Ice Control Buffalo Style

Let’s pretend for a moment that you are in charge of public works for the city of Buffalo, New York. You’ll have you’re work cut out for you in terms of the shear size of the city but also from the challenges that mother nature will toss your way in the terms of ice and snow. Situated along the shores of Lake Erie and the mighty Niagara River, Buffalo enjoys the countless benefits these natural resources provide but every silver lining has a cloud. Hundreds if not thousands of small tributaries flow into Lake Erie. Each winter these liquid highways freeze leading to the possibility of flooding. So what do you do? Turn to military surplus.

At some point in time it’s possible that seven of these World War II era LVT-4 landing craft were used as ice control methods around the city. I know, I can hardly believe it myself! I scoured the web for old newspaper clippings or photos regarding these ice control fleet but found nothing. I assume these converted troop carriers simply went onto the ice and drove around in an attempt to smash through the thickest parts. Who says public service doesn’t have its perks.

According to the auction listing the Buffalo armada is powered by Continental W670-9A diesel engines. Even with my limited knowledge I know this statement doesn’t jive. Google confirms that the w670-9A was seven cylinder, gas powered radial engine, most commonly found in airplanes but not foreign to light armored vehicles. Looking at the engine compartments confirms that there is no radial engine but most likely a straight six cylinder diesel of some sort. Even better!

The rear access ramp has been welded shut to prevent flooding. Probably a good idea. The seller goes on to note that these vehicles last ran seven or eight years ago. Ran when parked, the most classic of all used vehicle selling lines. No sign is left of the two .50 caliber machine guns that were part of the OEM package. Armor on these units ranged from .2 to .5 inches in thickness. I guess that is enough to stop Buffalo river ice?

Three of the LVT’s seem in rather solid shape, at the very least they wear a coat of “newer” paint. The other four are in various states of rust and decay with one unit being trackless. The listing encourages you to plan ahead as heavy equipment and trailers will be needed to move these 18 ton units. City employees will make sure that over growth and other obstacles have been removed prior to pickup. So, are you brave enough to place a bid? If so, head on over to Auctions International. Bidding closes Monday May 16th, at 8:35 AM.

Also, if you have any first hand knowledge of these machines in use please let me know by leaving a comment below.