Types of Tow Trucks
Vehicles can break down at random and inconvenient times, so you should be aware of the different types of tow trucks that could help you in different settings. Various types of tow trucks exist, and all are designed for different situations. You may already be familiar with one or two types, but below, we will introduce you to four:
1. Flatbed Tow Trucks
The flatbed tow truck is very common because it is versatile and can help transport a wide variety of vehicles. This truck has a long, empty bed that a vehicle can be parked on. The flatbed can be moved with hydraulics, and a towed vehicle can either drive up the ramp or be pulled up it.
Whether your vehicle has a roadside problem or is involved in an accident, a flatbed tow truck can transport your automobile safely. Using a flatbed is considered one of the best ways to tow vehicles because the car will be completely off the ground, eliminating the risk of additional damage during the trip. Flatbeds can transport anything from motorcycles to heavy equipment.
You’ll want a flatbed tow truck for when your vehicle needs to go longer distances or if you want the safest option. This type of tow truck can transport almost any vehicle and is usually quicker than other options. The load is secured on the back of the truck so the driver can maintain regular speeds.
2. Integrated Tow Trucks
Integrated tow trucks are used for heavy towing jobs, such as buses or trucks. The towing arm is embedded in the truck’s core, hence the name “integrated.” This tow truck type also has extra axles for more stability and strength.
This type of tow truck is only needed if a large automobile has broken down. If your bus, RV or other large vehicle has a problem, you may need to use an integrated towing truck.
3. Wheel-Lift Tow Trucks
The wheel-lift tow truck lifts one end of the vehicle with a metal yoke that is hooked under the vehicle’s front or wheel wells. The tow truck then suspends half the vehicle in the air and pulls it away. Two of the tires will still be on the ground, meaning this method is not quite as safe as a flatbed tow truck, though it is usually less expensive.
Wheel-lift tow trucks offer a suitable, inexpensive option for towing your vehicle.
4. Hook and Chain Tow Trucks
This type of tow truck is not used as much anymore because of the damage it can cause to your vehicle. A hook and chain tow truck connects to the vehicle and drags it to its destination. The truck’s towing design can cause scratches and bumper damage, and it can even damage the drivetrain of some vehicles. Because of this, hook and chain trucks are typically only used for moving wrecked cars where additional damage will not matter. Additionally, it is less expensive than the other options.
Contact Northside Towing for Towing Services
If you need towing services in an emergency, turn to Northside Towing. We’ve been serving northern Colorado and southern Wyoming for over 40 years. We’re a small, family-owned business focusing on customer service, reliability and safety. We provide towing services, jumpstarts, tire changes and lockout help. We specialize in Landoll trailer services and heavy-duty towing, and we have a fleet of tow trucks that can handle anything from small cars to commercial trucks. There’s no job too big or small for us.
If you need towing or roadside services, contact us right away! We pride ourselves on providing professional towing, recovery and roadside services no matter the time or vehicle. You can trust we’ll get the job done right.