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Writer's pictureAmelia Varley

A Complete Guide on Wreckers

Updated: Sep 9, 2023

Wreckers, which are also called tow trucks, are specialized vehicles that are made to move damaged or broken-down cars. They come in different shapes and sizes and have different tools and equipment for different kinds of pulling. However, if you didn’t have an idea regarding the different types of wreckers, then here in this article, we have mentioned everything you need to know about them.

Different Types of Wreckers

  1. Flatbed Wreckers: The most common kind of tow truck is a flatbed wrecker. They have a flat, level bed that can be tilted hydraulically or with a winch to make a ramp for loading cars. This kind of wrecker is often used to move low-slung cars, like sports cars, as well as cars that have been badly damaged in an accident.

  2. Hook and Chain Wreckers: Hook and chain wreckers use a chain or a metal arm to lift the front or back of a damaged car and tow it with the other wheels still on the ground. This kind of wrecker isn't used as often because it can damage the car being pulled. Moreover, you need to be quite careful while using this category of wreckers. Most importantly, none of the businesses or car owners would want their vehicles to be damaged while being towed. Hence, if you choose this method, ensure your vehicle returns to you in the right condition effectively.

  3. Wheel Lift Wreckers: Wheel lift wreckers use a hydraulic lift to pick up the front or back of a car and pull it behind them while the other wheels stay on the ground. This kind of wrecker is often used to pull lighter loads because it is fast and effective. If your vehicle works in smaller transportation businesses, then using the wheel lift wreckers could the ideal option for you. Moreover, this type of wrecker is more suited to light vehicles rather than the larger ones.

  4. Integrated Wreckers: Integrated wreckers are specialized tow trucks that are made to move certain types of cars, like buses, RVs, or heavy-duty trucks. They are made with the tools and reinforcements needed to handle the size and weight of these cars. The integrated wreckers are a complete contrast of wheel lift wreckers that are more suited to light weighted vehicles.

Various Purposes of Wreckers

  1. Towing: The main thing which the wreckers carry out is move broken-down or disabled cars from one place to another. This can mean towing cars that have been in crashes, broken down, or are parked in the wrong place. In such scenarios, wreckers could be the ideal option.

  2. Recovery: Wreckers can also be used to get cars that have gone off the road or are stuck in mud, sand, or snow back on.

  3. Impounding: Wreckers are sometimes used to take away cars that have been abandoned or parked illegally.

Benefits Of Hiring Wrecker Service

  1. Convenience: It can be helpful to hire a wrecker service because they can take your car to a repair shop or somewhere else without you having to worry about driving it there yourself.

  2. Safety: Wreckers have the tools and equipment they need to move cars safely, so there is less chance of more damage or crashes.

  3. Expertise: Professional wrecker services have trained and experienced techs who know how to handle different types of towing situations. This makes sure that your car is moved safely and quickly.

  4. Availability: Wrecker services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so you can get help whenever you need it, day, or night.

  5. Insurance: Many wrecker services are insurance, so you don't have to worry about your car getting damaged or stolen while it's being towed.

Conclusion

Wreckers are important for getting wrecked or broken-down cars where they need to go. There are different kinds of wreckers for different kinds of towing situations. Hiring a professional wrecker service can be a good choice for people who need pulling services because it's easy, safe, and the drivers know what they're doing. When picking a wrecker service, it's important to think about their knowledge, equipment, and insurance to ensure your car is moved quickly and safely.

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