There are different tow trucks for different situations because every situation is different and so is every make of car. When you call for a tow and your situation has been assessed, the right tow truck will be sent to your location. What’s the difference between a flatbed tow truck and a wheel lift tow truck?
Flatbed Tow Truck
Flatbed tow trucks come with a platform that can move. The platform can be slid down from the frame of the truck and adjusted to ground level. The vehicle that needs towing can then be put on the truck two ways. It can be driven up or a winch system will be used to pull it onto the truck. When the vehicle has been loaded correctly, it will be tied down firmly with straps or chains. The main benefit of using a flatbed tow truck is the safety it provides. The straps or chains that hold the vehicle down ensure the vehicle will stay in place for the duration of the drive and reduces the chances it will be damaged. It also ensures that all four wheels will remain stationary for the trip. Flatbed towing is also a better option for vehicles that are all-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive and is the choice for owners of luxury or exotic vehicles.
Wheel Lift Tow Truck
Wheel lift towing is considered the old style of towing where towing chains are secured around the frame of the vehicle that needs towing. The vehicle is then lifted off the ground partially and pulled behind the tow truck. Newer wheel lift tow trucks now use a hydraulic dolly that is mounted on the back of the tow truck to haul a vehicle. The driver will back the tow truck up to the front of back of the vehicle, lower the lift or dolly in the right position and secure the vehicle with straps. When the wheels are locked in place, the vehicle can be towed.
Main Differences Between Towing Methods
The main difference between flatbed tow trucks and wheel lift tow trucks is the level of security each can provide. Flatbed towing is the safer method of towing by far. The reason being, there is no need to use the powertrain of the vehicle. The vehicle also gets less wear and tear because it’s placed on a platform, completely off the ground. The drawback to flatbed towing is the price. The cost for this towing service will cost more and will depend on the distance of the tow. Flatbed tow trucks are also slower than wheel lift towing due to the high mobility of wheel lift towing. Wheel lift towing is better suited for tows over a short distance and in removal of vehicles that are in narrow or tight spaces.
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The towing equipment used can be the difference between success and failure of the tow. When you find yourself in need of towing services, give Nonstop Towing a call. We can provide you with reliable towing and roadside assistance 24/7.
