Basic Information on Tow Truck Operation
The video “How to Operate a Wheel Lift,” by Utah Tow Truck Training, is one minute and 42 seconds long, but it demonstrates the primary movements of a tow truck wheel lift, its boom, and its controls.
The operator mentions that the controls may differ from one tow truck to another and recommends practicing with the controls before going on a customer run. He also mentions the whining sound coming from the tow truck’s PTO or power take-off unit that diverts power from the engine to attachments such as the wheel lift.
Among the movements he demonstrates is moving the wheel lift up and down and tilting it relative to the boom. The wheel lift can also be extended so it goes under a vehicle, and you can raise or lower the entire boom to adjust the wheel lift height.
The narrator also reminds viewers to return the wheel lift to its original position before traveling without a vehicle. That involves raising the boom to its ride position to its maximum height and tilting the wheel lift back to the position closest to the truck.
Although the video is intended for training tow truck operators, it has helpful information for everyday drivers who can familiarize themselves with tow truck operations if they need a vehicle towed in the future.
