By the late 1930s, Packard and the General Fire Truck Corporation of Detroit had each established a solid reputation in their respective fields of luxury automobile and fire equipment production. The manufacturers’ joint effort yielded a scant four examples of Packard fire trucks, this one being the only Super Eight model.

From the dashboard forward, the sheet metal and most of the mechanicals are derived from a 1938 Packard Super Eight, including the smooth, inline, eight-cylinder engine with nine main bearings. One mechanical change incorporated for work duty was the use of a seven-speed Saginaw manual gearbox which allowed for operation under a variety of conditions. The rear portion of the vehicle comes from Detroit-General with upgrades including 20" wheels.

Originally purchased by the fire chief of the Eau Claire Fire Department in Wisconsin, it served Engine Company No. 5, Station No. 5, on Water Street. In 1954, it passed to another fire station, this one in nearby Fall Creek. Housed indoors at both of these fire stations, the truck was driven on a limited basis. After more than 60 years, it passed to private ownership for the first time in 1999. Restoration ensued, including new paint, chrome, and an engine rebuild. The traditional fire engine red paintwork contrasts with green flooring and trim in the truck bed. Gold leaf trim and lettering was completed, finished to original appearance and proudly stating its prior service as No. 5 for Fall Creek and Eau Claire.

The driver’s compartment features the traditional Packard dashboard layout with seats finished in red leather upholstery. The cab has an open design, without side doors, to facilitate quick entry and exit during emergency maneuvers.

Dimensions are impressive at 24' long and 7 1/2' tall, yet it is remarkably manageable due to the fine Packard mechanicals. Designed as a pumper truck, the tag from the Northern Pump Company states a pumping capacity of 500 gallons per minute. It comes fully equipped with all the traditional fire truck accouterments including siren, flashing lights, ladders, nozzles, and hoses.

Acquired by the current owner in 2017, the Packard has since been a fixture of a prominent collection of American classics. With the passage of time, its utilitarian focus has evolved to a broader nostalgic appeal, making it the ideal complement to any fine motorcar collection or as a stand-alone piece of Americana. The massive Packard would be welcome in parades or on the show field, where it would undoubtedly be a strong candidate for a People’s Choice award. Regardless of the occasion, it is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and the center of attention. Its known history and limited ownership only add to its desirability.

*Please note that this vehicle is titled by its engine number.