American LaFrance JO / JOX

The straight-frame Model JO and JOX was the industry’s fist compact, cab forward service aerial. The JO/JOX established the basic configuration of American aerial ladder trucks for many years to come. This pioneering design placed the engine and driver ahead of the front axle. An extremely wide cab enveloped the entire front end of the vehicle.

The compact JO/JOX was significantly shorter than a conventional six-wheel tractor-trailer aerial ladder truck. With an overall length of 40 feet 30 inches (12,76 meters), the JO/JOX would fit into any fire station that could house a standard city service ladder truck. Best of all there was no need for a tillerman to steer the rear end of the apparatus.

The new four-wheel service aerials were built in two versions: the standard JOX had open ladder racks and conventional rear fenders. The deluxe JO model had fully enclosed ladder beds and streamlined teardrop-shaped rear fenders. Hydraulically-operated three-section steel aerial ladders were available in 65, 75 and 85-foot lengths. A four-section 100-foot ladder was added two years later.