What's under your cab? Cummins vs. Detroit

[voltage1256 42]

Just wanted to see a discussion on why go with one rather than the other? I can't seem to see if Detroit even supplies for Fire Apparatus anymore...

[antiquefirelt 994]

We've been speccing Cummins for the last two major apparatus purchases. The only real reason is that one of our call members is a retired Cummins Diesel Mechanic trainer, thus he knows the engines inside and out. He also provides a direct conduit to many "insiders" so that any question doesn't long for an answer. Having no other preferences (service for either is the same distance away) this seemed like a good idea. So far it's paid off, though it means nothing to anyone outside our FD.

[Reliance 29]

I think you need Kool Aid if you want a Detroit

[grumpyff 1,159]

According to this article, Detroit Diesel is in an exclusive agreement with Pierce. http://www.fireapparatusmagazine.com/articles/print/volume-14/issue-3/features/2010-emissions-standards-limit-apparatus-engine-choices.html . I've operated many apparatus with Detroits, and never had any major problems with them.

[Tanker 10eng 140]

Our engine 119 has a Detriot in it, but our new T 10 has a Cummins.... just from the test drive of the tanker at the plant, I like the Cummins better... But once we have it in house I will be able to comment more... I think in the end, it will be like some like Fords, some like Chevy.

[IzzyEng4 427]

Operated many trucks with Detroits and Cummins. I prefer Detroit but both are good engines.

Now if Waukesha started making engines for fire trucks again..........

[voltage1256 42]

From what I've read and heard now I guess Detroit has decided to leave supplying apparatus with engines due to the zero emissions requirements. I guess that just leaves Cummins and CAT but I haven't heard anything good about CAT's being thrown in emergency vehicles, supposedly they run into problems as they were built more for highway trucking than stop and go, pumping etc...

[IzzyEng4 427]

Navistar is really pushing their MaxxForce engine now I see with the adds in various trade mags.