Understanding Our Equipment
There are many reasons why our clients request a tow truck. Often, their calls are accident-related. Sometimes, they need a vehicle moved from their premises. Whatever the reason, requesting a tow is usually not an experience most motorists encounter frequently.
When faced with a scenario calling for a tow truck, you may feel a mix of frustration and curiosity. Today, we want to demystify the equipment we use to ensure your vehicle is handled with care. Let’s delve into the types of tow trucks and the equipment that makes them the unsung heroes of the roadside.
The Heart of Our Operation: Types of Tow Trucks
Tow trucks are not one-size-fits-all; they are specialized machines designed for different situations and vehicle types.
Flatbed Tow Trucks
Flatbeds are the most commonly used tow trucks, featuring a long, flat platform at the rear. Our operators either drive (if possible) or winch the vehicles onto the platform, ensuring they are completely off the ground. This method is very safe for your vehicle. It prevents wear and tear on the tires and drivetrain that could occur with traditional towing methods.
Wheel-Lift Tow Trucks
Before flatbeds became prevalent, wheel-lift tow trucks were the go-to. These trucks use a metal yoke that fits under the front or rear wheels, lifting one end of the vehicle off the ground while the other set remains in contact with the road. Wheel-lift tow trucks are particularly handy in tight spaces where maneuvering a flatbed might be challenging.
Heavy-Duty Tow Trucks
Heavy-duty tow trucks are called into action for larger vehicles, such as buses, semi-trucks, or RVs. These trucks are behemoths equipped with powerful winches and booms that can lift and pull the heaviest loads. Their specialized equipment, including underlifts and outriggers, can tow large vehicles without damage.
The Muscles of the Operation: Essential Towing Equipment
Our tow trucks come equipped with various tools and accessories. Each item makes towing possible and efficient, and safe for your vehicle.
Winches
Central to the towing process is the winch. Mounted on the tow truck, the winch’s cable can be attached to your vehicle to pull it onto a flatbed or out of a ditch. The strength of a winch ensures that even vehicles in precarious situations can be recovered.
Dollies and Skates
In scenarios where a vehicle cannot be easily rolled onto a tow truck or needs to be moved from a tight spot, dollies and skates come into play. Dollies lift the vehicle’s wheels off the ground, allowing it to be towed without the wheels turning. Skates, on the other hand, are placed under the wheels to slide a vehicle across the ground smoothly.
Safety Equipment
Safety is paramount in the towing process. Tow trucks are outfitted with a range of safety equipment, including lights, reflective markers, and straps. These protect the tow truck operator and the vehicle being towed and signal other drivers on the road to keep a safe distance.
Entrusting Your Vehicle to Professionals
When your vehicle needs a tow, knowing that it’s in the hands of professionals with the right tools and knowledge can provide significant peace of mind. At Benefiel Truck Repair & Towing, we pride ourselves on using the best equipment and techniques to ensure your vehicle is handled safely and efficiently.
Whether a simple tow to the nearest garage or a complex recovery from an accident site, we’re prepared to assist with our fleet of specialized tow trucks and experienced operators. With locations in Hamburg, IA, Nebraska City, NE, Rock Port, MO, and Mound City, MO, we ensure comprehensive coverage of the Tri-State area. Remember, the next time you see one of our tow trucks in action, there’s a wealth of technology and expertise dedicated to getting you and your vehicle safely back on the road.