Tow trucks, particularly one-tow-two flatbed models, require specific procedures for efficient and safe operation. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to operate a one-tow-two flatbed tow truck, ensuring you handle it correctly from start to finish.
Steps to Operate a One-Tow-Two Tow Truck: 1. Position the Tow Truck:
Begin by disengaging the winch clutch and extending the steel cable to the front of the vehicle you intend to tow. Attach the “J” hook to the towing loop located at the lower end of the towed vehicle. Once attached, re-engage the winch clutch. Ensure that at least 5 turns of the steel cable remain on the winch drum to prevent overloading.
2. Prepare the Towed Vehicle:
Set the towed vehicle to neutral and disengage its parking brake to facilitate easy movement.
3. Operating the Winch:
Use the winch lever to carefully pull the vehicle onto the flatbed. Maintain a minimum distance of 0.4 meters between the “J” hook and the winch to prevent any interference. Avoid disengaging the manual winch clutch while under load to protect the equipment. Special caution is needed for vehicles with low chassis to prevent additional damage.
4. Securing the Vehicle:
After positioning the vehicle, use safety straps to secure the rear tires. Pull the vehicle towards the rear and attach it to the side-mounted flatbed rings. If any safety rings are damaged, wrap the safety straps around secure parts of the vehicle. If manual tightening of the straps isn’t feasible, use the winch lever to slightly reposition the vehicle and adjust the safety chains as needed.
5. Strapping the Vehicle:
Ensure that all four straps are securely fastened to the vehicle’s wheels or body. Proper strapping is crucial for safe transport.
6. Tensioning the Straps:
Confirm that the ratchet locks on the straps are fully engaged. Note that nylon straps may loosen over time, especially on rough roads or during sudden braking. Regularly check and adjust strap tension to maintain safety.
7. Adjusting the Flatbed:
Utilize the platform tilt control lever to raise the rear of the platform approximately 0.15 meters off the ground.
8. Moving the Flatbed:
Move the platform forward to about 0.6 meters from the vehicle’s front end using the tilt control lever. Then, adjust the platform to a horizontal position to prepare for secure transport.
9. Final Platform Adjustment:
Use the platform slide control lever to reposition the platform to the front end of the flatbed, ensuring the vehicle is correctly aligned.
10. Securing the Vehicle for Transport:
To prevent movement and damage from vibrations during transport, use two additional safety chains to secure the front end of the vehicle, making sure they are tightly fastened.
11. Final Vehicle Positioning:
Set the towed vehicle in first gear and engage the handbrake to further secure it during transport.
12. Final Checks:
Perform a thorough inspection of all safety chains, straps, and connections to ensure they are secure and properly tightened.
13. Completion:
After confirming that everything is properly secured, engage the clutch, disengage the power take-off, and the flatbed loading operation is complete.
Following these detailed steps will help ensure the effective and safe operation of a one-tow-twoflatbed tow truck, minimizing the risk of damage to both the towed vehicle and the tow truck itself.
