Situations on the road develop in different ways, and sometimes even a car that seems to be working properly at first glance can suddenly lose the ability to move. A transmission breakdown, steering failure or wheel locking requires immediate action to evacuate the vehicle. In such cases, it comes to the rescue towing tackle - a specialized device that allows you to safely move a car with locked wheels without using an expensive tow truck with a full load.
The use of this equipment is relevant not only for professional towing services, but also for car owners who prefer to have a full set of tools in the garage for emergencies. Carefully selected and installed tackle turns a stationary obstacle on the road into a towed object, while maintaining the integrity of the vehicle components and assemblies that could be damaged when dragged along the asphalt.
In this article we will take a detailed look at the design features of various models, analyze the criteria for choosing equipment depending on the weight and type of your car, and also pay special attention to safety precautions. Understanding the operating principles of this device can save you from unnecessary financial costs and damage to the machine at a critical moment.
Design features and purpose of tackles
A tackle is a frame equipped with wheels and fixing elements, which is placed under the axle or specific wheel of a car in need of evacuation. The main purpose of the device is to lift the damaged part of the vehicle above the road, eliminating contact of tires or suspension elements with the road surface. This is especially true if the brake system or transmission is faulty, when free rolling of the wheels is impossible.
The design of the product usually includes a powerful steel frame, often reinforced with stiffeners, which allows it to withstand significant loads. The key element is the locking mechanism, which can be in the form of belts, chains or rigid grips. Load capacity - the main parameter that you should pay attention to, since exceeding the permissible weight can lead to frame deformation and an emergency situation on the road.
⚠️ Attention: The use of a trolley with a load capacity below the weight of the front or rear of the vehicle is strictly prohibited. This could result in structural failure and loss of control of the towed vehicle.
Modern models are often equipped with swivel wheel mechanisms, which greatly simplifies maneuvering when loading and moving in confined spaces. Some professional versions have built-in hydraulic or pneumatic jacks that allow you to lift the vehicle without the use of additional lifting equipment.
When purchasing a rolling wheel, pay attention to the material of the wheels: polyurethane wheels make less noise and do not leave marks on the garage floor, unlike rubber counterparts.
Classification: hard and soft tackles
There are two main types of tackles on the automotive equipment market, each of which has its own advantages and scope of application. The choice between them depends on the frequency of use, the type of vehicles that are planned to be towed, and the storage conditions of the equipment.
Hard tackles They are all-metal structures, often dismountable or foldable. They are characterized by high strength and durability. Such models are ideal for regular use in towing services or car repair shops. Their design allows the wheel to be securely fixed, eliminating any displacement during transportation.
- 🚗 High reliability and resistance to mechanical damage.
- ⚙️ Possibility of use for cars with any ground clearance (with the correct design).
- 🛡️ Maximum protection of suspension components due to rigid fixation.
Unlike them, soft tackles (often called undercarriages or carpets) are made from durable synthetic materials with reinforcement. They are compact when folded and take up minimal space in the trunk. However, their use is limited to smooth surfaces and less critical breakdowns, where only friction reduction is required.
It is important to note that for cars with low ground clearance or a sports body kit, there are specialized models with a reduced frame profile height. This allows you to place the device under the wheel without damaging the bumper or sills. When choosing, be sure to consider minimum roll height in an unloaded state.
Criteria for choosing equipment for different types of cars
Choosing the right device is not just a matter of price, but the need to ensure the safety of the towing process. The first and most important parameter is the carrying capacity. For class B and C passenger cars, models with up to 2 tonnes per axle are usually sufficient, but for SUVs and light commercial vans this figure should be significantly higher.
The second criterion is the type of fastening. Universal belts are suitable for vehicles with disc brakes and standard wheels. If we are talking about cars with wide wheels or non-standard rims, it is better to choose models with adjustable grips or chain clamps. Versatility devices often plays a decisive role if the tackle is planned to be used for different cars in a family or in a service station.
| Parameter | Passenger cars (Sedan/Hatchback) | SUVs | Light commercial vehicles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Load capacity (per axle) | up to 1500 kg | up to 2500 kg | up to 3500 kg |
| Trolley wheel type | Polyurethane/Rubber | Reinforced rubber | Pneumatic/Rubber |
| Working width | Standard | Extended | Maximum |
| Frame material | Steel (profile) | Steel (reinforced) | Steel (thick-walled) |
It is also worth paying attention to the dimensions of the device in the transport position. If you plan to carry the pod in the trunk of a personal car, a folding design will be the optimal solution. For stationary storage in a garage or workshop, you can consider more massive but stable options.
Always choose a trolley with a reserve load capacity of at least 20-30% of the vehicle’s axle weight - this will ensure a margin of safety and durability of the equipment.
Installation technology and towing process
Correct installation of the trolley is the key to safe evacuation. The process begins with preparing the site: the surface must be smooth and hard. Before starting work, it is necessary to securely secure the towed vehicle using the parking brake (if it is working) and wheel chocks.
The following is the installation procedure. If the platform is equipped with a jack, it is placed under the wheel and the car is raised until the tire lifts off the ground. For simple models, an external jack may be required. After lifting, the trolley is centered and the wheel is lowered into the fixing elements.
☑️ Checklist before towing
After installing the fastening elements (belts or chains), it is necessary to check the tension again. Backlash Rolled wheels are not allowed. Only after making sure that the fastening is secure can you remove the car from the external jack (if one was used) and start driving. The speed when towing on rolls should not exceed 40-50 km/h, and the driving style should be as smooth as possible, without sudden jerks and braking.
⚠️ Attention: When towing a car with faulty steering, the swivel wheels of the undercarriage may not have time to follow the trajectory in turns. Drive at a minimum speed and avoid sharp turns.
Maintenance and storage
Like any tool, a towing stand requires regular maintenance. Metal elements are susceptible to corrosion, especially if the operation took place in winter on roads treated with reagents. After each use, it is recommended to clean the structure from dirt, salt and moisture.
Moving parts such as wheel axles and turning mechanisms must be lubricated periodically. For this, lithium greases or sprays like WD-40 are suitable to displace moisture, followed by applying a thick lubricant. Regular checking of the condition of the wheels is also mandatory: cuts or severe wear on the tread can lead to instability when driving.
How to store a tackle in the garage?
The device should be stored in a dry place, preferably in a vertical position or suspended, to avoid deformation of the frame under its own weight. If the trolley is foldable, make sure that the locking latches are not under tension during storage.
Pay special attention to the condition of textile elements - belts and slings. The fabric should not have abrasions, tears or signs of exposure to chemicals. If defects are found on the belts, they must be replaced immediately, since they carry the main load during jerking.
Legal aspects and road safety
The use of towing trucks is regulated by traffic rules (traffic regulations). According to the law, towing a motor vehicle is only possible if such an operation does not interfere with other road users.
A mandatory requirement is the presence of working lights on the towing vehicle and, in some cases, on the towed vehicle (if technically possible). If the towed vehicle has faulty lighting, a sign must be placed on the towed vehicle "Road Train" (although in practice, when using tackles, they are often limited to the lights and alarms of both cars being turned on, which depends on the inspector’s interpretation and the specific situation).
Security - priority number one. Before driving on a public road, you must ensure that the towing vehicle's coupling device is certified and has the appropriate load capacity marking. Improvised cables or chains may not withstand the load, which will lead to an accident.
Is it possible to tow a car with an automatic transmission?
Yes, towing a car with an automatic transmission on racks is one of the safest ways, since the drive wheels are completely off the ground or rotate freely on the rack, which eliminates damage to the transmission due to lack of oil circulation.
Do I need a special license to tow with pods?
To drive a passenger car towing another passenger car on rollovers (category B), category E is usually not required if the total weight of the road train does not exceed 3500 kg. However, the rules may vary, so it is recommended to check the current traffic regulations in your country.
How often do the belts on the tackle need to be changed?
Belts do not have a strict expiration date, but require regular visual inspection. If you notice thread delamination, abrasions of more than 30% of the thickness, or damage to the fittings, the belt must be replaced immediately. On average, with active use, replacement is required every 3-5 years.
Is the undercarriage suitable for a vehicle with four-wheel drive (4WD)?
For all-wheel drive vehicles, the use of racks under one axle is often not sufficient if the second axle is not also supported. However, if the trolley is used under all four wheels (two pairs of trolleys) or if the design of the trolley allows all wheels to be completely isolated from the road, then 4WD towing is possible. Otherwise, it is better to use a tow truck with a full load.