For potential buyers, former firefighting appliances can be an attractive proposition. They generally present well because the authorities recognize them as the most visible part of their profession. They are invariably maintained to the highest level because those brave men and women have to be confident that they will fire up (sorry!) reliably whenever they hit the key. This 1988 Chevrolet V30 Custom Deluxe is a former brush fire appliance that retains its original tank, pump, and hoses. It would be an ideal addition to the equipment on a new owner’s farm for ongoing protection, but there are other options for interested parties to consider. It is located in Manheim, Pennsylvania, and listed here on Bring A Trailer. Bidding sits at $10,000 with time left on the auction.

There is something irresistible about former fire-fighting vehicles. The bold red paint, hoses, and pump will attract people of all ages. This V30 presents well, with its paint in excellent condition. There are no significant flaws or defects, and the panels are equally impressive. Rust is a minor consideration, with the only visible issue being this small spot on the driver’s side rocker. The underside is clean, with nothing beyond some accumulated light surface corrosion on some driveline components. The glass and trim look good for their age, and the “dually” rear wheels add a sense of purpose. While based on a production truck, these vehicles receive purpose-built additions to ensure their effectiveness in the field. This V30 retains its diamond plate front bumper and rear step and a heavy-duty winch for when the going gets tough. Its versatility is enhanced by including a hitch receiver, opening the possibilities for other uses for this classic.

The V30 retains much of its fire-fighting equipment, including its tank, pump, hoses, and reels. The tank’s condition is unknown, meaning an inspection is warranted to confirm it remains water-tight. The owner indicates that the pump and reel are inoperative but feel that reconnection of their electrical supplies may be all that is required to return them to an operational state. The floodlights are intact and functional, although the light bar and siren were removed when the vehicle was decommissioned. Removing the specialized equipment would be straightforward if the buyer isn’t interested in continuing this classic’s life of battling blazes. That opens the possibility of selling those components to recoup some of the purchase price. Once it has shed those items, this V30 would make an excellent tow vehicle.

This classic’s drivetrain offers potential buyers plenty of power and torque, making it an ideal candidate for towing heavy loads. It features a 6.2-liter Detroit Diesel V8, a three-speed automatic transmission, a dual-range transfer case, and power assistance for the steering and front disc brakes. The seller claims power and torque figures of 143hp and 257 ft/lbs, although GM’s own documentation place the numbers at 148hp and 259 ft/lbs. The difference is insignificant, but most owners would find it sufficient for their needs. As previously stated, vehicles of this type are maintained under a “money is no object” philosophy, as they need to be as reliable as is humanly possible. My wife is a firefighter, and I have complete confidence in the equipment she uses for that reason. This Chevy was decommissioned in 1998 and has been in private hands ever since. It recently received a new fuel filter and oil change. The seller supplies no specific information on how it runs or drives but furnishes this YouTube video. It sounds perfect, with the engine running cleanly, the transmission shifting smoothly, and no evidence of rattles or odd noises.

The V30’s interior presents well for its age, with no evidence of wear or physical damage to its black vinyl upholstery. The dash and pad are excellent, as is the rubber floor mat. The speaker grille in the dash pad has been cut slightly to accommodate wiring for the two-way radio (which is gone). The spot in the dash for the factory radio now houses switches for the additional front and rear work and floodlights. The truck also features floodlights operated by the levers on each A-Pillar. The interior needs nothing, and removing the switches to reinstate a factory radio would not be difficult.

In its glory days, this 1988 Chevrolet V30 Custom Deluxe would almost certainly have successfully defended lives and property under extreme conditions. Living in the country has taught me that fire preparedness is vital. When a blaze is licking at your front door, it is too late to think that you should have been better prepared. It could prove a wise investment for those outside the urban sprawl. Removing the pump and associated hardware would transform it into an effective tow vehicle or off-roader. It offers so many options, but which path would you choose?