In the ever-evolving landscape of firefighting, staying ahead with practical upgrades is paramount. The Super Singles conversion kit, installed on the Super 6™, Super 3™, and Super SAR™ trucks by QTAC, has a proven track record in a variety of applications. And as part of an effective brush truck build, it serves as a transformative upgrade with a multitude of benefits. Let's break down the positives and negatives of this kit, keeping firefighters in mind
The Positives:
Off-Road Advantages:
Increased approach and departure angles improves maneuverability in rough terrain.
Elimination of dual rear wheels reduces the chances of debris getting stuck between tires.
Larger surface area on the tire provides enhanced traction, especially in soft terrain.
Wildland Compatibility:
Ideal for wildland firefighting due to the increased off-road capabilities.
Addresses the needs of municipalities seeking trucks for the wildland-urban interface (WUI) and rough terrains.
Quality Tires:
The kit includes Continental MPT-81 tires, offering an industry-standard, aggressive tread pattern.
Load rating compatible with the 19,500GVWR on the chassis ensures durability and performance.
Aesthetic Appeal:
The kit enhances the visual appeal of the truck, drawing attention on the road and during exhibitions.
What are the cons of a super single conversion?
Height Increase:
Potential challenges in vehicle maneuvering due to the increased height.
Tire Wear Concerns:
Without proper air pressure and rotation, tire life degrades well below the expected 20,000 mile rating.
High cost (approximately $750-$1000 per tire) can lead to substantial expenses.
Installer Insights
Installation Challenges:
Installing the kit involves dealing with large, heavy springs, particularly challenging to position correctly.
A time-consuming process, with a typical install taking 16-20 hours.
Experienced Personal Required:
The difficulty of the installation process suggests that first-time users may need 2 to 3 days for completion.
Skilled installers like Chuck H., with experience and expertise, are crucial for a successful installation.
Why QTAC Chooses the SUPER SINGLES Kit
Chassis Upgrades:
The Ford F-550 and Dodge Ram 5500 chassis, when modified with a lift and larger tires, demand a robust kit to handle the upgrades.
Buckstop has a proven track record and long history in aftermarket suspension and bumper upgrades.
Ongoing Collaboration:
Working closely with Buckstop for over a five years, QTAC has influenced the development of additional components to enhance the kit.
Kit options include an aftermarket steering stabilizer and other components to improve overall truck handling.
The Buckstop Super Singles kit used in QTAC builds offers an attractive solution for increasing your brush truck’s capability, particularly for those operating in off road wildland environments. While it brings notable advantages, potential downsides such as tire wear and installation challenges should be carefully considered based on individual needs and priorities. As with any significant modification, a thorough evaluation of your department’s specific needs and requirements is crucial.
In the video below, watch how we began a super single kit installation on our Ford F-550 fire truck build.
Is a super single conversion right for you? Contact the QTAC team with any questions or for expert advice to help you get started.
