Have you ever found yourself stranded on the side of the road with a broken-down vehicle? If so, you know how important it is to have a reliable towing service that can quickly and safely transport your vehicle to a repair shop or other destination. But, do you know when to use a flatbed tow truck instead of a traditional tow truck with a hook and chain?
In this article, we will discuss the benefits of using a flatbed tow truck and when it is the best option for your vehicle.
What are flatbed tow trucks?
Flatbed tow trucks, also known as rollback or slide tow trucks, are vehicles that feature a flat platform on the back that can be raised and lowered using hydraulic equipment. The platform is designed to carry a wide range of vehicles, from small cars to heavy-duty trucks.
How do they work?
A flatbed tow truck operator will lower the platform to the ground and position it near the vehicle to be towed. The vehicle is then loaded onto the platform using a winch, which pulls the vehicle onto the platform using a cable or strap. Once the vehicle is secured, the platform is raised and secured in place, and the tow truck is ready to move.
Advantages of using a flatbed tow truck
Flatbed tow trucks offer several advantages over traditional tow trucks with a hook and chain. One of the main advantages is that the entire vehicle is lifted onto the platform, which eliminates the risk of damage to the vehicle’s undercarriage, tires, or suspension. Additionally, flatbed tow trucks are more versatile and can be used to tow a wider range of vehicles, including luxury or high-performance cars, heavy-duty trucks, and classic or antique cars.
When to use a flatbed tow truck
There are several situations where a flatbed tow truck is the best option for towing your vehicle:
- Luxury or high-performance cars: Flatbed tow trucks are ideal for transporting luxury or high-performance cars because they offer maximum protection to the vehicle. These cars often have low ground clearance, which can make it difficult to load them onto traditional tow trucks with a hook and chain.
- Heavy-duty trucks: Flatbed tow trucks are designed to handle heavy loads, making them the ideal choice for towing heavy-duty trucks, buses, and other large vehicles.
- Classic or antique cars: Classic or antique cars are often irreplaceable and require special care when transporting them. Flatbed tow trucks provide maximum protection and minimize the risk of damage during transportation.
- Vehicles with damage to the wheels or suspension: If your vehicle has damage to the wheels or suspension, a flatbed tow truck is the best choice to avoid causing further damage during transport.
