IH Tug onboard USS Hornet

[John P.]

I came across this video on YouTube.
It shows an IH Tug in amazing condition sitting on the hanger deck of the sunken WW II Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet.

 

[rustred]

That seams funny , cause the tractor is newer than the war. But I guess the carrier could have outlasted the war.

 

[John M]

Hornet was sunk in Oct 1942. What makes you think the tug is newer?

 

[rustred]

ya its possible , as them styled tractors came out in 40. get it out of that water , i want one of them, lol.

 

[Jim Becker]

It is a Hebard Shop Mule. It is one of the A-14 or A-21 models, the year implies an A-14. The grill guard on the front was a regular Hebard option, as were those industrial type tires. Note that it has a horizontal exhaust system (so nobody runs into an aircraft wing).

I find the condition of the decals remarkable. You can clearly read "International Harvester Power" on the side of the hood. The air cleaner instructions look good as well.

 

[Fred47M]

3 miles down, 1 further than Titanic.

 

[Tom in Mo.]

I bet the tires are like new but the rest is bathing in cold, salt water.