The Martin Township Fire Department and Township Board are taking a “wait and see” attitude about repairs for a fire truck purchased in 2009 from Cummins of Grand Rapids.
The engine manufacturer is examining the truck for what Fire Chief Earl Wykstra called some serious problems in the areas of exhaust and backup.
The chief said the problems shouldn’t be happening because the truck has only put on 4,051 miles in the past six years the township department has had it.
“It would be ridiculous if we had to pay anything (for repairs),” Wykstra told board members at their meeting Wednesday night. “There’s no way they (Cummins) can say the truck has not been well maintained. They want to do an overhaul of the cylinders and liners.”
He estimated the repair costs will be at least $7,000, and the township shouldn’t really be on the hook for all of it.
“I wouldn’t start slinging mud until we hear back from them,” cautioned Treasurer Sue Tiemeyer.
The board agreed to have the repair work done at Cummins, regardless. They said they eagerly await a response from the engine manufacturer to see if something can be negotiated in adjusting the price.
“If it needs to be fixed, it needs to be fixed,” said Trustee Jim Brenner. “We need the truck and hopefully they’ll do something.”
“We won’t get a dime out of Cummins if we tell them we’re going to haul it away,” Wykstra added.
The township will seen a five-year warranty on the work done.
