Towing is the process of pulling or hauling a vehicle or other object using a powered vehicle, such as a truck or SUV. There are many different towing terms and techniques that are used in the industry, and understanding these terms can be helpful when you need to tow a vehicle or when you’re having your vehicle towed. With this in mind, we at Speedway Towing & Roadside Assistance would like to share some of the most common towing terms and their meanings.
Towing Capacity
This refers to the maximum weight that a vehicle is capable of towing. It is important to know your vehicle’s towing capacity before attempting to tow anything to ensure you are not exceeding its limits.
Tongue Weight
This refers to the weight that is placed on the hitch ball when towing a trailer. It is important to ensure that the tongue weight is within the vehicle’s recommended limits to ensure proper balance and stability while towing.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
This is the maximum weight that a vehicle is designed to carry, including its own weight, passengers, cargo, and tongue weight. Exceeding the GVWR can be dangerous and cause damage to the vehicle.
Trailer Hitch
This is the device that is used to connect a trailer to a tow vehicle. There are several types of hitches, including ball hitches, fifth-wheel hitches, and gooseneck hitches.
Trailer Brakes
Some trailers have their own braking systems, which can be electric or hydraulic. These brakes help to slow down and stop the trailer while it is being towed.
Flatbed Tow Truck
This is a type of tow truck that has a flat platform bed that can be hydraulically tilted and raised to load and transport a vehicle. Flatbed tow trucks are often used to transport damaged or disabled vehicles.
Wrecker Tow Truck
This is a type of tow truck that uses a hydraulic lift and winch to lift and tow a vehicle. Wrecker tow trucks are often used to tow vehicles that are illegally parked or have been involved in accidents.
Tow Dolly
This is a small trailer that is used to tow a vehicle with its front wheels off the ground. Tow dollies are often used to tow small cars or vehicles that cannot be towed using a flatbed tow truck.
Winch
This is a device that is used to pull or hoist heavy objects, such as a vehicle. Winches are often used in conjunction with tow trucks to lift and tow damaged or disabled vehicles.
Vehicle Recovery
This refers to the process of recovering a vehicle that has become stuck or immobilized, such as in mud, snow, or water. Recovery often involves the use of a winch, straps, or other specialized equipment.
Towing & Roadside Assistance in Irving, Fort Worth, Arlington, Carrollton & Plano Texas
Understanding these common towing terms can help you communicate effectively with a tow truck operator, ensure that your vehicle is towed safely, and make informed decisions about towing your own vehicle. Whether you are in need of towing services or roadside assistance services in Irving, TX and surrounding areas, Speedway Towing & Roadside Assistance is readily available to assist you!