Montgomery County Fire Marshal (TX) Bomb Disposal/EOD Vehicle

The Montgomery County Fire Marshal chose LDV to build a bomb/EOD vehicle for their organization. Built on a Peterbilt 348 standard cab chassis, the vehicle features a PACCAR PX-8 380 HP diesel engine and an Allison 3000 EVS 6-speed transmission.

This vehicle features two bi-fold aluminum collapsible fold-out ramps which aid in deploying the organization’s bomb robot while at a scene. These ramps are deployed by opening the two aluminum roll-up doors that have been integrated into the vehicle’s body. VersaTie track and heavy-duty double stud tie down rings secure the robot during transport.

A rear work area has been created with three work stations. Each station includes a monitor, spider base task chair, 20A-125Vac duplex receptacles, and network connections. A communications radio has been installed as well. The printer sits on a slide-out tray that has been integrated into the corner of the overhead shelving. There is also an overhead electronics rack and the Columbia Weather System weather station has been integrated overhead as well. Another monitor has been mounted to the curbside wall next to the curbside entry door that features a cover for the window when additional privacy is needed. A window provides natural light into the area.

In the center of the vehicle is a galley area with a refrigerator, paper towel dispenser, pressurized water system and a stainless steel work surface for durability. Overhead cabinets have been installed with vented door panels as well. Throughout the rest of the vehicle are ample custom-fabricated cabinets and closets for additional storage space. A bomb suit storage area has been fabricated with a heavy-duty stainless steel hanging rod for hanging the organization’s bomb suits. Mesh cargo netting assists with storing the bomb suits and can also be found in the front of the vehicle to keep equipment in the box pan shelving safe during transport.

Two of the body storage compartments feature both interior and exterior access, meaning staff can utilize the equipment whether inside or outside of the vehicle. A storage compartment has also been fabricated to hold a customer-owned ladder and two pike poles on a slide-out tray for simple access and storage. A Tempest heavy-duty non-locking telescoping pneumatic mast featuring a Tarheel motorized antenna mount. There is also a Command Light all electric floodlight tower to illuminate the scene when deployed at night.

Providing electric power to the vehicle when needed is a 20-kW liquid-cooled diesel generator in its own custom-fabricated compartment. A Dometic Weather Pro 18’ awning was installed providing cover to those utilizing the curbside access door or second aluminum ramp. To assist with parking duties, a Zone Defense color backup camera system has been installed. HVAC is handled by three Coleman low-profile air conditioners to keep things cool in the Texas heat. A Quadra® heavy-duty four-point fully automatic one-touch leveling system ensures the vehicle is level no matter what terrain it is parked on.