Bucket list visit to Petawawa HUW

[Bruce Parker (RIP)]

It's been on my bucket list to visit the CFB Petawawa HUW for some time now. It's a late version like the one I'm working on so perhaps it would yield a few secrets. I've seen it in photographs and maybe even passed by it as a young reservist 40 years ago but can't recall.

Anyway, I finally got there this weekend.

While I did get a few helpful details, I report in general that it's in pretty bad shape. It has seen civilian use and there is zero interior. Weather and being outside has not been kind. There is an engine and the tow hook on the rear (that shouldn't be there) is supported by an axle shaft with steering knuckles for reinforcement.

The plus...it's off my bucket list.

The minus...the Pet museum really has to preserver their artifacts better.

Pics as of October 11, 2019

[Ed Storey]

Here is how the HUW looked when Mike Calnan found it in 1982. Preserving the outdoor vehicles on display at Petawawa is an understatement as most are in abysmal condition from years of neglect.

[Ed Storey]

Here is how it looked when it was first placed at the 'museum' and before it was ravaged by 37 years of sitting outside to the elements.

[Bruce Parker (RIP)]

So here's a question. This old pic shows an artillery tractor beside the HUW. It isn't there now. where did it go?

[rob love]

I think I heard something about Pet rebuilding a FAT to use to tow a 25 pounder. These might be related.

In an ideal world, every artifact would be parked inside or under cover. It just doesn't work out that way.

[Hanno Spoelstra]

Originally Posted by Ed Storey

Here is how the HUW looked when Mike Calnan found it in 1982. Preserving the outdoor vehicles on display at Petawawa is an understatement as most are in abysmal condition from years of neglect

I recall seeing those pics in W&T magazine! I think this HUW was pretty lucky to be restored in the first place, and it has fared pretty well sitting 37 years outside to the elements. I hope it is re-rescued one day, though.

[Ed Storey]

Here is a colour photograph of the HUW taken at the time it was first discovered by Mike Calnan so many years ago.