Engine Bed Mounting Bracket Failure 2016

On Monday, March 7, it was discovered that the bed mounting brackets had failed on two Type 6 Engines located on the Big Piney Ranger District of the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests. The issue was first observed by the Supervisory Fire Engine Operator (SFEO) when one of the engines was parked at the District office. He noticed that one of the boxes “looked a little off”. Upon further inspection, the SFEO realized that the entire bed and pump package had turned counterclockwise on the frame. He discovered that the bed had been mounted to the frame with six pieces of steel strap—all of which were compromised. Two of the straps had sheared completely, two had missing bolts, and two were severely bent.

Engines, Driving, Equipment, RLS, Close Call