Pumping Apparatus Driver/Operator
Lesson 11 — Operating Fire Pumps
Skill Sheet 11-1
Engage and Disengage a Power Take-Off
(PTO) or Front-Mount Pump for
Pump-and-Roll Operation
Name
Date
Prerequisites
Skill Sheet 4-1 — Start, Idle, and Shut Down a Fire Service Pumping Apparatus
Skill Sheet 4-1a or 4-1b — Drive a Fire Service Pumping Apparatus
References
NFPA 1002, 5.2.1(B), 5.2.2(B), 5.2.4(B)
Pumping Apparatus Driver/Operator Handbook, 2nd edition, pp. 316 – 317
Introduction
The procedure for engaging power take-off (PTO) and front-mount pumps is generally the same.
Keep in mind that both of these types of pumps may be operated in either stationary or pump-and-roll
modes. The procedure for engaging the pump differs slightly depending on which mode is used.
The information contained in this skill sheet provides sound, generic advice on the operation of fire
department pumpers. While many of the basic principles are the same for all makes and models of
pumps and apparatus, each manufacturer’s equipment has special nuances with which the
driver/operator must be familiar. For that reason, the driver/operator should always consult the
operator’s manual for the apparatus and pump being operated.
Criteria
Criteria are to be determined by the authority having jurisdiction. AHJ can choose point value for
each skill step, and decide how many points are required to pass this skill. Each AHJ may also denote
critical criteria.
Available Equipment and Materials
One firefighter
Apparatus with PTO or front-mount pump
Apparatus operator’s manual
Pumping Apparatus Driver/Operator
Skill Sheet 11-1
Skill Steps
Points
1st Attempt
Yes
No
Pump-and-Roll Operation (Manual Transmission)
1. Bring the apparatus to a full stop and set the
parking brake.
2. Disengage the clutch (push in the clutch pedal).
3. Place the drive transmission into neutral.
4. Operate the PTO control.
a. This may be a lever, push-pull control, or
other type switch located in the cab.
b. On some front-mount pumps, this may be a
lever located in front of the pump. In this
case, it is necessary to exit the cab at this
time and then reenter the cab to complete
the process.
5. Place the drive transmission into the gear
recommended by the manufacturer.
6. Release the parking brake.
Pumping Apparatus Driver/Operator
Skill Sheet 11-1
2nd Attempt
Yes
No
Skill Steps
Points
1st Attempt
Yes
No
7. Engage the clutch (let the clutch pedal out)
slowly.
a. Once the PTO has been properly activated
and the pump is engaged, an indicator light
on the dashboard should light. This signals
that the pump is operational. If this light
does not illuminate, repeat the procedure.
Disengaging the Pump
1. Use the throttle control to reduce the engine to
idle speed.
2. Disengage the clutch connecting the pump to
the front-of-engine PTO.
3. Operate the PTO control in the direction
opposite of that used to engage the pump.
a. The PTO should now be deactivated and the
pump no longer in gear. The pump indicator
light should no longer be illuminated. If it is
still lit, repeat the procedures.
Pumping Apparatus Driver/Operator
Skill Sheet 11-1
2nd Attempt
Yes
No
Skill Steps
Points
1st Attempt
Yes
No
Pump-and-Roll Operation (Automatic Transmission)
1. Bring the apparatus to a full stop, and set the
parking brake.
2. Place the drive transmission into neutral or
leave in drive, depending on the manufacturer’s
instructions.
3. Operate the PTO control.
a. This may be a lever, push-pull control, or
other type switch located in the cab.
b. On some front-mount pumps, this may be a
lever located in front of the pump. In this
case, it is necessary to exit the cab at this
time and then reenter the cab to complete
the process.
4. Place the drive transmission into the gear
recommended by the manufacturer.
5. Release the parking brake.
a. Once the PTO has been properly activated
and the pump is engaged, an indicator light
on the dashboard should light. This signals
that the pump is operational. If this light
does not illuminate, repeat the procedure.
Pumping Apparatus Driver/Operator
Skill Sheet 11-1
2nd Attempt
Yes
No
Skill Steps
Points
1st Attempt
Yes
No
2nd Attempt
Yes
No
Disengaging the Pump
1. Use the throttle control to reduce the engine to
idle speed.
2. Disengage the clutch connecting the pump to
the front-of-engine PTO.
3. Operate the PTO control in the direction
opposite of that used to engage the pump.
a. The PTO should now be deactivated and the
pump no longer in gear. The pump indicator
light should no longer be illuminated. If it is
still lit, repeat the procedures.
Total Points
Points Possible
Points Required
_____ Points Awarded
Evaluator Comments
Pass _____
Fail _____
Evaluator Signature ____________________________________
Date ________
Proctor Signature ______________________________________
Date ________
(If applicable)
I was informed of the skill steps missed that resulted in the failure of this skill.
Candidate Signature ___________________________________
Pumping Apparatus Driver/Operator
Skill Sheet 11-1
Date ________