The Walkaround Leave No Stone Unturned We have a jam-packed issue this month with informative articles along with our “Annual Supplier Directory.” The most comprehensive supplier directory in the industry extensively lists vendors offering products and services from everything A-Z, from Accident Clean-up Dennie Ortiz to Zero Traction Robot. Use this issue as a Publisher supplier reference guide all year long. Bigger is not always better, contends Brian Riker in his article Light vs. Medium Duty. Brian walks you through the pros and cons to examine when considering your next vehicle purchase. The most important factor as you deliberate your purchase, Brian suggests, is the vital importance of assessing your book of business – what needs you have based on the work you provide and what you plan on offering in the future. Another take-away from this helpful report is the author’s claim that class 7 medium-duty is perhaps the most versatile and preferable truck on the market today. David Kolman, chassis editor, moves you along to the chassis section of the tow truck in your considerations while planning your next equipment investment. David reiterates Riker’s conjecture that the chief focus you should have is what type of business will the wrecker be handling. He touches on the varied options from cab vs. conventional, gas or diesel, transmission type to choosing between a new or used vehicle. With his unwavering focus on safety, Randall Resch discusses why J hooks should never be used in any type of recovery scenario. Never one to simply skim the surface, Resch dives deep into the dangers of using J hooks with real-world examples of what can go terribly awry. Resch asserts that only snatch blocks and rated chains be used for recovery applications. He states that there’s always “the right tool for the job” so use the proper one and don’t jeopardize your safety. Special thanks to Allstate Roadside for their support of our Safety department. Want to put a smile on your face? If so, then read the light-hearted fishing adventure by Ron Riediger, Riediger’s Towing out of Diamond, Missouri. Ron spins his yarn of two water recoveries he performed in the space of a day. This humorous tale may just get you laughing out loud. Another recovery we have in this issue features a challenging job of a loaded dump truck which had taken out 200 feet of guard rail. This well-done recovery was accomplished by Ohio’s own Rosenberry Towing. Terry “leave no stone unturned” Abejuela digs deep into the ins and outs of equipping your new truck. Terry covers an aggregate of items including; booms, winches, lighting, remote controls, camera systems to equipment placement (he shares his love of dolly bunkers). Terry’s sage advise recommends keeping in mind that equipment on the truck can add significantly to the overall weight, so be sure to select items wisely. Rounding out this issue is our monthly My Baby department featuring Carter & Sons “Workhorse #8”. Be sure to check out this Arkansas’ towing company’s pride and joy. Be safe out there!

6 • June 2021 | Towman.com

Dennie Ortiz Steve Calitri Randall Resch Terry Abejuela Jim “Buck” Sorrenti David Kolman Bill Simmons Mark Lacek Brian Riker

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Editorial Board Tommy Anderson Roy Carlson Debbie Collins Belinda Harris Bill Johnson Ron Mislan Kurt Wilson

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