The Complete Handbook of Motor Vehicle Towing

From a simple flat-tire tow with a rope to a 40-ton tractor-semitrailer recovery, motor vehicle towing is a discipline with its own physics, standards, and safety hazards. The Complete Handbook of Motor Vehicle Towing cuts through the marketing claims and forum lore to give you the practical, technical knowledge you need to get the job done right. Written with a neutral, educational tone, this book is the resource professionals and serious enthusiasts have been missing.

Inside, you will find detailed coverage of every major towing method and equipment type, including tow dollies, car carriers, wheel-lift tow trucks, underlift units, and heavy-duty rotators. The book explains the specifications that truly matter for each application, such as gross vehicle weight rating, payload, tongue weight, and hydraulic capacity, and how to apply them to your specific vehicles and operational demands. Step-by-step installation guidance, usage procedures, maintenance schedules, and common troubleshooting scenarios are all grounded in real-world examples and established industry standards.

The book also covers the business side of towing: how the industry operates, how to position a towing service or retail business, notable equipment brands and their market positions, and where the technology is heading. An extensive FAQ and a detailed glossary give you quick answers to the questions every buyer and operator encounters. If you are involved in towing cars, trucks, trailers, or any motor vehicle, this is the handbook to keep within reach.