Don't Damage Your Truck When Towing It For Repairs
A broken-down truck can leave you stranded on the side of the road. Some mechanical failures leave your truck unable to start, while others can become more serious if you continue operating your truck on public roadways.
Getting an inoperable truck to a mechanic for repairs can be a challenge. These inoperable vehicles must be towed using the power of a functional vehicle. Towing your truck is a delicate process that can result in more damage if not done correctly. Avoid these mistakes when towing your truck in for repairs in the future.
Connecting to the Bumper
Protecting your vehicle against damage during towing begins with the proper connection between your truck and the truck being used to tow your inoperable vehicle. Drivers often make the mistake of thinking that their truck's bumper is sturdy enough to serve as the connection point for a tow chain or tow straps.
Bumpers are superficial additions to a vehicle. The weight of your truck pulling against the tow vehicle could cause the bumper to remove itself from your truck, leaving you with significant body damage to your vehicle. Connect tow chains and straps directly to the frame of your truck to achieve a secure connection that will minimize tow-related damage.
Leaving the Emergency Brake Engaged
After you pull over to the side of the road when experiencing problems with your truck's performance, you will probably put the vehicle in park and apply the emergency brake. An emergency brake can be a beneficial tool to keep your truck firmly in place while you assess the mechanical condition of the vehicle, but the emergency brake can also cause serious damage during towing. Be sure that your truck is in neutral with the emergency brake disengaged before attempting to move your truck with the help of a tow vehicle.
Distributing Weight Unevenly
Your truck will be subject to a lot of tension during the truck towing process. It's important for both your truck and the vehicle towing it that the weight of your truck is distributed evenly.
Place the tow chains or straps in the center of your truck's frame. Connect these straps or chains to the center of the tow vehicle's frame.
Even weight distribution will prevent the potential for road sway and ensure that your frame isn't bent while you are towing your truck to the mechanic shop. The tow vehicle will also be less likely to sustain any frame damage when the weight of your truck is distributed evenly.