JUST because they are red it doesn't mean they go faster.
However, as many as 30 decomissioned fire trucks are expected to sell like hot cakes at a Launceston auction next Saturday.
The trucks are in tip-top condition, having been pampered for 30 to 40 years by Tasmania Fire Service mechanics. Most have well under 100,000km on the clock.
TFS northern region deputy chief Jeff Harper said the old Mercedes L series was his favourite.
"They are great trucks you can take them anywhere," he said.
Mr Harper said the hottest items were likely to be three 1981 diesel Land Cruisers, all fitted with pumps and tanks and odometers at just over 20,000km.
Other trucks include long-nosed International 1310 and 1610 models, flat-nosed International Accos and a lone Bedford.
Most are four-wheel-drive, roadworthy and petrol-powered.
Mr Harper said the trucks were decommissioned this year as TFS delivered 30 medium-sized tankers to the state's volunteer fire brigades, worth about $3 million in total.
He said the firefighters had grown fond of the old trucks.
"Mind you, if you drive up with a brand new one, they are not going to say they don't want it," he said.
The trucks, at TFS Youngtown depot, can be inspected on Friday before the auction. Many are expected to end up on farms.
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