1953 Pirsch Pumper Fire Truck Custom Hot Rod

Zoom Classic Cars presents this One-of-a-Kind Cummins Diesel Powered Show Truck | Former Scituate, Massachusetts Fire Department Apparatus. Some custom builds simply stand apart from everything else on the road. This incredible 1953 Pirsch Pumper Fire Truck is one of those creations. Originally delivered new to the Scituate, Massachusetts Fire Department, this former first-response fire engine has been transformed into an extraordinary diesel-powered custom cruiser by a longtime heavy construction professional and fire apparatus enthusiast whose vision was to preserve the truck\'s unmistakable heritage while creating a fully modern, roadworthy hot rod unlike anything else in the collector vehicle world. Founded in 1899 by William H. Pirsch in Kenosha, Wisconsin, the Pirsch Company earned a reputation as one of America\'s premier builders of premium fire apparatus. Throughout the first half of the 20th century, Pirsch pumpers were renowned for their rugged construction, exceptional craftsmanship, and dependable performance, serving municipal and volunteer fire departments across the United States. By 1953, Pirsch\'s custom-built pumpers typically featured heavy-duty commercial chassis, powerful gasoline engines, manual transmissions, and centrifugal pumps capable of delivering approximately 750 to 1,000 gallons of water per minute, making them among the most capable fire engines of their era. Today, this truck retains the unmistakable character of its firefighting past while incorporating modern engineering that makes it an absolute pleasure to drive. The original Pirsch cab and frame remain intact, while the rear seating area and pickup-style bed were professionally custom fabricated to complement the truck\'s original lines. Original running boards remain in place and are accented by the factory Pirsch fire extinguishers, preserving an important piece of the truck\'s history. Even the original 12-volt SirenLite mechanical siren remains operational. Power now comes from a 1996 Thomas School Bus donor with only approximately 60,000 miles, supplying the legendary 5.9L Cummins turbo diesel engine paired with an Allison automatic transmission. The drivetrain delivers outstanding reliability, effortless torque, and modern drivability. An electric cooling fan, four-wheel disc brakes, and custom front and rear air suspension provide a driving experience far beyond what anyone would expect from an 8½-ton vintage fire truck. The truck rides on massive custom chrome wheels wrapped in impressive Super Single rear tires, while the front wheels feature polished chrome covers highlighted by dramatic conical lug nut spikes. Completing the aggressive stance are dual exhaust outlets terminating ahead of each rear wheel through enormous custom chrome tips that announce the truck\'s presence long before it arrives. Finished in striking Burnt Orange, the body presents in excellent condition and showcases countless hours of fabrication and finish work. Custom LED headlights, integrated LED turn signals, side accent lighting synchronized with the turn signals, a custom fuel filler, and a custom flip-top canvas roof blend vintage styling with contemporary functionality. Inside, the craftsmanship continues with premium long-haul truck-inspired air ride brown vinyl bucket seats, matching custom rear bench seating, and neatly concealed air suspension components beneath the rear seat. A handcrafted aluminum dashboard houses an array of custom gauges and switches, while a beautiful custom wood steering wheel and diamond plate flooring complete the industrial yet refined interior. Measuring approximately 27 feet in length and weighing roughly 8½ tons, this remarkable custom commands attention wherever it goes. Despite its size, it drives exceptionally well thanks to its modern drivetrain, upgraded suspension, and contemporary braking system. This is far more than a showpiece. It is fully capable of serving as an unforgettable vehicle for: Parades, Weddings, Promotional events, Charity functions, Business advertising, Fire department celebrations and of course Car shows and cruise nights. Wherever it appears, it becomes the center of attention. Included with the sale is a clean Massachusetts title in the owner\'s name. Custom builds of this magnitude are rarely duplicated and virtually never replicated. Combining authentic firefighting history, exceptional fabrication, modern diesel performance, and unmistakable presence, this 1953 Pirsch represents an opportunity to own one of the most unique custom trucks you\'ll ever encounter. Call Jeff for more information or to schedule a viewing of this incredible Pirsch build. Thanks for Looking.

Sign in to ask a question about this vehicle.