If you’re in the market for a new tow truck, there are plenty of options available. Buying a tow truck can be a big investment, but it’s important to have a reliable vehicle when you work in the towing industry. From light-duty tow trucks to heavy-duty wreckers, there are different types of trucks to choose from based on your needs. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best tow trucks for sale and what to consider when purchasing one. But first, let’s discuss some of the basics.
Tow Trucks: What to Look For When Searching for One to Buy
If you’re in the market for a tow truck, you’ll quickly realize that there are many different types and models available. You may be wondering what you should be looking for when searching for one to buy. Here are a few things to consider:
1. Towing Capacity
The towing capacity of a truck is arguably the most important factor to consider. You’ll want to make sure that the tow truck you’re considering has enough power to tow the types of vehicles you’re likely to encounter. Also, consider what kind of hitch you’ll need for the various types of transport you’ll be doing.
2. Engine Type
Another important consideration is the engine type. Most tow trucks will come with either a gasoline or diesel engine. Diesel engines generally have better towing power, but may be more expensive to maintain.
3. Transmission Type
The transmission type on a tow truck can affect its performance and fuel efficiency. Consider whether you want an automatic or manual transmission, and be sure to test drive the truck to see how it handles.
4. Condition
When buying a used tow truck, be sure to thoroughly inspect its condition. Look for signs of wear and tear, and make sure the brakes, engine, and other mechanical components are in good working order.
5. Brand
Some brands of tow trucks are more well-known and respected than others. Do some research to see which brands are most popular in your area, and consider factors like reliability and resale value.
6. Size and Weight
Consider what size and weight of tow truck you’ll need for the types of vehicles you’ll be towing. A smaller, lighter truck may be more fuel-efficient, but may not have the towing power you need.
7. Cab Size
The cab of a tow truck can vary significantly in size. Consider whether you need a larger or smaller cab, depending on the number of passengers and the amount of gear you’ll typically be carrying.
8. Features
Some tow trucks may come with additional features like air conditioning, power windows, and a navigation system. Consider whether these features are important to you, or if you’re willing to sacrifice them to save money.
9. Price
Price is always an important factor to consider when buying a tow truck. Be sure to shop around and compare prices from different dealers and sellers, and consider financing options if needed.
10. Reputation of Dealer/Seller
Finally, consider the reputation of the dealer or seller you’re considering. Look for reviews and feedback online, and ask around to see if anyone you know has had experience buying from them.
Types of Tow Trucks for Sale
There are several different types of tow trucks for sale, each with unique strengths and applications.
1. Flatbed Tow Truck
The flatbed tow truck, also known as a rollback tow truck, has a large flatbed that tilts to the ground to allow vehicles to be driven onto it. This type of tow truck is ideal for transporting vehicles over longer distances and for transporting specialty vehicles that cannot be towed with a hook-and-chain tow truck. It’s also popular among car dealerships and repossession companies as it can quickly and safely transport vehicles without putting them in danger of damage.
2. Wheel-Lift Tow Truck
The wheel-lift tow truck uses a metal yoke that fits under the front or back wheels of a vehicle and lifts it off the ground. It’s ideal for towing smaller vehicles and is often used by city municipalities for towing illegally parked cars. A wheel-lift tow truck is also faster and more efficient than a flatbed tow truck for short-distance towing.
3. Hook and Chain Tow Truck
The hook and chain tow truck, also known as a sling tow truck, is the most common type of tow truck. It uses chains to attach to a vehicle’s frame or axle and lifts it off the ground, towing it behind the truck. While it’s not as versatile or practical as other types of tow trucks, it’s still useful for towing vehicles short distances in rural areas or for junk yards that need to tow scrap cars.
4. Integrated Tow Truck
An integrated tow truck is a heavy-duty tow truck that’s capable of handling bigger and heavier loads. It’s equipped with hydraulic systems, powerful winches, and stabilizing legs to lift and tow heavy vehicles like semi-trucks and buses. Integrated tow trucks are essential in the transport industry and also in large-scale construction companies.
5. Heavy-Duty Tow Truck
A heavy-duty tow truck operates similarly to the integrated tow truck, lifting and towing heavy loads up to 50 tons and more. These tow trucks can be used for almost any size of vehicle and is necessary for industries like construction, mining, and large-scale transport.
6. Boom Tow Truck
Boom tow trucks, also known as rotator tow trucks, have a hydraulic arm that can lift and rotate heavy loads, including overturned vehicles or vehicles stuck in a ditch. These tow trucks are useful in disaster zones or for roadside emergencies, and they’re capable of lifting 50-ton loads or more.
7. Self-Loader Tow Truck
The self-loader tow truck uses a combination of a wheel lift and a boom to lift and tow damaged or disabled vehicles. This tow truck can be driven by one operator, simplifying the loading and unloading process, and is often used by small towing companies or individuals who want to expand their business.
8. Flatbed Trailer
The flatbed trailer is similar to the flatbed tow truck, except it’s designed to be pulled by another vehicle. Flatbed trailers are useful for hauling vehicles long distances or for repossessing vehicles that are parked inside a locked garage.
9. Dolly Tow Truck
The dolly tow truck uses two small wheels to lift and tow the front wheels of a car while the rear wheels remain on the ground. This tow truck is ideal for towing front-wheel-drive cars over short distances and is common among rental car companies and roadside assistance services.
10. Adaptor Plate Tow Truck
The adaptor plate tow truck is used to tow cars with split drivetrains, where the front and rear wheels are not connected to the same transmission. This tow truck uses a special plate to connect the two parts of the vehicle, allowing it to be towed as a single unit. Adaptor plate tow trucks are specialized and therefore, less common than other types of tow trucks.
The Types of Tow Trucks for Sale
There are several types of tow trucks that you need to consider when buying a tow truck. Each type has specific advantages and disadvantages, depending on the needs of your business. Here are the most common types of tow trucks:
1. Flatbed Tow Trucks
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Flatbed tow trucks are becoming increasingly popular because of their versatility. They have a flat platform on the back of the truck, which can be tilted to the ground, allowing vehicles to be driven or pulled up onto it. These types of tow trucks are ideal for transporting high-end cars, classic cars, or vehicles that cannot be towed using a regular tow truck.
2. Hook and Chain Tow Trucks
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Hook and chain tow trucks have been around for many years. They are the most basic type of tow truck and use chains to lift the vehicle off the ground. However, these types of tow trucks are becoming less popular because the chains can damage the vehicle’s body or frame.
3. Wheel Lift Tow Trucks
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Wheel lift tow trucks are similar to hook and chain tow trucks, but they use a metal yoke instead of chains. The yoke is placed under the front or rear wheels of the vehicle and lifted off the ground. These types of tow trucks are ideal for short distances because they can quickly load and unload the vehicle.
4. Integrated Tow Trucks
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Integrated tow trucks are the most expensive and heaviest-duty tow trucks available. They are designed to tow large vehicles, such as buses, trucks, or heavy equipment, for long distances. These types of tow trucks have a stronger chassis, engines, and axles to handle the weight.
5. Boom Tow Trucks
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Boom tow trucks are used to recover vehicles that have fallen into ditches, rivers, or other hard-to-reach destinations. They are equipped with a hydraulic boom arm that can extend and retract, allowing them to reach the vehicle.
Type of Tow Truck | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Flatbed Tow Trucks | – Can tow almost any kind of vehicle – Offers high security – Can double as a car carrier |
– More expensive than other types – Requires more maintenance |
Hook and Chain Tow Trucks | – Cost-effective – Can handle heavy-duty vehicles |
– Can damage the vehicle’s body – Not suitable for newer cars |
Wheel Lift Tow Trucks | – Fast and easy to use – Can be used for short distances |
– Requires extra equipment to protect the vehicle’s body |
Integrated Tow Trucks | – Can tow heavy-duty vehicles over long distances – Offers excellent stability |
– Expensive – Requires experienced operators |
Boom Tow Trucks | – Can recover vehicles in hard-to-reach places – Flexible and versatile |
– Not suitable for towing long distances |
When buying a tow truck, it’s important to take into account the type that suits your business needs best. It’s also important to consider factors such as your budget, the quality of the truck, and the reputation of the seller. Do your research and make sure you’re buying a tow truck that represents a good investment for your company.
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