This Dynamic 755 is an integrated twin line unit equipped with a 5,000-pound self-loading wheel lift and two mini spool 8,000-pound winches.

which increases towing payload. These towing specific units have improved driver visibility from the cab of the truck to the rear allowing operators to easily and safely back up to vehicles for towing as well as backing towed vehicles into narrow spaces. Autoloaders equipped with inside controls and strategically placed back up cameras allow operators to safely perform a significant amount of the hook up procedure before exiting the tow truck. Being able to perform a good portion of the hook up from inside the cab of the truck improves the safely for the tow truck operator. Autoloaders don’t require a manual adjustment of the wheel lift crossbar to the width of the towed vehicle. The potential for operator fatigue and injuries is reduced since the tow truck operator has less work to perform manually. Towing low clearance vehicles or vehicles with flat tires or small tires are easily handled with an autoloader using spacers. There is no need to double pick or use a floor jack and lumber in order to adjust the wheel retainers tight enough under the wheel to create Work the non-traffic side - Stay Safe!

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under carriage clearance for the oil pan. Some autoloaders utilize a wheel grid system that folds all the way around the end of the wheel lift crossbar. When using this style of wheel grid system the wheel retaining arms can be hydraulically adjusted tighter under the wheel for small tires and flat tires eliminating the need for a spacer. Most autoloader wheel lifts feature a wheel lift crossbar design that allows for sharp angle hook ups. Some are able to perform a 90 degree angled hook up to tow a vehicle that is parallel parked with ease. Autoloaders often utilize a wheel tie down strap system with one point of contact on the wheel. Make sure to follow the equipment manufacturers recommended procedures for securing the wheels in the wheel lift grid and don’t forget the use of secondary attachment chains (safety chains) on every tow. An autoloader can also be equipped with an extendable boom and winches to provide recovery capability. Recovery work is a bit more limited as the wheel lift is integrated into the recovery boom. Some autoloaders have a pulley system that can be attached to the wheel lift crossbar allowing lifts off the end of the wheel lift boom. Additional steps may be required to prevent the wheel lift crossbar from pivoting when utilizing this feature. Autoloaders may require

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An integrated design with an autoloader wheel lift and a non-extendable boom with a winch.

AmericanTowman.com | September 2021 • 19