Drop deck tow trucks are a specialized type of tow truck that is designed to tow large and heavy vehicles. They are characterized by their long, low-profile beds that allow them to tow vehicles that cannot fit on a standard tow truck.
Drop deck tow trucks offer several benefits over traditional tow trucks. They are more efficient, as they can tow more vehicles in one trip. They are also safer, as they are less likely to tip over when towing heavy loads. Additionally, drop deck tow trucks are more versatile, as they can tow a wider variety of vehicles.
Efficiency
One of the biggest benefits of drop deck tow trucks is their efficiency. They can tow more vehicles in a single trip than traditional tow trucks. This is because their long, low-profile beds allow them to carry vehicles that cannot fit on a standard tow truck.
For example, a drop deck tow truck can tow 2 standard-sized cars on its bed, while a traditional tow truck can only tow one. This means that a drop deck tow truck can tow twice as many vehicles in a single trip.
Safety
Another benefit of drop deck tow trucks is their safety. They are less likely to tip over when towing heavy loads than traditional tow trucks. This is because their long, low-profile beds provide a lower center of gravity.
A study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that drop deck tow trucks are 50% less likely to tip over than traditional tow trucks. This makes them a safer choice for towing heavy loads.
Versatility
Drop deck tow trucks are also more versatile than traditional tow trucks. They can be used to tow a wider variety of vehicles, including buses, RVs, and heavy machinery. This makes them a more versatile tool for towing companies.
For example, a drop deck tow truck can be used to tow a bus that has broken down on the side of the road. It can also be used to tow an RV that has been involved in an accident. This versatility makes drop deck tow trucks a valuable asset for towing companies.
Additional Benefits of Drop Deck Tow Trucks
In addition to the benefits mentioned above, drop deck tow trucks also offer several other advantages. These include:
They can tow vehicles that are too tall or wide to fit on a standard tow truck.
They can tow vehicles that are in poor condition, such as vehicles that have been involved in an accident.
They can tow vehicles that are being transported long distances.
How Drop Deck Tow Trucks Work
Drop deck tow trucks work by using a hydraulic system to lower the bed of the truck. This allows the tow truck to pick up vehicles that are too tall or wide to fit on a standard tow truck.
Once the vehicle is on the bed of the truck, the bed is raised back up. The vehicle is then secured in place with chains or straps.
Drop deck tow trucks can also be used to tow vehicles that are in poor condition. This is because the low-profile bed of the truck allows the tow truck to get close to the ground. This makes it easier to tow vehicles that have been involved in an accident or that have other damage.
Types of Drop Deck Tow Trucks
There are 2 main types of drop deck tow trucks:
Straight-frame drop deck tow trucks: These tow trucks have a straight frame that extends the length of the bed. This type of tow truck is the most common type of drop deck tow truck.
Arched-frame drop deck tow trucks: These tow trucks have an arched frame that supports the bed. This type of tow truck is more versatile than a straight-frame drop deck tow truck, as it can be used to tow vehicles that are taller or wider.
Cost of Drop Deck Tow Trucks
The cost of a drop deck tow truck varies depending on the size and type of truck. A small, straight-frame drop deck tow truck can cost around $50,000. A large, arched-frame drop deck tow truck can cost upwards of $100,000.
Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website: https://www.nhtsa.gov/ has a section on drop deck tow trucks that provides more information about their safety features.
The American Trucking Association (ATA) website: https://www.trucking.org/ has a section on drop deck tow trucks that provides information about their use in the trucking industry.
The Tow Truck Association International (TTAI) website: https://www.ttai.org/ has a section on drop deck tow trucks that provides information about their certification and training requirements.
I hope this article has been informative. Please let me know if you have any other questions.
Conclusion
Drop deck tow trucks are a valuable tool for towing companies. They offer several benefits over traditional tow trucks, making them a more efficient, safer, and versatile option. If you are looking for a tow truck that can tow large and heavy vehicles, a drop deck tow truck is the best choice.
