Six Situations That Require a Flatbed Tow Truck
Posted on: 3 November 2015
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It is less expensive to go with a standard tow truck that lifts two of a vehicle's tires onto the tow truck while the other tires move normally on the road. However, sometimes it is best to go with a flatbed tow truck. Here are six situations in which a flatbed tow truck works better than a standard tow truck.
The Vehicle Doesn't Have Front-Wheel Drive
Nearly all trucks, SUVs, and four-wheel-drive vehicles should not be towed with a standard tow truck. Front-wheel drives can be towed with a standard tow truck because their back tires aren't attached to the drive shaft so they are able to spin without restriction. Vehicles that aren't front wheel drive aren't able to be towed in this manner, as it can damage the transmission.
The Vehicle is too Heavy
Certain vehicles, such as large trucks, SUVs, and minivans, are too heavy for a standard tow truck.
Standard tow trucks are designed to only hold up two wheels, which means if a vehicle is too heavy, then too much strain is put on the tow truck. A flatbed tow truck is designed to be able to handle more weight.
Long Distance Towing
Towing long distance with a standard tow truck is not recommended because the vehicle is being towed with two of the tires on the ground doing half the work. This means a lot of hard wear on the vehicle that isn't necessary.
Towing an Expensive Vehicle
Another good reason to use a flatbed tow truck is when you need to tow an expensive vehicle. A flatbed tow truck keeps the vehicle safer during the tow because the vehicle is up above the ground. You don't have to worry about the damage that could potentially happen during a standard tow.
Towing a Low Vehicle
More care has to be taken with a vehicle that has a low clearance to the ground. With a standard tow, you will have more risk of damage to the undercarriage from problems such as potholes or bumps on the road.
Towing Extremely Damaged Vehicles
Some extremely damaged vehicles can't be towed with a standard tow truck. Examples of this are vehicles with ruined wheels or that can't shift out of park.
As you can see, there are many situations for which a flatbed tow truck is needed. Even though a flatbed tow truck is more expensive, in certain situations it keeps your vehicles safer, making it worth the extra expense. Contact a company like TNT Towing and Salvage Disposal for either normal or flatbed tow trucks.