Glossary
Handtub: a fire-fighting apparatus consisting of an often tub-shaped reservoir of water pumped out through a hose by means of a pump with brakes that are rocked up and down by a number of men on each side of the apparatus. Normally pulled by hand. Also called a hand pumper or hand engine or Enjine.
Brakes: Long handles, usually a pair but sometimes more that are pumped up and down by the firemen to operate the pump in a reciprocating motion. Most handtub pumps are piston type pumps with 2 pistons. Normal pumping rate is 60 complete up and down strokes per minute.
Side Stroke Style: The brakes are oriented so that the firemen stand on each side of the handtub while pumping. Other common style is end stroke.
Crane neck: A style of handtub employing curved steel bars to attach the front truck (axle assembly) to the body of the handtub which allows the large front wheels to turn ninety degrees. This permits the engine to maneuver in tight locations and still have large front wheels.
Class: Handtubs are grouped into size classes based on the diameter of their pump pistons. Class A is 7 inches and larger, class B is 4-1/2 to 7 inches, class C is smaller.
Muster: A competition event for firemen. For handtubs the event consists of how far a stream of water can be "thrown". Class A engines are capable of over 200 feet.
Squirrel-tail: A method of carrying the suction hose. The hose remains connected to the pump inlet and wraps up over the top of the handtub.
Brakes: Long handles, usually a pair but sometimes more that are pumped up and down by the firemen to operate the pump in a reciprocating motion. Most handtub pumps are piston type pumps with 2 pistons. Normal pumping rate is 60 complete up and down strokes per minute.
Side Stroke Style: The brakes are oriented so that the firemen stand on each side of the handtub while pumping. Other common style is end stroke.
Crane neck: A style of handtub employing curved steel bars to attach the front truck (axle assembly) to the body of the handtub which allows the large front wheels to turn ninety degrees. This permits the engine to maneuver in tight locations and still have large front wheels.
Class: Handtubs are grouped into size classes based on the diameter of their pump pistons. Class A is 7 inches and larger, class B is 4-1/2 to 7 inches, class C is smaller.
Muster: A competition event for firemen. For handtubs the event consists of how far a stream of water can be "thrown". Class A engines are capable of over 200 feet.
Squirrel-tail: A method of carrying the suction hose. The hose remains connected to the pump inlet and wraps up over the top of the handtub.
Do they really work?
Here are some clips of them in action at a muster:
Links
There are several web sites that have more information on handtubs.
Handtub Junction - find almost anything about handtubs here
Handtub Junction - find almost anything about handtubs here
Society for the Preservation and Appreciation of Antique Motorized Fire Apparatus in America - although the name includes "motorized" many members have hand or horse drawn apparatus
PNW SPAAMFAA is the local chapter of the national organization and hosts local events each year.
Fire Gold is a website of a professional gilder and decorator, primarily of antique fire engines. Here you will also find several photos of a twin of my handtub.
