Towing and Recovery Safety Tips
1. When towing a truck or tractor from the front, disconnect the driveshaft to protect the transmission. Block the wheels front and back, take the vehicle out of gear to take the tension off the driveshaft and set the wheel brakes, if any. Some trucks have the park brake on the driveshaft, if so release that brake so you know there is no withstanding tension.
2. When towing a tractor-trailer, run a service brake line to the trailer to aid you in controlling the load behind you.
3. When towing a truck or tractor use a light bar so traffic knows of your turning and stopping intentions and is always aware of your total length in the dark. On tractor-trailers, run a line to the trailer lights.
4. When pulling a truck or tractor from the rear, secure the steering wheel, cap the stacks, and if a roof faring is installed, you may have to keep your speed reduced to avoid damage. If it's an electric model, fold it down and secure it before hitting the road.
5. When securing the axles for a rear pull make sure you do not route your chains around the s-cam bracket, but between it and the axle or under the axle, instead. Chain pressure could lead to cam binding, or bending.
6. When running light cable or air hoses for transport, route cables and hoses away from painted surfaces where possible. It's best to secure under the towed truck.
7. When supplying air to a truck or tractor use a ball valve and fitting at the air compessor, versus using a schrader valve in the air tank. When using the compressor method, cover or plug the compressor fitting so that dust, gravel and other debris cannot collect in the compressor while in transport.
8. When removing a vehicle from an accident scene, secure or remove any loose material that may cause a traffic hazard. Take it slow and watch the load, often after a few miles of shaking and bouncing new items will show up that will be a hazard. Pull over and re-inspect the load.
9. If you have to cage the brakes on a truck before you can transport it because of air leaks, block two different sets of wheels front and back, then proceed to cage the brakes.
10. It's best not to work under a lifted truck, if you must do so place blocking under the wheels and lower the truck onto them. Also, block the wheels on the ground front and back of the about to be towed vehicle.
11. If you have remotes for your wheel lift, boom and/or winches, do not leave the remote in your pocket or on the ground where accidental activation could occur while your working under a truck or between the two units. Instead, set the remote on your truck until you are ready to use it.
12. Inspect the suspension on your tow truck for sagging or wear, the rear suspension sees the most abuse. Inspect the axle housing where the suspension attaches for cracks, if you have air ride check your loaded and empty ride height to see if it's still in specs.
13. Use care when you are getting in and out of the truck or on and off the bed, use steps and handles, and avoid jumping off equipment. Always be aware of the traffic around you, look and think before you make a move.
All of the above items are things that every towing operator should use when working with tow equipment. Failing to do so may result in damage to the towed vehicke, serious injury, or even worse, death.
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