The surface of both cages is, therefore, available as a strainer, and any obstruction entering with the water is carried to the opposite side, to a point where it can be removed, without first detaching the suction hose.
The driving mechanism supplied with the American Pump is shown by Figs. [389] and [394], which are perspective views engraved from photographs. It may be noted that the design is practically compact and well balanced, and embodies many excellent advantages found in no other type of fire engine.
The pumps, steam cylinders and driving parts are built as a unit, and have no direct connection with the boiler other than the necessary stays and pipe connections, all of which are readily accessible and visible for inspection at any time.
The steam cylinders used in connection with the pumps are of the ordinary slide valve type. The valve chests are easily opened from either side of the engine for examination, and the valve rods are made from a special composition and can not corrode. The valve motion is simple, and there is nothing connected with the steam ends that may not be quickly understood.
Fig. 410.
Maximum Dimensions of Steam Fire Engines.
| SIZE OF ENGINE. | LENGTH OVER ALL. | WIDTH OVER HUBS. | HEIGHT OVER DOME. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WITH POLE | WITHOUT POLE | |||
| Double Extra First | 25 ft. 3 in. | 10 ft. | 6 ft. 7 in. | 10 ft. |
| Extra First | 24 ft. 10 in. | 9 ft. 10 in. | 6 ft. 5 in. | 9 ft. 10 in. |
| First | 24 ft. 5 in. | 9 ft. 6 in. | 6 ft. 2 in. | 9 ft. 6 in. |
| Second | 23 ft. 11 in. | 9 ft. 1 in. | 6 ft. | 9 ft. 1 in. |
| Third | 23 ft. 2 in. | 8 ft. 11 in. | 5 ft. 9 in. | 8 ft. 11 in. |
| Fourth | 22 ft. 11 in. | 8 ft. 7 in. | 5 ft. 9 in. | 8 ft. 7 in. |
| Fifth | 22 ft. 3 in. | 8 ft. 5 in. | 5 ft. 6 in. | 8 ft. 5 in. |