Do you use C4500 Ambulances?

[aaronmrnd]

I need help with inside information on experiences (good or bad) with the use of ambulances on a C4500 chassis (GMC or Chevy). My department is in the process of purchasing two new ambulances and we need information from EMS personnel who have driven or ridden in the back of an ambulance on a C4500 chassis. I have plenty of feedback from mechanincs who love to work on this type of vehicle because it is easy to access the engine compartment. Currently, in San Diego Co. there are no departments who use the C4500 so I am unable to get feedback localy. Can you please help us make a wise decision? Thanks,

Aaron
Poway Fire Department

[DaSharkie]

There was just an article JEMS about these beasts.

MEDIC in Charlotte/Mecklenberg, NC uses several of these units apparently.

Might want to give them a call. This is a very busy system and they ought to be able to help tell you about the pros and cons of the units.

[pocambu]

First let me be upfront. I do sale ambulances on the side but I am still employed full time as a medic. Now that being said - MEDIC would indeed be a great place as they have ran the C4500's since they came out. They have also worked closely with the folks at LINK air ride to work out issues with the ride etc. Also Boston EMS runs the C4500's. As far as ride they drive like a dream, turn on a dime. Can seem to be a little top heavy at times and of course the ride in the pt comp't is rougher than say a E450. I do know also Alburqurqe(forgive spelling) NM is/has taken a large order. Also Alexander County in NC has one. As a matter of fact they are sending it to MEDIC's shop for a retro fit(update) of the LINK air ride(They have a 2005 and LINK updated the system in 2006). If I can shed anymore light please let me know, Neal Craig,NREMTP

[FTMPTB15]

Lets see.. yes, MEDIC uses several of these ambulances with a 4-door chassis. I would contact someone from MEDIC ( www.medic911.com ) or (704)943-6000 and get their feedback, MEDIC responds to more than 80,000 calls a year so they should know how well they hold up in a big city environment. Although not all of the ambulances are these 4500s, they still run quite a few smaller Chevys. Here is what they look like:
http://mishilo.image.pbase.com/v3/13/537113/1/50340761.CMPD_IMP.jpg

Also, this site has some good information: http://www.emtcity.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=5267&sid=0d3aa9882107860fa25056f44555601f

Garner EMS in Garner, NC also used to run one. Although, they now run with two Internationals and have moved the GMC to a slower station. Their Chief might be able to help you as well, their site is www.garnerems.com . Go to their "Contact Us" page to get the name and number.
http://www.garnerems.com/images/Vehicles/New%20Trucks/NewChevUnitFront.JPG
http://www.firenews.net/contents/graphics/ad_02032006a1.jpg

[Weruj1]

we just got 4 in here and so far so good ............also didnt we discuss this before ? maybe in the apparatus forum ?

[aaronmrnd]

There was just an article JEMS about these beasts.

MEDIC in Charlotte/Mecklenberg, NC uses several of these units apparently.

Might want to give them a call. This is a very busy system and they ought to be able to help tell you about the pros and cons of the units.

Thanks, your information will be very helpful.

Aaron.

[aaronmrnd]

I think I have enough resources to make us make an informed desicion. Thank you for all your help.

Aaron.

[skipatrol8]

under the thread gmc/chevy 4500--good or bad? its in apparatus innovation. lots of info. a 4 door chassis on an ambulance? what for? i can see extended cab but not 4 door.

[DaSharkie]

under the thread gmc/chevy 4500--good or bad? its in apparatus innovation. lots of info. a 4 door chassis on an ambulance? what for? i can see extended cab but not 4 door.

In the article, Medic said that they have a lot of thrid riders and students and logistically it made better sense.

To a point I agree with them. I hated riding in the box while doing my third rider time or as a student. I get nauseous in the back of a the rig when I am doing nothing. I feel horrible - this would have been great.

[FTMPTB15]

In the article, Medic said that they have a lot of thrid riders and students and logistically it made better sense.

To a point I agree with them. I hated riding in the box while doing my third rider time or as a student. I get nauseous in the back of a the rig when I am doing nothing. I feel horrible - this would have been great.
Exactly the reasons stated above, why have a student riding in the box when you can have them sitting behind you and you can discuss the previous call, protocols, "their way of doing it", life, or what the chick two cars over looks like! :eek: ;) :D

[DaSharkie]

Exactly the reasons stated above, why have a student riding in the box when you can have them sitting behind you and you can discuss the previous call, protocols, "their way of doing it", life, or what the chick two cars over looks like! :eek: ;) :D

You dirty bird! :p

[LeuitEFDems]

In the article, Medic said that they have a lot of thrid riders and students and logistically it made better sense.

To a point I agree with them. I hated riding in the box while doing my third rider time or as a student. I get nauseous in the back of a the rig when I am doing nothing. I feel horrible - this would have been great.
I agree with ya Sharkie (as usual). The ONLY time I even got remotely car sick was riding with FDNY for medic class, stuck in the box peering through the little window between the box and front as we're flying from midtown to downtown. The services I work with all have the passthrough on the van chassis as well as the boxes.