[quote name='Frank B' timestamp='1306691688' post='441773']
Hanscom AFB MA
78 WLF
unknown photographer
[/quote]
Engine 1, Hanscom AFB, MA
1978 Ward LaFrance P-12D
750/600/55F
P-12-001
USAF-78L482 - First Test Article
This was the prototype P-12D. The Air Force called it a "First Test Article". After testing, an order was placed for 50+ more units, but only 34 more were built before WLF closed down. The booster reel enclosure may only have been on the prototype, I have never seen one on any of the production versions.
My P-8D, 78L481, was delivered to the Air Force at the same time as this rig. No further examples were ordered. These were the first diesel-powered structural apparatus for the Air Force. They all had 216 Hp. Detroit 6V53's with Allison automatic transmissions. The P-12D pump was actually a 1000 GPM pump, downrated to 750 GPM, per Air Force specs.