REC Report Summaries
The following is a list of REC projects and reports. REC makes printed reports available to state, federal and local government wildland fire agencies. Requests should be on agency letterhead. Some older reports may have historical significance. For these, the term dated is used in the summary. Many reports and newsnotes are available online and have links to their Adobe Acrobat (.pdf) file.
REC
online publications require free Adobe Acrobat Reader software for
viewing or download.
Project 69, Utility Terrain Vehicle Specifications
REC has assembled specifications for many of the currently available models of utility terrain vehicles (UTV's). This report is intended to help agencies select the UTV that best fits their needs.
Project 68, Constructing Fire Break Using Compressed Air
This report researches the option of using compressed air to produce a fire break in hardwood leaf litter fuel type. It compares the effectiveness using compressed air to what is commonly used in many areas, the backpack leaf blower.
Project 67, Portable Fire Fighting Unit for Grapple Skidders This is a new look at an area REC has worked in before (refer to Project 26, Portable Fire Fighting Unit for Skidders). Since that report was published, the trend in logging operations seems to be toward grapple-type skidders. This report documents a water tank design specifically for grapple skidders. |
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Project 66, Flatbed & Water Tank Design for M1008 and Commercial Pickups
This is a REC conversion plan for the M1008 CUCV (GM 5/4-ton pickup). The REC design removes the cargo box, replacing it with a steel flatbed. A slip-on style tank and pump unit can be added. The flatbed is a good compromise for off-road work in the woods. Much of this information will be transferable to other pickup-style fire units of similar weight. The details include the flatbed design, purchasing specifications for the polypropylene water tank, and photos depicting one configuration for installing apparatus.
Project 65, Wildfire Transport Units
This web-based report contains information about transport units used by various wildland fire fighting agencies across the country. Use the links and information in the report introduction to submit your equipment data for incorporation into the report.
Project 63, 6x6 Wildland Fire Engines
This is a total revamp of REC's resources about
converting a military 6x6 to wildfire engine use. Includes all 2.5 and 5-Ton models. Information about load capacity. Includes designs for water tanks, metal cab top, brush protection, in-the-cab controlled telescoping emergency light mast and other accessories.
Note: Project 63 replaces Projects 22, 25, and 39.
Project 62, Converting the M-1009 Blazer to Cab and Cargo Box Style. Project 62 shows a way to modify the widely available military M-1009 Blazers into a vehicle with a cargo box. The plans remove the rear mounted cap, modify it, add a rear panel and window. The amount of water capacity will be limited. About 60 gallons, depending on the weight of other added components. This still makes it useful for grass fire duty and patrol units. REC has two other publications that relate to the M-1009. Newsnote #10 tells how to convert the M-1009 24-volt electric system to 12-volt. Newsnote #12 discusses potential tank capacity and weight considerations for the M-1009. |
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Project 61, Slip-On Tank Units
Includes a discussion of important issues for those buying or constructing slip-on tanks for mounting in pick-up truck units. Tank material selection, tank construction issues, determining load capacity, and securing the tank are some of the topics discussed. An interactive calculator to predetermine the weight of the completed slip-on unit is part of the project. Click here to find out about the calculator.
Project 61-B, Indiana's 90 and 150 Gallon Aluminum Slip-on Tank Units
This report features two designs for aluminum construction slip-on tanks. The 90 gallon tank was developed for use in mid-size (i.e., GM "S" series) pick-up trucks The 150 gallon unit fits the standard size pick-ups. This is solely a design report that consists of construction plans for these water tanks.
Project 60, M548/M1015 Track Vehicle
An evaluation and design project for the unarmored version of the U.S. Military Bradley Track Vehicles. The M548 is a large vehicle with overall dimension of about 105 inches wide by 227 inches long. Expect a final weight of about 20,000-23,000 pounds after modification. Despite its’ relatively narrow track, we found that it worked well in marshes that had good root structure.
Additionally, there are design packets available for the M548 series. These contain complete detailed drawings to fabricate the following assemblies.
Project 60A, M548 Cab Design. Shows steel cab to replace the canvas model.
Project 60B, M548 Bumper and Limb Risers.
Project 60C, 12 V Alternator System. Shows one way to add a separate 12 volt DC electric system to the M548.
Project 60D, 800 Gallon Water Tank and Mounting for M548.
Project 59, Expansion Ring Extractor
This is a design for a device that extracts the expansion rings from 1.5 inch linen or synthetic forestry hose. The device is designed to be used with a hose ring expander machine. The report shows a design for use with Canadian style quarter turn couplings. An adapter for use with threaded couplings is also discussed.
Project 58, Low Cost Remote Controlled Turret Revised with Nozzle Pattern Control Option. This report includes drawings that can be used to produce or contract the production of a 1 inch remote turret. The turret features 360 degree rotation and elevation control. The estimated cost of materials and labor is less than $1,000. In March 2000, REC released the revised version that includes remote nozzle pattern control. This can be added to the original version and adds about $250, including labor. |
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Project 57, Collapsible Fire Rake
REC developed a durable light weight collapsible fire rake. The design is detailed in this report. The rake is available for purchase by qualified fire agencies through General Services Administration (GSA) as national stock number (NSN) 4210-01-387-1392. Click here for photos.
Project 56A, Evaluating the Hummer and HMMWV Series Chassis for Wildland Fire Engine Use
REC spent several years evaluating both commercial and U.S. Military versions of AM General’s Hummer. The report details the findings and discusses important points about modifying them for wildland fire use. Included are discussions about water tank placement and capacity for various versions.
Project 56B, Hard Cab Design for HMMWV
A report for those obtaining FEPP or surplus Military HMMWV units. It details the design for adding a hard cab to the units that come with canvas tops.
Project 56C, HMMWV 12-Volt Alternator Bracket
A design report that shows a system for adding a 12-volt alternator to a military HMMWV. It includes tips on making an alternator bracket, lists part numbers for available pulley and bracket parts. In this system, the 24-volt electric system remains. The 12-volt system is utilized for running fire appliances such as radios, pump starters, and reel motors
Project 55, Fire Control Use of All Terrain Vehicles
This report discusses some safety aspects of all terrain vehicles, especially as they relate to potential use in wildfire control. Carrying loads and pulling trailers are a couple of the topics presented. The report also contains recommendations useful for writing specifications.
Project 54, Small Agricultural Tractors for Wildfire Use
An analysis of utilizing smaller 4-wheel drive agricultural tractors in fire control.
Project 53A, An Analysis of M561 Gamma Goat Vehicle for Wildfire Use
The Gamma Goat was a 6-wheel drive 5/4-ton U.S. Military vehicle. It consisted of a cab and trailer portions. REC evaluated the vehicle for fire control use in this report.
Project 53B, Hard Cab and Tank Designs for the Gamma Goat M561
This report details the hard cab design and slip-on tank size and placement for the M561. It also shows a brush guarding scheme. See Project 53A listed above for REC's other Gamma-Goat report.
Project 51, Wisconsin Foam Module
This project details the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ original compressed air foam system (CAFS). Set up as its’ own compressor and pump module, it could be used to retrofit fire engines with CAFS or incorporated into new engine designs.
The Aqua-Duk is a 12 volt DC motor driven roller pump designed for use on pickup trucks with small slip-on tanks. This, plus its' relatively low cost make Aqua-Duk unique. The report provides test data about the electrical needs and pumping capabilities of the system.
Project 48, Vehicles for Fire Management
This report is a truck chassis primer aimed at wildland fire agencies. It is meant to help familiarize one with the definitions used by truck manufacturers. It discusses specification development and has a chart to estimate potential water capacity of a chassis based on the Gross Vehicle Weight rating. The appendices contain a national summary of truck cab and chassis needs done in 1988 and a federal performance standard for wildland engine cab and chassis was developed between the NWCG and GSA in 1990.
Project 47, Michigan 1-Ton Commercial 4x4
This project report is no longer available. Project 61 is the replacement.
Project 46, Seat Coverings for Forest Fire Tractors
The report discusses flammability of crawler tractor vinyl seat coverings. It also discusses flame resistant materials for making new seat covers.
Project 45, Wisconsin 3-Ton & 5-Ton Truck, Tank & Pump System
This project report is no longer available.
Project 44, Michigan Large Skidder
This project documents a specialized tank and plow system installed on a forestry skidder.
Project 43, Wisconsin Pickup Truck, Tank and Pump System
This project report is no longer available.
Project 42, Michigan 5-Ton 6x6 Retardant Engine (On-Demand System)
This report shows a method of mixing phosphate based long-term fire retardant in a specially designed wildland fire engine tank. The system utilized a segmented tank with compartments for 1200 gallons of water, 160 gallons of liquid concentrate retardant, and a 125 gallon mixing chamber. An eductor was used to mix concentrate and water at the desired mix ratio.
Project 41A, An Analysis of Ground Application Retardant.
Liquid and powder-type long-term ammonia phosphate products were evaluated for use by ground-based wildland fire engines. The report includes information on application and mix rates, results of controlled burning tests, and field trials. It also discusses ground-based retardant delivery systems.
Project 41B, An Analysis of Foams, Long & Short Term Retardant
This report summarizes tests which compared Class A foams, long-term ammonia phosphate-based fire retardant, and short-term gel retardant. The work was done in cooperation with the Forestry Canada's Petawawa National Forestry Institute. Available online as an Adobe Acrobat file.
Project 40, Tanker Handbook: Military 880 Series 1-1/4 Ton, 4x4 Cargo Truck (Dodge W-200)
This project, updated in January 1992, features both slip-on tank design for the U.S. Military M-880. The M-880 was a 1-1/4 Ton Pickup Class 4x4 cargo truck. A similar version was produced commercially as a Dodge W-200. The project also includes drawings for producing a heavy duty bumper, grill, and cab protection. Further, the publication has a reprint of the military M-880 operator’s manual. REC Newsnote # 5, Weights and Loading of the M-880 Series Vehicles, is also attached as an addendum in the 1992 printing.
Project 39, Tanker Handbook: Military 5-Ton 6x6, 1500 Gallon Low Profile Tanker
This project was updated and replaced by Project 63.
Project 38, Wisconsin Tractor/Tanker Unit
This project report is no longer available.
Project 37, USFS 1000 Gallon 6x6 Engine
The Huron Manistee National Forest purchased a new 2-1/2 Ton 6x6 chassis from the U.S. Department of Army in 1978. REC produced a 1000 gallon engine on this chassis based on the plans found in REC Project 22. This is a first attempt to purchase a new military unit from the Department of Defense for fire control purposes and the report documents some of this process.
Project 36, Plans & Specifications for the Minnesota Walnut Seeder/Husker
This report is no longer available.
Project 35, 6x6 Automatic Transmission Repair Manual
This project report is a dated list of repair manuals and part sources for U.S. Military vehicles. An interactive list of military vehicle parts dealers is locate on this site by clicking here.
Project 34, Tanker Handbook, Military 3/4 Ton, 4x4 Cargo Truck
This project contains drawings for producing a 150 gallon slip-on tank unit and brush armor for the U.S. Military M-37 3/4 Ton 4x4 truck. These vehicles are no longer available through FEPP.
Project 33, Tanker Handbook, Military 1-1/4 Ton, 4x4 Cargo Truck
This project contains drawings for producing a 200 gallon slip-on tank unit and brush armor for the U.S. Military M-715 5/4 Ton 4x4 truck. It also includes a 200 gallon unitized body water tank design. These vehicles are no longer available through FEPP.
Project 29, Michigan Fireline Plow Design
This large format report (11-inch x 17-inch) provides complete drawings for fabricating the Michigan Fireline Plow. The Michigan fireline plow is a double bottom, fixed moldboard, hitch-mounted plow designed for smaller crawler tractors such as a John Deere 350 and 450 series.
Project 28, Hand-Held Infra-Red Spotter
This is a dated report from 1979 that evaluates infra-red detectors for use by fire personnel in mop-up situations.
Project 27, Catalytic Converter Study
This is a dated report that evaluates information about catalytic converters of automobile exhaust systems and the potential for causing wildfires.
Project 26, Portable Fire Fighting Unit for Skidders
This report contains drawings for the Maine Forest Service portable skidder water tank units. These units are designed to hold just under 200 gallons of water and a portable pump. They can be picked up by cable-type skidders fitting against the logging arch, effectively converting a logging skidder to a wildfire suppression unit.
Project 25, Protective Cabs for 6x6 Trucks – GMC & REO
This project was updated and replaced by Project 63.
Project 23, Improved Flashlight
A dated report that looked at improvements for personal headlamps.
Project 22, 1000 Gallon 6x6 Tanker Handbook
This project was updated and replaced by Project 63.
Project 21, Metric Conversion Study
A dated project resulting from the attempt in the 1970’s for U.S. conversion to the metric system. It focused on aids for learning or helping with metric conversion.
Project 20, Trailer to Transport JD350 or Equal
A 1983 report that discusses important considerations when selecting a trailer. It includes tips on how to select a proper truck and trailer combination.
Project 19, Evaluation of Michigan Truck Fire Plow & Floating Hitch
The project report’s intent was to help interested fire agencies determine the value of plowing equipment for wheeled vehicles.
Project 18, Evaluation of Michigan Crawler Fire Plow & Floating Hitch
This report looks at the efficiency of the fixed moldboard-type crawler tractor plows equipped with hitches that float up and down with the terrain.
Project 17, Power Blowers as Fireline Building Tools
This report looks at backpack-style power blowers or leaf blowers used in fire control. This equipment has been used successfully in hardwood hill country such as the Appalachian Mountains and Ozarks. Topics include use and tactics, ways to improve the ergonomics of power blowers, safety topics, and important features for fire control that should be considered when developing purchasing specifications.
Project 15, Truck Specifications
A short dated report that lists potential sources for getting specification data.
Project 13, Evaluation of Bombardier J-5 w/Accessories
The J-5 was a tracked unit used by several fire organizations for work in areas that require low ground pressure. The J-5 is no longer produced.
Project 11, Rustproofing Treatment for Steel Water Tanks
This report lists various coatings that are used to reduce corrosion on steel water tanks. Available online as an Adobe Acrobat file.
Project 8, Schematics of New Jersey Brush Armoring
This project details New Jersey’s method of brush armoring 1970’s vintage Dodge Power Wagons (W-300). While the vehicle is no longer available, the concepts for the brush armoring may be useful.
This is a 1970’s study which looked at high expansion of foam for forest fire control.
Project 5, Rapid Water Evaluation
This report looked at polymer friction reducing chemicals and their advantages and disadvantages in water pumping situations.
Project 4, Jeep Tanker Handbook
Shows the design of pumping system and brush armor for the U.S. Military M-38 A-1 1/4-Ton 4x4 Jeep. This information may be used for the more modern CJ versions of the Jeep.
Project 2, Wiring Conversions on Military Vehicles
This report discusses ways to provide 12 volt electrical power needed for any fire accessories on a 24 volt military vehicle. Several alternatives are presented including a complete exchange of electrical system from 24 to 12 volt, and installation of a separate 12 volt electrical system. See also Newsnote #9, Adding a 12 Volt DC Charging Circuit.
Project 1A, Air Cooled Safety Helmets
This report is no longer available.
Newsnote #17, Easy Access Brake Fluid Reservoir for Military 6x6's
Newsnote 17 provides information on installing a remote brake fluid reservoir for FEPP 6x6's. This allows much easier checking and refilling of the brake fluid, eliminating the need to remove floor panels for access.
Newsnote #16, Commercial Filter Equivalents for Military 6x6's
REC has identified commercially available filter that will work on your FEPP 6x6's. Newsnote 16 documents the manufacturers, their part numbers, and any peculiarities about using a substitute filter.
Newsnote #15, Automatic Transmission Fluid Overheating: New Jersey Forest Fire Service's Solution to High Temperature Problems in Ford F-350 and F-450
This document discusses the causes and problems of high oil temperatures in automatic transmissions. It also provides information on ways to alleviate these problems on popular Ford commercial light duty trucks.
Newsnote #14, Preventive Maintenance for FEPP 6x6 Suspension Torque Rods
Newsnote 14 supplies information on inspection of the rubber bushed ball joints in the torque rods. This document provides information on these components that may keep a minor problem from becoming a major failure and repair problem.
Newsnote #13, Adding a Backup Alarm to Military 6x6's
This document shows a method for adding a backup alarm system to a military 6x6. This will work with either 2.5 or 5-ton models with manual transmission. It utilizes a wobble stick type switch mounted near the gear shift lever. The paper includes a brief description, photos of the mounting and a drawing to make the mounting bracket.
Newsnote #12, Weights & Loading of M1009 CUCV 3/4 Ton Blazer
A single page flyer that lists the load ratings for the M1009 and discusses the potential water load capacity. The M1009 is the U.S. Military version of the General Motors K10516 Blazer. See REC Newsnote #10 for directions to convert the 24 volt electric system to 12 volt on these vehicles. Available online as an Adobe Acrobat File.
Newsnote #11, Weights & Loading of M1008 CUCV 5/4 Ton Pickup
A single page flyer that lists the load ratings for the M1008 and discusses the potential water load capacity. The M1008 is the U.S. Military version of the General Motors K30903 4-wheel-drive pickup. See REC Newsnote #10 for directions to convert the 24 volt electric system to 12 volt on these vehicles. Available online as an Adobe Acrobat File.
Newsnote #10, Conversion of M1008 and M1009 Electric Systems to 12 Volt.
This document illustrates how to convert the quasi-24 volt electric system on these vehicles to 12 volt. The M1008/M1009 were designed for civilian use and are mid-1980's General Motors pickup and Blazer models modified for the military. The underlying electric system is still the civilian 12 volt. This paper presents a step-by-step photo-illustrated direction sheet for doing this conversion.
See also Newsnotes #11 and #12 for guidance on installing water tank units to these vehicles.
Newsnote #9, Adding a 12 Volt DC Charging Circuit
A two page flyer that illustrates a simple way to add a separate 12 volt DC charging circuit to a vehicle which already has a 24 volt electric system. It is directed at those converting a U.S. Military vehicle to fire equipment. It includes a diagram of the circuit and updates a portion of the REC Project 2 Report.
See also Project 2, Wiring Conversions on Military Vehicles.
Newsnote #8, Crawler Dozer Availability, 1994
A small pamphlet that lists widely distributed crawler dozers of 90 hp or less and under 20,000 pound operating weight. Information includes manufacturer, model number, engine model, horsepower, transmission, drawbar pull, operating weight, ground pressure, and top speed.
Newsnote #7, Airbags – Expected Impact of the Safety Equipment on Fire Suppression Vehicles
This pamphlet discusses technical information about airbags and the effect that this accessory may have on modification of pickup trucks for off road forest fire control. It includes information about methods of airbag deployment, driving a vehicle after deployment, reinstalling airbags and adding heavy duty bumpers or brush guarding to these vehicles.
Newsnote #6, Rebuilding Used Crawler Tractors
This pamphlet highlights the John Deere "relife" program for rebuilding used John Deere 350 and 450 tractors. This program was developed by John Deere in cooperation with REC.
Newsnote #5, Weights and Loading of the M880 Series Vehicles
This is a two page note that became an addendum to Project 40. It provides additional information about the gross vehicle and axle weight ratings of the M880 vehicles available through FEPP.
Newsnote #4, Cooling System for Smokey Bear Suit
REC evaluated a personal cooling system for possible use with Smokey Bear costumes. The system evaluated was the MSA Core Control System. Cooling was performed by ice water pumped through small tubing woven into a long underwear-type garment. REC found that the system was generally compatible with the current Smokey Bear suits and was very effective. The primary drawback was the cost of the system.
Newsnote #3, Guidelines for Designing Forest Fire Engines
This pamphlet was produced as a handout to rural fire departments who had obtained Federal Excess Personal Property (FEPP) vehicles for modification for fire use. It discusses vehicle loading, water tank construction, and safety requirements for doing this type of work. It also includes a list of resources that are available, including Roscommon Equipment Center reports. Newsnote #3 is available as an online interactive HTML file.
Newsnote #2, Repowering Military Vehicles
This report discusses repowering packages for U.S. Military vehicles that were developed by Napco International. Of primary interest are U.S. Military 6x6 repower packages. The online version was updated in November 1998 and has a link to Napco's website.
Newsnote #1, Boots for Forest Fire Fighters
A pamphlet that was designed as a handout for potential fire crew members. It discusses important features of boots for those working fireline. It also includes notes on foot care.
Unimog – Model MB 4/94 Equipment Evaluation Report
This is a 1979 report that evaluated an early Unimog model for forest fire control. It included water handling abilities and its’ use as a plowing machine. Unimog is an off road wheeled tractor produced by Mercedes Benz.
Skidders in Forest Fire Control Equipment Evaluation Report
This is an evaluation of the use of modified forestry skidders for fire control. It includes evaluation for fireline construction by plowing, and water tank design and use.
Other REC Project Categories:
[Military Proj.] [Water
Handling] [Line Construction] [Combination]
[Fire Chemicals] [Safety] [Online Reports]
Roscommon Equipment Center - Wildfire Equipment Research and Development