L 911 4x4 Fire Truck

Post by **iank** » Sun 16 Feb, 2014 11:13 am

Hi Guys, It's been quite a while since I have contributed to the forum, but here I am again, having just purchased an ex Australian Military 1980 L 911 (OM352A engined) 4x4 Fire Truck. I know VERY little about these vehicles, so in general I'd just love to catch up with anyone who may be prepared to let me "pick their brain" via this forum.

I imagine there is quite a few of these units in private hands now, and perhaps quite a number of us "MB Enthusiasts" who may be interested in sharing knowledge. I have not had it delivered home yet, but when I do, I'll post some photos.

In the mean time is there anyone out there who may be able to assist me. I won't post a specific question just now - but I do have a few "ready to go", and probably many more coming up.

Cheers, Ian K

Post by **parker** » Sun 16 Feb, 2014 1:14 pm

http://www.truckworld.com.au/buy/used/t ... 60731.aspx

?

Post by **AMG** » Sun 16 Feb, 2014 5:36 pm

Also worth looking at the AGOA forum if you aren't a member already - please see the direct link from the forum home page.

Post by **John Green** » Sun 16 Feb, 2014 6:54 pm

parker wrote:http://www.truckworld.com.au/buy/used/t ... 60731.aspx

?

Interesting to see these starting to pop up on the various truck sales sites. No doubt purchased at the recent DAF disposal auctions. Hopefully that is where iank go his?

Post by **iank** » Tue 18 Feb, 2014 11:50 am

Hi Guys,

Thanks for the comments you have made. John, I didn't buy my truck at the auctions - probably would have paid alot less if I had?? I got mine from a dealer who bought up quite a swag of them together. Anyway, I hope I will be happy with what I've done. Time will tell. Once I get hold of it, and get a chance to check absolutely everything, I guess I'll know. Keep you posted!!

Ian K

Post by **iank** » Thu 27 Feb, 2014 6:50 pm

Hi all,

I'm back again! Because of my new interest in MB trucks, and particularly the L 911 range, I have downloaded a HUGE Shop Manual database (supposedly covering virtually all (?) MB trucks) from "emanualonline.com". Looks like it has got real possibilities (perhaps) - BUT my problem with it is that it asks for the "6 digit vehicle model designation" as a starting point to search for any data. Now despite quite a bit of "searching around" I have been unsuccessful in finding any possible 6 digit number pertaining to any L 911 that this database recognises.

Dumb question probably, but can anyone point me in the right direction,please.

Cheers, Ian K

Post by **pastelgrey300D** » Fri 28 Feb, 2014 10:01 am

Have you tried the first 6 digits of the chassis number?

I.e. for this truck: http://www.truckworld.com.au/buy/used/t ... 50047.aspx it would be 353102?

That is usually the case for passenger cars, could be different for trucks though..,

Post by **Dr Diesel** » Fri 28 Feb, 2014 10:07 am

iank wrote:Hi all,

I'm back again! Because of my new interest in MB trucks, and particularly the L 911 range, I have downloaded a HUGE Shop Manual database (supposedly covering virtually all (?) MB trucks) from "emanualonline.com". Looks like it has got real possibilities (perhaps) - BUT my problem with it is that it asks for the "6 digit vehicle model designation" as a starting point to search for any data. Now despite quite a bit of "searching around" I have been unsuccessful in finding any possible 6 digit number pertaining to any L 911 that this database recognises.

Dumb question probably, but can anyone point me in the right direction,please.

Cheers, Ian K

Hi!

The 6-digit model designation is the first 6 digit part of the 14-digit chassis number.
All models of the 911-series have chassis nr. starts with WDB353XXXZZZZZZZZ (or 353XXX...). The "353" means type. And the XXX means modification (L, LP, LS, LAK, etc.).
[attachment=0]Chassis-no.JPG[/attachment]

Salut!

Post by **Dr Diesel** » Fri 28 Feb, 2014 10:20 am

And the 4x4 models of the 911-series was designated as LA/LAK/LAF/etc., where "A" is for "Allradfahrzeug" (ger. for AWD).

Post by **Dr Diesel** » Fri 28 Feb, 2014 10:22 am

iank wrote:Australian Military 1980 L 911 (OM352A engined) 4x4 Fire Truck

And if you'll post or send me the VIN-code (chassis number), I'll try to decode it.

Post by **iank** » Fri 28 Feb, 2014 2:58 pm

Gee Guys,

I just appreciate your collective assistance more than I can ever express. You have enlightened me on a number of fronts, from not only understanding the "6 digit" code, to knowing about the "A" for AWD, etc. All knowledge that I really do appreciate.

Armed with my additional knowledge, I have "played" with the database again, and am now pretty sure that the reason I can not get it to recognise any numbers I tried, is simply that it does not contain any info on 911's of any type! So much for info on virtually every MB truck made. . . . . I knew it was too good to be true, but it does have stuff on L 1418's etc. which will (at least) have the same engine as mine.

As I think I mentioned in my first post to this thread, I have not had the truck delivered yet - probably next week. So I'll provide any appropriate updates, after I have a better chance to look carefully at it. And some photos, too, if you're interested?

Must rush off now to drive my BCI (school bus) - Chinese import. I don't own, just drive it. Delightful to operate - when it is running properly, but has been nothing but trouble (and VERY costly) ever since we bought it new 5 years ago....

Cheers, Ian K

Post by **70499** » Fri 28 Feb, 2014 7:28 pm

iank wrote:And some photos, too, if you're interested?

We all like MB photos here

Some other answers to your question may be found here.......although a mix of German and English chit chat.

http://www.allrad-lkw-gemeinschaft.de/phpBB3/

Post by **iank** » Mon 10 Mar, 2014 7:09 pm

Hi again Guys,

I now have the LA 911 delivered home. It sure is a large "beast" but I could not be happier with it, both in its general condition for a vehicle of its age (1980) but also all the "niceties" with which it is equipped as a "serious" fire fighting appliance.

Dr. Diesel here is the Chassis No should you have time to try to decode it for me? I would appreciate any info you may obtain.
35310224686217

I have a few photos which I will attempt to attach hereto (I am pretty rusty, so hope they attach ok??)

Cheers, Ian K

Post by **iank** » Tue 11 Mar, 2014 6:08 pm

Well Guys,

Now you've seen the pictures - next for another dopey question or two, if you would be kind enough to tolerate me??

I am still not sure about all of the driver controls in this new (to me) vehicle - when I first inspected it someone started the engine for me. However a little later when I decided I had better shut it down, everyone else having "disappeared" I could not find the "stopper". A head bobbed up and pointed me to a foot button on the floor. Sure enough pushing that down DID stop the engine. However, after a bit more looking around I am wondering if this is not an exhaust brake control??? There appears to be such a brake fitted just under the turbo outlet!
If my guess is correct, can anyone tell me where/what the "real" engine stopper/cutout is??

Once again, over to the wonderful "brains trust".

Thanks for your indulgence, regards, Ian K

Post by **parker** » Tue 11 Mar, 2014 10:35 pm

Both.

Post by **Dr Diesel** » Thu 13 Mar, 2014 1:05 am

iank wrote: Dr. Diesel here is the Chassis No should you have time to try to decode it for me? I would appreciate any info you may obtain.
35310224686217

I'm sorry, but unfortunately this chassis no. is not found in the elec. data-base.

Try to contact local dealer to order the data-card from archive.

Post by **Hendrik** » Thu 13 Mar, 2014 10:04 am

iank wrote:If my guess is correct, can anyone tell me where/what the "real" engine stopper/cutout is??

I am not familiar with this particular type of truck but round about that time they used a 'throttle control knob' in some OM352 powered vehicles. My mog has one which is basically an adjustable thing that can be pushed down to stop engine, pulled up so that the engine can be started and it can be turned to adjust idle speed.
In this picture I can see a knob which looks sort of like mine, down on the cover for the engine.

Post by **iank** » Thu 13 Mar, 2014 6:26 pm

Hi again,

Firstly, thanks Dr Diesel for checking the dB for my chassis No. Pity it is not there - could it be associated with the vehicle being (presumably) purpose built for the ADF? Anyway, thanks again, and in the fulness of time I will speak to the local distributor about chasing up the card.

Hendrik, you too of course are very much one of the "wonderful brainstrust" to whom I referred. Thank you for your photo, and comments regarding my "stopper". You were spot on!!! I just hadn't looked carefully enough - the button that you pointed out on the engine cowl was it. I had worked out that it acted as a hand throttle, but following your comments, I found (when I pushed hard enough) that the button could be pushed in. Voila! The engine shut down.

Thank you both most sincerely. (Oh, by the way I think I may be able to come up with another couple of "driver controls" questions in the very near future. Please stay tuned!)

Best regards, Ian

Post by **iank** » Sat 15 Mar, 2014 6:37 pm

Hi Guys,

I did warn you the other day - another couple of questionable questions about my "new" LA 911. There are a couple of controls (well buttons) on the dash that I really have no knowledge of their purpose. Once again, I am asking the "brains trust" if you can give me any clues, please?

I have attached 3 photos to hopefully help. The last (a longer shot) shows the locations of both buttons, then the other 2 show them closer up, but unfortunately the markings on them are pretty much rubbed off.

Any clues would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers, Ian K

Post by **Hendrik** » Sat 15 Mar, 2014 11:52 pm

Button 1 is probably the anti freeze for the windscreen wiper washer, button 2 is the passenger ejection button.
Passenger whinging about how noisy and slow vehicle is, push button, passenger door will open and seat will tilt.

Post by **iank** » Sun 16 Mar, 2014 10:35 am

Hendrik,

Once again many thanks for sharing your insightful knowledge of all things Benz!!

I should have guessed you would have answers. I am especially appreciative for your info on "Button 2". That would be the usual seat for the "dear lady" - I shudder to think what wrong timing in activation of the button would have done for the harmonious marriage!! Boom, Boom!!

Cheers, IanK

Post by **iank** » Sun 13 Apr, 2014 5:57 pm

Hi again folks,

I would like to let you know I am looking for a speedo cable for my (much afore mentioned) LA911 fire truck. I can hear you chuckling already at my chances of finding one, but I thought at least it is worth putting it out there, before I chase up the possibilities of having one made.
Any leads or suggestions, as always, would be greatly appreciated.

Regards and happy Easter,

Ian K

Post by **AMG** » Sun 13 Apr, 2014 8:30 pm

Give MB spares a call - john's probably got one laying around somewhere. if not he'll know where to get one.

Post by **Dr Diesel** » Sat 26 Apr, 2014 3:59 am

iank wrote:Hi again folks,

I would like to let you know I am looking for a speedo cable for my (much afore mentioned) LA911 fire truck.

Original p/n 004 542 43 07 (old p/ns 002 542 62 07 & 005 542 27 07) + order additionally 000 542 24 47.
Price is approx. 100 €.

Ciao!

Post by **Mercmad** » Sun 27 Apr, 2014 8:25 am

Flexidrive services can make you one too,if you get the broken one off for a sample . If you aren't going to road register that monster,what are you going to use it for? watering the pastures?

Post by **iank** » Mon 28 Apr, 2014 7:50 pm

My thanks to Dr Diesel and Mercmad for their helpful comments regarding my search for a speedo cable. I will certainly keep a note of those part nos. (just in case). I have a price ex Germany from MB Spares, but it is pretty pricy - close to AU$400!

I have had some discussions with FlexDrive and sent them some measurements and photos - I do not have an old cable to show them. Anyway, it all sounds do-able with them, and I am taking the speedo, and drive spigot out of Transfer Box in to them in the next couple of weeks so they can (hopefully) make one. (I'll let you know how I actually get on!)

Oh, and my use of the fire truck? Principally for fire protection, burning off, etc. on my own property. Also irrigation water pumping for our olive grove. So very little intention (or need) to road register it at this stage. However my attitude toward it is that the truck is in immaculate and complete condition, with the only thing missing that damn speedo cable. So, sooner or latter it should be replaced. Then it would be very close to passing a Road Worthy!

Cheers, Ian K

Post by **iank** » Sat 10 May, 2014 5:01 pm

I'm back again, Guys,

And I'm thrilled to bits!! I took some measurements, photos and the speedo down to FlexiDrive Agencies in Kensington (Melb). Found them to be a great and very helpful group of blokes. They had a complete new speedo cable made within 2 working days and the quality appears top rate. I picked it up yesterday. Cost well under half that of genuine which would have to come from Germany.
I have fitted it and tested today. All systems - GO!!

Check them out sometime. They stock (or manufacture) all sorts of interesting automotive bits and pieces. Link - http://www.fdrive.com.au/products/02/speedometer.php If phoning speak to Anthony or Bruno.

Take care, Ian K

Post by **Benz911** » Wed 03 Dec, 2014 9:22 pm

G'day,
I bought one of those ex army LA911B fire trucks as well. I'm currently trying to track down parts for mine as well. I wouldn't mind keeping in touch with you as we might be able to help each other out. I notice your last post is some months ago so I hope you are still about.
I have some previous Benz truck experience having owned a 1960 327 as well as a few 1418's. I have been buying parts from White Diesels in Sydney, prior to that I bought from JP Blacktown Diesel repairs but JP snr appears to be out of the business and JP jnr doesn't have the same passion for the older trucks that his father did so I didn't have any luck with parts there. Whites so far have been able supply everything I needed except for a new steering wheel which I'm still trying to source. I'm also in the market for another one of these trucks if one comes up at the right price. I hope that info is of some help to you. My email address is george.granger@bigpond.com so don't hesitate getting in touch if you think I might be able to help out with some info.

Post by **Farmer Tim** » Wed 18 May, 2016 12:20 am

Hi Guys,
Have 2 questions on LA911B the Ex Army have single rear wheels and the Rural fire service has dual wheels.
Can the Army trucks take dual wheels without modifications except for the wheels?
Is the reason for the difference in GVW ( Army -10400kg ) and ( Fire service - 11500kg ) the dual wheels?
Many Thanks
Tim.

Post by **GrampiansMerc** » Wed 28 Sep, 2016 1:14 pm

iank

Just registered my firetruck, ISUZU not Mercedes, in Victoria for the grand total of $80.

Good insurance TAC cover, not to mention much more useful, than just on my own property.

Post by **Dr Diesel** » Mon 09 Jan, 2017 9:39 am

Farmer Tim wrote:Hi Guys,
Have 2 questions on LA911B the Ex Army have single rear wheels and the Rural fire service has dual wheels.
Can the Army trucks take dual wheels without modifications except for the wheels?
Is the reason for the difference in GVW ( Army -10400kg ) and ( Fire service - 11500kg ) the dual wheels?
Many Thanks
Tim.

Single rear wheels was an option (code 363/A81).
Single wheels axle have different wheel hubs & shafts at least.

Post by **CraigB** » Mon 09 Jan, 2017 11:28 pm

I've only just seen this. I have fond memories of many hours with one of these in the Blackwood CFS in Adelaide hills, also learning to drive in it and getting my truck license. It was white, our previous V8 international was red and all CFS changed over to white around that time. Trying to date it in my head i think we were out in the old Inter for Ash Wednesday in '83 and then we got it shortly after that - funny how money and support appeared after that! Pretty sure it had dual rears.I can't remember tank capacity but perhaps that was the difference for duals if it has a bigger tank. The truck rear looked bigger than yours. Adjacent brigade Eden Hills got a Ford Louisville with CAT diesel at about the same time but that was 2WD with diff lock and less ground clearance. I know theirs was faster, particularly on a hill like the Shepherds Hill Road, but no match for the 911 with ground clearance and on some of the firetracks around the district. But along with the other Mitcham Hills Brigade, Belair (which i can't remember now their truck at that time) we tended to work well together and to our strengths. Good times and good memories.... maybe apart from some of the car crash rescues, never my favourite cutting people out of cars!

Post by **iank** » Tue 02 May, 2017 6:59 pm

Good'ay all, particularly Farmer Tim and GrampiansMerc,

How slack am I? Here it is May 2017, and I am making comments to posts from last year. So sorry! Actually, I have only come back onto our wonderful forum after far too long, mainly because of my 350 SL "Restoration Project" (first commented upon under the W107 category back in 2008 - more on that soon - see W107 s).

Now, over the past few years I have learned alot more about my "beautiful" LA911 Fire Truck, so to comment to you "Farmer Tim", I do not believe dual rears could be put on the type of ADF truck that I have. Apart from any (perhaps more technical reasons) the rear body superstructure would not allow the clearance to reverse the rear wheel on the axle, even though the brake drum looks like that wouldn't present any problem. Hope that is of some (very belated) use?

I am very interested to have just found your post "GrampiansMerc", regarding your road registration of your Isuzu Fire truck for such an "attractive" price. Can you elaborate on how you went about achieving that, please? I must admit, I have never even questioned Vic Roads about rego for mine, just assuming it would be far too expensive, based on other truck (even primary producer) costs. I would love to read any further comments you can make. I would also love to hear some of the "specs", etc of your fire fighting rig.

Best regards, iank

Post by **Tony From West Oz** » Tue 02 May, 2017 7:48 pm

I drove a 911 in the early '80s. It ran 'super singles' all round. This was supposedly to avoid issues with rocks being caught between the tyres of the duals on the back and chewing out the sidewalls of the tyres.

It did a lot of off road work along the gas pipeline from Karratha to Perth, moving radio shelters that provided communications for the pipeline construction vehicles and camps, which moved every couple of months.

I was the first driver from Perth to Karratha and I had trouble keeping it in a straight line until I dropped the front tyre pressures to 60psi. 100psi was just too much for it with those tyres.

Brings back memories.

Post by **iank** » Wed 03 May, 2017 10:39 am

Hi Tony,

I am pleased to bring back some memories for you. My LA911 also runs "super singles" - pleased to report they are in very good condition. I don't like the prospect of stumping up for a new set!!

Having operated one of these beauties in your past, I wonder if you may be able to help me with the purpose of a (yet un-identified) control button on the dash of my unit. I did post the question, with others, on this board a couple of years ago, but I still don't know what "Button 2" (as I labelled it on that post) is for. In case you can help I will attempt to attach the same photo again here.

P1040564a.JPG

BTW, I do now know that "Button 1" is Rear Diff Lock, and the "Light" switch is for the cab light.

Cheers, iank

Post by **Bartman4800** » Wed 03 May, 2017 1:02 pm

That looks like the Pre-Glow button to me.

Now I think we established before that your engine is direct injected, so no glow plug arrangement.
However, some diesels had a heating circuit in the air intake, to make starting in very cold conditions (never to be found in Oz) more easy.

Follow the wires, you might find something new

Bart

Post by **iank** » Wed 03 May, 2017 3:18 pm

Thanks for the comments, Bart. My engine is an OM352A, which I am pretty sure is direct injection. I guess I am just being lazy in not having tried to follow the wiring, as you suggest. The symbol on the button looks to me like a single wheel beside a pair of duals (which my truck does not have) with (perhaps a "switch" linking/unlinking from one side to the other. It just interests me what it is actually symbolising!! No stress though!

iank

Post by **Dr Diesel** » Mon 02 Apr, 2018 7:52 am

iank wrote: ↑
Wed 03 May, 2017 10:39 am
I still don't know what "Button 2"

"Slow-fast" switch for windshield wipers.

Post by **AMG** » Mon 02 Apr, 2018 10:04 am

Most of the data for these vehicles is on microfiche - and to obtain a datacard, you would need to contact MBCC.
The EPC does contain the vehicle information for all the subassemblies, and the different chassis types etc, but it's a lot of data to wade through - which is why the datacard would help as it contains the axle numbers, engine numbers transmission numbers transfer case numbers etc etc etc...
for the dash, I grabbed a screenshot just as an FYI.
Dr. Diesel has already answered for you, but this is a case where I think owning a copy of the EPC would be incredibly valuable for you, as it allows you to ascertain accurate information about the MB powersystems parts/diagrams.

Screen Shot 2018-04-02 at 08.45.00.JPG

It might also be worth getting in touch with John Madour who works in MB powertrac in Melb HQ.

I may be able to pass on some information - or he may even be able to access the datacard - no guarantees though. I will ask later in the week and see if he is able to get a DC for you through work.
(if it costs $ do you still want it? If I recall MBCC charge a small fee for datacard copies)

cheers,

Post by **iank** » Wed 04 Apr, 2018 10:35 am

.
Many thanks to Dr Diesel, and to AMG for their valued posts.

I only just "found" your posts last night, so my apologies for being a little tardy in responding. As soon as I read Dr Diesel a "light bulb" went on in my head, and immediately the penny dropped. "Button 2" is adjacent to the wiper on/off, so how obvious?? Can't believe I didn't make the connection. Thank you so much.

Thank you AMG for your comments regarding the possibility of obtaining a Data Card for my vehicle. I certainly had no idea how to go about it previously, and any assistance you can give me, contacts, etc. I would certainly appreciate. I am very happy to contribute reasonable costs to getting any such useful data. Please let me know what my next move should be.

Best regards,

Post by **AMG** » Wed 04 Apr, 2018 5:14 pm

Ian, PM me with your contact details (phone/email) and I'll pass them onto John, and ask him if he can assist. In the event he cannot, he should know who to pass the request onto internally.

cheers,
Joe