A tractor trailer tow truck is essential for semis and other heavy-duty trucks. Spending hours covering thousands of miles on the road will result in wear and tear on the trucks. Semi drivers need tow trucks for when the inevitable happens like malfunctions with the engine or situations where your truck can not get you to your next stop. On average, semis breakdown about every 10,000 miles. Here are some of the most common scenarios you can find yourself in that will require you to call a towing service that specializes in your type of vehicle.
What Is The Difference Between a Tractor Trailer Tow Truck and a “Normal” Tow Truck?
Tractor trailer tow trucks are designed to handle heavy-duty vehicles like semis, large commercial vehicles, and buses. These trucks are much larger than normal tow trucks so they can carry the heavy weight of these large vehicles. They have a larger weight limit to support the load of a heavy-duty truck.
They also have heavy-duty safety equipment that can withstand the weight and stabilize the large loads needed to be carried. Operators of these tow trucks are also required to undergo specialized training to ensure the safety of everyone including themselves. The training shows they have an understanding of safety protocols, laws, regulations, and knowledge of heavy-duty vehicles.
A “normal” tow truck is known as a light-to-medium-weight tow truck. These trucks are smaller than heavy-duty tow trucks and are designed to carry everyday vehicles and lightweight trucks. The weight limit is much smaller than the larger tow trucks. The equipment typically used is for standard towing that is geared toward minor incidents and breakdowns for smaller cars. Operators of normal tow trucks have generalized training in handling common vehicle breakdowns and safety regulations.
Common Scenarios For Needing Heavy-Duty Towing
Accidents and Collisions
A common reason for needing a tractor trailer tow truck is being involved in an accident. Whether it be a single incident or multi-vehicle collision you might need assistance in moving somewhere safer. Many times an accident or collision occurs with large trucks they will need to be towed away first. One of the top priorities is clearing the road when an accident occurs. This can help prevent further collisions and traffic jams. Typically speaking, working on a semi is easier and safer in a shop where the heavy-duty equipment and tools are more easily accessible. Towing services play a crucial role when it comes to accidents. Clearing the road and getting the vehicles out of the way is essential in the incidents.
Breakdowns
Traveling long distances for days at a time can really wear a truck out. Breakdowns happen often when it comes to semis and heavy-duty trucks. Anything from tires losing tread, having engine issues, brake problems, and electrical issues can result in a breakdown. When something like that occurs you should immediately put on your hazards, pull off to the road whenever it is safe, and call a heavy duty tow trucking service. It is advised for you to stay in your truck especially if you’re on the side of a road or interstate for your safety. Pulling heavy equipment and loads really drain a truck and preventative maintenance can only do so much. Breakdowns are inevitable. Knowing the closest and most reliable tractor trailer tow truck service near you is essential when operating a heavy-duty vehicle.
Fuel
Another reason for needing a tractor trailer tow truck is encountering fuel problems or running out of diesel. As people we make mistakes, even the most diligent drivers can overlook their fuel gauge. Always make sure to keep an eye on your dash so you know when you will need to make a stop for diesel. Driving for hours at a time can make you forget the simple things. Try to remember how often your truck needs a refill on diesel. Sometimes you might realize when it is too late and there is not a gas station nearby. If this occurs, don’t freight. Contact a towing service so they can help transport you to the nearest gas station safely.
Overheating
Heavy-duty vehicles are often used for extended periods of driving which can result in the engine overheating especially during the warmer weather. If not taken care of properly, this can result in damage to the engine. Calling a tractor trailer tow truck service can help you transport your vehicle to a shop so your truck’s damage can be assessed there. Some tips to avoid overheating are to top off your coolant as soon as it gets low and keep an eye on your temperature gauge. If your truck gets overheated it is best to find a safe spot to park for a while to let your truck cool down to prevent any permanent damage to your truck. Signs of an overheating truck are having a high-temperature gauge, burnt smells coming from the engine, and steam or smoke coming out from under the hood. If you notice any of these signs it is crucial that you pull over safely and call a towing service immediately.
Heavy-Duty Towing Near you
The reasons for needing a tow truck is essentially the same whether you have a small sedan or an 18-wheeler truck. Knowing which towing service to call becomes crucial when you are in a hurry to transport your vehicle. The differences between a heavy-duty tow truck and a “normal” tow truck may appear subtle, but it is important to know. Massey Towing offers reliable tractor trailer tow truck services designed to guarantee safe transportation of heavy-duty vehicles. Our team consists of skilled operators with equipment capable of towing all vehicles including your large truck. We take pride in our experienced towers and dispatchers who prioritize efficiency and customer service. We offer round-the-clock towing services in the Dallas Fort Worth area of Texas. We are dedicated to our work, contact us for your towing needs.
