The Reliable Brake and Rotation Systems Built for Fire Trucks

🔥 When Seconds Matter, Reliability Isn’t Optional

In fire response, equipment failure isn’t just inconvenient—it can cost lives. That’s why fire truck manufacturers and upfitters choose components with precision, compactness, and long-term performance in mind. At the heart of many critical firefighting systems—like aerial ladders, platform rotations, and turrets—are Eskridge’s gear drive and braking solutions.

Built in the USA and backed by decades of field-proven performance, Eskridge’s Model 65, 105, and 130 rotation systems with integral brakes are the go-to choices for OEMs who demand safe, efficient, and compact motion control on every call.

🛠️ Compact Power for Complex Platforms: Meet the Models

Eskridge’s gearboxes aren’t just powerful—they’re space-conscious, efficient, and engineered for extreme duty. In fire truck design, every inch matters. And that’s where the integral brake assemblies make a real difference.

🔩 Model 65 Shaft Drive

Explore Model 65

Compact yet robust for tight installation zones
Lower backlash = smoother turret or ladder operation
Integral brake for space-saving performance

🔩 Model 105 Shaft Drive

Explore Model 105

Ideal for medium-load aerial platforms or rotary systems
Backlash reduction reduces motion during ladder extension
Designed for long-life performance, even in wet and rugged conditions

🔩 Model 130 Shaft Drive

Explore Model 130

Suited for high-capacity platforms or demanding turret rotations
Rugged design with field-proven braking systems
Durable, even under dynamic loads

Each model delivers unmatched torque density and integrates a braking system within the gearbox—reducing both size and maintenance complexity compared to modular solutions.

🚨 Engineered for Emergency Response: Built for Pressure

In high-pressure environments like fire rescue, equipment must respond quickly, consistently, and safely. Eskridge products rise to the challenge with features designed for precision control and longevity.

✅ Low Backlash = Safer Ladder Control

Excess motion during ladder extension or rotation can destabilize operations at height. Eskridge’s Model 65 and 105 offer reduced backlash, translating into safer, more controlled deployment in high-angle scenarios.

✅ Rust-Resistant, Rain-Ready

Fire trucks operate in wet, dirty, and corrosive environments. Eskridge addresses this head-on with chemical plating options that defend against rust and corrosion—extending product life and performance reliability.

✅ Compact Design = More Room for Gear

With a built-in brake system, Eskridge gearboxes shorten the total drive length. That frees up space for auxiliary equipment, hoses, gear storage, or system wiring—helping OEMs optimize every square inch of the vehicle design.

💡 Solving the Common Challenges in Fire Equipment Design

🏅 Quality That Commands Confidence

Choosing Eskridge means investing in a legacy of engineering excellence. Fire truck OEMs rely on Eskridge because they know our systems deliver low maintenance, high reliability, and seamless integration into even the most complex vehicle architectures. When failure is not an option, Eskridge stands as your silent, dependable partner behind the scenes.

📣 Ready to Equip the Front Lines?

Whether you’re a fire truck manufacturer, upfitter, or distributor, Eskridge offers mission-critical rotation and brake systems that meet the demands of real-world emergency response.

✅ Explore our full range of gear drives: Eskridge Gear Drives
✅ Reach out to our engineering team for a custom quote: Contact Us

📞 Need immediate support? Call us today and speak directly with an Eskridge expert.

Eskridge: Engineered to Break New Ground.

Compact. Reliable. Ready when it matters most.

Why Distributors Need Eskridge Rotation & Brake Systems for Aerial Work Platforms

Introduction: The Need for Reliable Rotation & Brake Systems

In the aerial work platform (AWP) industry, safety, precision, and durability are paramount. Whether it’s digger derricks handling utility work or overcenter/non-overcenter platforms reaching heights beyond 50 feet, operators demand smooth and controlled movement. A failure in rotation or braking not only disrupts work but also introduces severe safety risks.

As a trusted manufacturer of high-quality motion control solutions, Eskridge provides advanced rotation and braking systems engineered for maximum performance. The Model 50-130 Gearbox, combined with the Model 90 & 92 Brakes, offers unparalleled load-handling capabilities, precision control, and long-term reliability—making them the ideal choice for OEMs, distributors, and equipment owners.

Key Product Specifications & Benefits

🔧 Eskridge Model 50-130 Gearbox

Eskridge’s slew drive rotator gearboxes are designed for heavy-duty applications and precise rotation. Here’s why they stand out in aerial work platform applications:

✅ Optimized for High Loads:

Engineered for digger derricks with lift capacities above 24,000 lbs
Supports overcenter and non-overcenter aerial platforms reaching 50+ feet

✅ Custom Gear Design for Longevity:

Pinion lead crown gears extend slew gear life
Prevents premature wear, reducing downtime and maintenance costs

✅ Advanced Torque Measurement for Safety:

Torque measuring gearbox option enables control system integration
Ensures operators stay within safe working limits

✅ Speed & Direction Sensors for Smart Operation:

Provides real-time feedback on boom location
Enables OEMs to implement automatic stow functions

👉 View Full Product Details

🛑 Eskridge Model 90 & 92 Brakes

Eskridge’s high-performance brake systems are designed to work seamlessly with rotation gearboxes.

✅ Adjustable Torque for Precise Control

✅ Enhanced Safety & Operator Protection

✅ Reliable Performance in Extreme Conditions

Industry Challenges & How Eskridge Solves Them

⚠️ Challenge #1: Increasing Slew System Capacity Without Redesigning Equipment

A common challenge in aerial work platforms is improving load capacity while keeping the existing machine structure intact. Many OEMs struggle with redesigning entire boom systems when upgrading equipment.

✅ Eskridge Solution:
Eskridge works directly with customers to modify the gear design to optimize slew system capacity without major equipment modifications. This extends the lifespan of existing aerial work platforms and ensures cost-effective performance upgrades.

⚠️ Challenge #2: Preventing Overloading & Structural Damage

Boom structures must be precisely controlled to prevent stress-induced failures. Excessive loads can cause unexpected movements, leading to potentially catastrophic failures.

✅ Eskridge Solution:

Torque adjust brakes allow precise control over boom slip levels, preventing overload risks.
Torque measurement technology ensures safe and efficient operation, reducing risk of structural damage.

⚠️ Challenge #3: Minimizing Downtime & Ensuring Long-Term Reliability

Equipment failures result in project delays, lost revenue, and increased maintenance costs. For distributors and OEMs, reliability is a key selling point when choosing components.

✅ Eskridge Solution:
Eskridge’s products are known for durability. Unlike many imported alternatives, Eskridge gearboxes and brakes last longer under extreme conditions.

💬 According to Dean Eberhardt from IFP Automation:
🗣️ “Eskridge’s greatest strength is product durability. They are over-engineered and reliable, even in abusive applications.”

🟢 Why Choose Eskridge for Rotation & Brake Systems?

✔ Made in the USA – Faster lead times vs. overseas alternatives (8-14 weeks vs. 50 weeks)
✔ Superior Engineering
✔ Field-Proven Reliability

💬 “The American-made part helps justify pricing. Eskridge products are stout and built to last.” – Client Testimonial

Secure Your Eskridge Gearboxes & Brakes Today!

Distributors and OEMs looking for proven rotation & brake systems for aerial work platforms should consider Eskridge’s Model 50-130 Gearbox and Model 90 & 92 Brakes.

🔹 Browse Our Gear Drive Selection: Eskridge Gear Drives
🔹 Talk to Our Experts & Get a Custom Quote – Contact Us

📞 Have Questions? Our team is ready to help! Call us today.

Founded in 1972, Eskridge became a proud member of the Ramsey Industries family in 2008. With a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence and innovative solutions, Eskridge has established itself as a market leader in rotation and drive technology. Our products are trusted worldwide, delivering top-tier performance and reliability for demanding applications across multiple industries.