Product News
December 6, 2023
Meet the Can-Am Defender: A Versatile Solution for Fire and Rescue Operations
If you’re a fire department considering a UTV, consider the Can-Am Defender Max Limited Upfitted by QTAC.
Published on:
September 15, 2023
When it comes to fire trucks, there is a lot of weight that comes with the specialist firefighting equipment needed onboard. And for those who don't have a fire truck yet and are looking to purchase one, you may be wondering if your UTV can support the weight of such items. As experts when it comes to UTV skids, we are going to discuss the weight limits of UTVs and what you may need to do in order to accommodate a fire truck. We will also provide a link to our UTV guide, which will give you more information on specific makes and models of UTVs for those looking to invest in a fire and medical response vehicle.
First of all, it is important to note that UTVs are not meant to support the fire truck's weight. However, they can still be used as fire trucks with some modifications. The average fire truck weighs around 26-30 tons, while the maximum weight limit for a UTV is 1,000 pounds or less. This means you will need to make some changes to your UTV in order to support fire truck equipment. And if you ignore the weight limitations of your UTV, chances are you'll run into a number of problems along the way, such as decreased performance and handling issues. Which we're sure you can understand, is not something you'd want to experience when responding to a medical emergency or rushing to the scene of a fire, right!
So, what can you do in order to make your UTV fire truck ready? One option is to add heavier-duty suspension components, such as shocks or springs, to support the added weight of fire truck equipment. You may also want to consider swapping out the wheels for ones that can handle the additional load as well. And lastly, it's important to constantly check and maintain the components of your UTV fire truck in order to ensure it is functioning properly and able to support its additional weight.
Another way to counteract added weight is to install a fire skid, which can hold the necessary firefighting equipment. But you'll need to bear in mind that the fire skid itself will add weight to your vehicle, so it is important to choose one that is lightweight but still sturdy enough for firefighting. But it is far better than trying to load up your cabin with additional supplies and hoping it will still have enough power to perform as a fire truck.
When adding new shocks or suspension to your UTV, it is important to consider the type of terrain you will be using the fire truck on. For example, if you plan to drive the vehicle on rough and rocky terrain, you may want to invest in more durable shocks in order to accommodate this.
It is also important to consider the weight limit for your specific make and model. You will want to choose shocks that can support the weight of both the fire skid and equipment, as well as any additional passengers who may be riding in the UTV fire truck.
If you are considering using a UTV as a fire truck, it is best to invest in specialist fire skids. These skids are designed specifically for use on UTVs and often come with recommendations for the necessary suspension and shocks.
To learn more about the different makes and models of UTV fire skids, check out our UTV guide here.
Ultimately, it is up to you and your fire department to make the decision on whether or not a UTV fire truck is right for you. But if you do decide to go for it, just remember the weight limitations and consider making modifications in order to support fire truck equipment successfully!
