The CAF Ground Forces Detachment is restoring this WWII-era M2 High-Speed Tractor.
Built exclusively for the U.S. Army as an aircraft tug and served in both combat theaters.
The M2, also called a “Bomber Nurse" during WWII, was for moving aircraft and heavy trailers, especially if they were bogged down in mud or sand.
8,510 manufactured
Length 166 in (4.22 m)
Width 70 in (1.78 m)
Height 68 in (1.73 m)
Weight 13,800 lb (6,260 kg)
Crew Size 3
Engine Hercules, 6-cylinder, 150 hp (112 kW)
Range 100 mi (160 km)
Maximum Speed 22 mph (35 km/h)
Drawbar Tow 7,000 lb (3,175 kg)
Winch Capacity 10,000 lb (4,500 kg)
Generator 3KW, 110 Volts, DC
Air Compressor 3 stage, 16.7 CFPM, 2.000 PSI
H.O. Wildenberg of Rhenen, NL, (European expert for WWII vehilce parts) was instrumental in securing the Cletrac from her Belgium home and arranging for shipping to the USA.
The team at Midwest Military not only has jeep, Dodge, and other parts, they helped us import the Cletrac and process through customs upon arrival in the USA then work with hauling her journey's final leg to Texas.
Once the Cletrac made it to Texas, the head was installed and basic engine pieces put together. Here's the first run!
Take a listen and you'll hear it missing and some clicks. Time to dig into the engine and see what's wrong.
You can hear the difference in the engine. She's running much better now after a extensive engine shop work.
This video was taken on 27 October 2018 at Dallas Executive Airport (KRBD) and is believed the first time since B-29s were retired from the USAF that one was towed by a Cletrac.
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