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Heavy tow trucks are specially designed to transport heavy and oversized vehicles. They come in different types, each designed with specific capabilities to handle various types of vehicles and situations. The most common types of heavy tow trucks are as follows.
Rotator tow trucks
Rotator tow trucks are the most powerful and versatile heavy-duty tow trucks. They are usually equipped with a rotating crane that can rotate 360 degrees. This allows the truck to lift vehicles from any angle, making it ideal for recovery situations where the towed vehicle is in a tight space or difficult position. Rotator tow trucks can handle the heaviest vehicles, such as buses and trucks.
Integrated tow trucks
Integrated tow trucks combine the towing apparatus within the truck chassis. This design offers more stability and allows the truck to tow heavier vehicles. These trucks often have multiple axles and can tow large RVs and commercial trucks. Integrated tow trucks are known for their reliability and efficiency, making them a favorite for towing companies.
Wheel-lift tow trucks
Wheel-lift trucks use a metal yoke cradled under the vehicle's wheels to lift the vehicle. This allows the truck to tow the vehicle by the wheels without touching its body. Wheel-lift trucks are suitable for towing vehicles that are low to the ground or have delicate bodywork. They are widely used for roadside assistance and in situations where the towed vehicle needs minimal contact.
Flatbed tow trucks
Heavy-duty flatbed tow trucks have a bed with a flat, horizontal surface that can be inclined to load and unload vehicles easily. Heavy-duty flatbed tow trucks are often used to transport heavy trucks and buses. They provide a safe and secure towing method since the towed vehicle is entirely on the truck.
Heavy-duty wrecker trucks
Heavy-duty wrecker trucks are equipped with cranes and winches for recovering and towing heavy vehicles. They are designed to handle the most challenging towing situations, such as recovering overturned trucks or towing large construction equipment. Wrecker trucks often have multiple towing capacities and can handle a variety of heavy vehicles.
Heavy-duty towing trucks have various towing capacities suitable for particular needs. Each truck model has its specifications, such as the engine size, transmission, and axle ratio.
Towing capacity
The towing capacity of a heavy-duty tow truck is measured in pounds. Most of these trucks can tow between 10000-35000 pounds. Some have a higher towing capacity of more than 35000 pounds.
Truck bed size
The truck bed size varies from one heavy-duty towing truck to another. The truck bed is measured in length and width. The truck bed measures 5-9 feet long and 5-7 feet wide.
Engine size
Tow trucks have powerful engines that enable them to tow heavy loads. The engine size ranges from 5.6 to 8.0 liters.
Transmission
Most heavy-duty towing trucks have automatic transmissions. The transmission has 6 to 10-speed options.
Axle ratio
The axle ratio is the ratio of the number of revolutions of the drive shaft to the number of revolutions of the wheels. The axle ratio ranges from 3.55 to 4.10.
Wheel size
Tow trucks have large wheels that enable them to drive on rough terrain. The wheel size ranges from 16 to 20 inches in diameter.
Heavy-duty towing trucks need regular maintenance to enhance their performance and extend their lifespan. Here are some of the maintenance requirements for heavy-duty towing trucks.
Engine maintenance
Engine maintenance involves changing the engine oil regularly depending on how often the truck is used. Also, have a professional mechanic check the engine regularly to tune it up and replace any worn-out parts.
Tire maintenance
Check the tire pressure before and after each trip. Ensure the tires have the recommended pressure. Also, rotate the tires after every 5000-7000 miles to ensure even wear.
Brake maintenance
Inspect the brakes regularly to see if there are any worn-out parts. Replace the brake pads and brake rotors if they are worn-out. Also, check the brake fluid level and fill it up if it is low.
Wiper and washer maintenance
Check the wipers and the washer before each trip. Replace the wipers if they are worn-out. Also, fill up the washer fluid before each trip.
Electrical system maintenance
Electrical system maintenance involves checking the battery and cleaning it to remove any corrosion. Also, inspect the battery cables and the charging system.
Selecting the right towing truck can be a challenging task. Here are some of the factors to consider when choosing a heavy-duty towing truck.
Consider the towing capacity:
The primary purpose of a towing truck is to tow heavy trucks. Therefore, when choosing a towing truck, consider the maximum weight the truck can tow without straining. If the towing truck is straining to tow the truck, that can cause damage to both the truck and the towing truck.
Consider the truck's size:
Towing trucks come in various sizes. The size of the towing truck should be determined by the size of the truck towed. For larger trucks, a large towing truck with more power and capacity is required.
Consider the truck's power:
The towing truck's engine also determines its ability to tow. Towing trucks with powerful engines provide more towing capacity and stability when towing than those with less powerful engines.
Consider the towing equipment:
Towing trucks are equipped with various towing equipment, such as trailers, tow bars, and hooks. The type of equipment determines the towing truck's ability and technique. When choosing a towing truck, consider equipment maintenance and use.
Consider the towing technique:
Different towing trucks use various techniques to tow trucks. Some use the towing truck's straps or ropes, while others use the equipment to lift the truck. The technique is determined by the situation and the towing truck's equipment.
Consider safety precautions:
When towing a truck, many dangers and risks are involved. Therefore, choosing a towing truck with all the necessary precautions, such as warning signs, safety belts, and more, is essential.
A DIY replacement of a heavy-duty tow truck depends on the part of the truck being worked on. Here are some of the parts that can be worked on and some simple instructions on how they can be replaced:
Replacing the Tow Hitch
Remove the bolts that attach the old hitch to the truck's frame using a socket wrench.
Once it is loose, pull out the hitch.
Lift the new hitch into place and secure it with bolts, tightening them until they are firm.
Replacing the Tow Hooks
Unscrew the old hooks from the truck's bumper or frame.
Position the new hooks and screw them in place, ensuring they are tight and secure.
Replacing the Winch Cable
Open the winch housing and remove the old cable from the drum.
Then, attach the new cable to the drum and ensure it is wound correctly.
Close the winch housing and check that the cable moves smoothly.
Q1: What is a heavy tow truck?
A1: A heavy-duty tow truck is a vehicle designed to transport, pull, or lift heavy vehicles. Usually, these trucks can haul trucks, buses, and other large vehicles. The towing capacity of heavy-duty tow trucks ranges from 20,000 pounds to more than 40,000 pounds.
Q2: Why are heavy-duty tow trucks important?
A2: Heavy-duty tow trucks are important for various industries, such as construction, mining, and logistics. For example, in the trucking industry, if the truck breaks down, a heavy-duty tow truck can quickly tow the truck and deliver it to a service station. In construction or mining, if the equipment is disabled, a heavy-duty tow truck can quickly tow the equipment and minimize the downtime.
Q3: Can anyone drive a heavy tow truck?
A3: No, not everyone can drive a heavy-duty tow truck. To drive a heavy-duty tow truck, one requires a special towing truck license. The requirements for the license vary by country or state.
