Terrell approves overhaul of ladder truck engine after shop inspection finds extra damage

The Terrell City Council on Oct. 21 approved repairs to the fire department’s 2017 Smeal ladder truck after a shop inspection found damage beyond a planned seal replacement.

Fire Chief Shane Lacroix and Battalion Chief Aaron Castle told the council the truck was initially brought in for an oil leak and alternator issues. After the alternator and batteries were serviced, Cummins technicians disassembled portions of the engine to reach front and rear seals and discovered internal damage — a small abrasion and a puncture in the intake area — that had been drawing road debris into the engine. The damage required additional repairs that expanded the cost estimate.

The council approved repairs not to exceed $61,020.88 so the apparatus can return to service; staff said the work should take about three weeks. The repair includes replacing seals and repairing the damaged intake area. Staff compared options, including a rebuilt replacement engine; the department reported that a rebuilt replacement would cost about $92,000 and would carry a longer warranty, but the council approved the rebuild/repair of the existing engine because it preserves the known configuration and was the more economical near‑term option.

Why it matters: The ladder‑quint is the department’s only ladder truck in service; while the unit is under repair, the department is operating a reserve apparatus and relying on mutual/automatic aid for ladder responses. City staff said funds are available in the adopted general fund budget to cover the approved amount; staff will return if additional budget amendments are necessary.

Vote: Motion carried unanimously; council approved the expenditure not to exceed $61,020.88.