1970's Collins "Crusader" Type-II Van Ambulance
"Collins developed its first van-type ambulance in 1972 which was called the "Crusader" and was built on a conventional Ford van chassis. Collins Industries, Inc. was the parent company of Collins Ambulance and later purchased Wheeled Coach.
Photo:Paul Holzapfel
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Photo:Paul Holzapfel
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In the mid-70's the Crusader 2.5 reflected significant improvements and was built on an extended Ford van chassis and featured a larger interior patient care area, piped-in oxygen and suction, safety engineered all-steel roof among a myriad of other enhancements. The front facing lightbar was external from the raised roof surface. This ambulance was choosen by the New Orleans Police Department-Emergency Services Section (ESS) for its main fleet of EMS ambulances that it operated during the late 70's before the city-wide service was assumed by the New Orleans Health Department.
Photo:Paul Holzapfel
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In the latter 70's, the third generation "Crusader" Type-II van ambulance represented complete aerodynamic styling and even greater enhancements to the patient care area and external lighting features.
Photo:Paul Holzapfel
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Special thanks to
Margie Barron,
Marketing Manager for
Collins Industries, Inc and to
Scott Cravens,
Publisher,