good to me as well, and would also be interested in a set. Dave

I used a mack base like HK suggested, had the bleeder and everything. A real easy "bolt on". Works well and again mack parts. Found my base on ebay for about $10 I have a picture in my restoration gallery, you can kind of see it. Dave

OK, so what about the oil type? Was asked if 15-40 was alright to use. I think the engines require 30. That seems to be the oil used in older diesels. 15 -40 used in newer engines. Would there be any difference running one or the other? Dave

Just came back from the show. My first time going...and WOW! Lots to see! Thanks for the pics!

Progress, as always slow. Trans number two is about ready for some paint. Frame is totally stripped and I am exploring the option of refinishing. Looking at paint vs. powder. I am eally thinking in the direction of powder, unless someone can talk me ot of it. Any thoughts? Anywho some pics in the gallery, will try and post something more current here soon. The picture of my avatar is my truck that is now in pieces. Dave

Saw the Lone Star at the Chicago Auto Show...It gets my vote as UGLY!

Recieved transmission number two, slowly started to work on it yesterday. Not to rub it in, but the large nut on the rear came off real easy just like the last. I guess my impact gun has large nuts!LOL! Any way everything looks good on the initial inspection. I will keep poking at it. I have not checked out the speedo gear yet, will do so and let you know the condition etc. if you are still interested. Dave

Cool! I am heading to the Louisville show and look forward to seeing the TITAN! Dave

Mine was actually a 2 1/4 socket...book said otherwise. So they are probably the same. Dave

The speedo gear in the broken unit looks ok. If the one in the replacement trans is ok, I can hook you up. Will keep you posted. Dave

Well forget the seal for now. After separating the trans for cleaning and resealing, the rear case cracked upon installation...UGH!! There was already a crack in the top of the case that had been repaired at some time, so it was already weak. Anyway a costly mistake! Luckily I know a guy that I can get a trans from. Two steps forward, about eighteen back, and a few sideways!!

Finally got the tools and the time to get the rear of the trans apart. Mine came apart easy with a 3/4 impact wrench. Removed the yoke and then the rear cover and the seal is inside of the cover. Looks easy enough...just need to find a seal now. Dave