Wheel lifts are tow trucks that use a hydraulic lift to tow cars. People often use wheel lifts to tow immobile or non-functional cars, such as those involved in accidents or with flat tires. Wheel lifts also tow luxury or antique cars without straining the undercarriage.
When selecting a truck for a wheel lift, several factors must be considered. Including the size and weight of the vehicles that will be tow, the type of terrain that you will be working on, and the amount of money that you are willing to spend.
Types of Trucks Compatible with Wheel Lifts
Wheel lifts are compatible with almost any type of truck, regardless of the size and brand. Here are some of the most common types of trucks used for wheel lifts:
- Medium-duty trucks: They are ideal for wheel lifts because they are powerful enough to tow different vehicles but not too big. They are also compact, which is essential when working in congested areas.
- Heavy-duty trucks: Heavy-duty trucks are the largest and most powerful truck type. Wheel lifts are primarily used to tow large vehicles such as buses or trucks.
- Pickup trucks: Pickup trucks can also be equipped with wheel lifts. While they are typically used for towing smaller vehicles like cars or motorcycles, they can also handle larger vehicles in construction situations.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Truck for a Wheel Lift
When choosing a truck for a wheel lift, you should consider the size and weight of the vehicles to be towed, the type of terrain, and your budget. For rough terrain, one needs a truck with a four-wheel drive to maneuver and gain proper grip on the ground. Furthermore, since wheel lifts can be expensive, the cost of the truck should also be considered in the decision process.
Additional Considerations
It is also necessary to point out that the characteristics of the wheel lift must be considered when selecting a truck for a wheel lift. Some features that should be considered are the lifting capacity, the length of the boom, and the control method.
- Lifting capacity: The capacity of a wheel lift is the towing capacity of the wheel lift. When selecting a wheel lift, you will need to ensure that the lifting capacity of the lift is higher than the heaviest towing capacity.
- Reach of the boom: The length of the boom determines its range. You must select a wheel lift with adequate reach to tow the vehicles from different angles.
- Type of control system: Wheel lifts have two types of control mechanisms: manual and automatic. Automated systems are generally more costly, but they are easier to use than manual systems.
Conquer Any Tow with the Perfect Wheel Lift Truck!
Choosing the right truck for your wheel lift is crucial. At Bumble Bee Tow Trucks, our experts can help you navigate factors like terrain and budget to find the ideal truck for your needs. Browse our extensive inventory or get a free quote today—we’ll ensure your towing operation runs smoothly, mile after mile. Visit us now at Bumblebee Towing!