We’re thrilled to announce that Sirens Project has officially acquired a new truck platform for our next-generation disaster response vehicle! Meet our incredibly rare 2003 Sterling SC8000, equipped with a Marmon Herrington all-wheel drive (AWD) system, the legendary 5.9L 24-valve Cummins diesel engine, and a durable Allison MD3060 automatic transmission. This specialized vehicle will serve as the foundation for a one-of-a-kind grapple saw truck, designed specifically for safe and efficient hazardous tree removal after storms.
Why the Sterling SC8000?
The Sterling SC8000 isn’t your average medium-duty truck. Its cab-over-engine (COE) design offers an incredibly tight turning radius, excellent visibility, and better maneuverability in storm-damaged neighborhoods and debris-strewn streets. What makes this unit even more unique is the factory Marmon Herrington AWD conversion, making it ideal for accessing hard-to-reach or off-road locations often encountered during disaster response missions.
Powering the truck is the highly regarded 5.9L Cummins 24V turbo diesel engine, known for its durability and ease of maintenance. Paired with the Allison MD3060 automatic transmission, it provides smooth, reliable operation—essential when navigating challenging environments in the aftermath of hurricanes and tornadoes.
Planned Upgrades and Build Goals
Our long-term vision is to transform this truck into a fully outfitted grapple saw truck, a tool that will revolutionize how we tackle fallen trees and debris in the field. This build will dramatically improve safety and efficiency, allowing us to reach more families in need faster than ever before.
Here are some of the short-term upgrades already in the works:
- Super single 425/65R22.5 tires for improved traction, weight savings, and off-road performance
- Upgraded lift pump and fuel system for increased reliability and fuel delivery
- Performance exhaust manifold for better flow and lower EGTs
- Interior restoration and upgrades for crew comfort and safety
- EV2-style gauges to monitor key engine vitals like fuel pressure, turbo boost pressure, and exhaust gas temperatures (EGTs)
These upgrades will not only optimize the truck’s performance but also ensure it’s ready to serve in the most demanding disaster zones across the Southeastern U.S.
Follow Along With the Build!
This is more than just a truck—it’s a mission on wheels. Every bolt we turn brings us one step closer to building a tool that will help communities recover quicker and more safely after devastating storms.
We’ll be documenting the entire process of the grapple saw truck build, from mechanical upgrades and frame modifications to the final crane installation. If you’re passionate about disaster relief, emergency response innovation, or diesel trucks with purpose, this is a build you won’t want to miss.
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🌐 Learn more at [sirensproject.org]
💬 Want to support the build? Contact us or donate directly to the project!
Stay tuned—big things are coming, and so is the most capable storm response truck we’ve ever built.
