Towing a car can be a chore, but when the car doesn’t have tires or rims, that’s a different story. Here’s what you need to know about towing cars that don’t have tires or rims.
Towing Methods for Wheel-less Cars
You might draw a blank when it comes to towing a wheel-less car, so here are different methods that can be used to tow a car without wheels.
Use a Specialized Towing Dolly
A car dolly is an excellent way to move a car without wheels. This device slides under your vehicle, allowing you to pull or push it. On the downside of things, if your car is parked in an awkward position, it can be difficult to use because the car dolly is big and heavy.
Use a Tow Strap or Winch System
You can use a tow strap to pull your car, and it’s a great option if your vehicle is parked awkwardly or in a difficult spot. If you have parked in a difficult position, you can use the tow strap and another vehicle to help pull your car out. Make sure the tow strap is securely attached to both vehicles. Prepare for a heavy-duty job.
Use a Ramp or Pulley System
A ramp is a good tool to use if you have a large car or if the car is parked in a difficult spot. Before moving the car, make sure the ramp is secured to the ground, and be prepared to use a lot of force to pull the vehicle up the ramp.
Use a Flatbed Tow Truck
If you can get a tow truck, you can use it to move your vehicle. Using a tow truck is another easy method you can use to move a vehicle that doesn’t have wheels. Like all other moving methods, ensure a clear path for the vehicle to be moved without any obstructions and debris.
Alternative Solutions for Moving a Car Without Tires or Rims
Depending on the weight and type of vehicle you want to move, other equipment may be better designed to use for towing or moving purposes.
Forklift Method
If you have access to a forklift, it’s a great machine to use to move your car. Make sure there is a clear path before you start the process of moving the vehicle.
Crane Assistance
If you have or know someone with a crane, you can use it to move your vehicle. Using a crane is one of the easiest ways to move a car without wheels. However, it may not always be possible. You will need to make sure you have created a clear path to move the vehicle to avoid damaging surrounding items and buildings.
Equipment Required for Towing a Car Without Tires or Rims
Towing a car without tires or rims isn’t impossible, but it is a chore, so you’ll need to make sure you have the necessary equipment to complete the job as effortlessly as possible. It’s always better to work smarter and not harder.
Straps and Chains
You must use straps and chains to secure the vehicle and prevent damage to the car and items around the towing area. When you’re using straps and chains, make sure these tools can handle the weight of the vehicle that needs to be towed.
Sturdy Ramp
When towing a car, you must use a ramp that is sturdy enough to handle the weight of the vehicle. The ramp you choose depends on the type of vehicle you want to tow and the distance you need to travel. Open trailers are a popular tool to use for towing cars and are generally lighter and less expensive than other options, such as enclosed trailers.
Safety Precautions When Towing a Car Without Tires or Rims
Safety is the primary focus when towing any vehicle. You need to ensure your safety, the safety of the vehicle, the safety of the people who are helping you, and other drivers.
Proper Weight Distribution
Proper weight distribution is essential for completing the towing task safely. If the weight of the vehicle is not distributed equally on the tow truck, it will be easy to lose control of the vehicle, decrease towing ability, and damage the trailer or the car being towed.
Secure Attachment
Secure attachment is also an essential part of maintaining weight distribution and safety. Whether you’re using straps, chains, or both, you need to ensure the vehicle is securely attached to the tow truck. Without secure attachment, the vehicle can easily move and damage property or injure other drivers.
Slow and Steady Towing Speed
When you’re towing a car, it’s not the time to instantly become a racecar driver. You need to maintain a slow and steady speed for your safety, and the safety of other drivers, and to ensure you to the car as smoothly as possible. It may be in your best interest to avoid the highway if you can. If not, make sure you stay in the slow lane on the highway.
It’s also important to remember the following things when towing a vehicle:
- Lighting requirements
- The brakes and steering must be in working order
- Keeping a safe distance between vehicles
- Using warning flags and lights on tow lines
- Towing mass limits
- Driver Requirements
Legal Considerations When Towing a Car Without Tires and Rims
There are legal requirements and insurance you must consider when you’re towing a vehicle. The legal requirements vary by state, so make sure you know the laws in your state before towing a vehicle.
Local Regulations
Local regulations vary depending on the state and the reason for towing the vehicle. Some states require you to obtain the proper safety equipment, notify the proper authorities, and obtain an endorsement on your driver’s license. There may also be age restrictions for towing a vehicle, so make sure you follow your state’s laws to avoid possible penalties and fines.
Required Permits
Most states do not require you to have a permit to tow a vehicle. However, if you’re towing more than 26,000 lbs., your state may require you to have a commercial driver’s license (CDL). If you’re towing less than 10,000 lbs, you won’t need a CDL. Make sure you check your state’s laws to determine if you need a special license or an endorsement on your license.
Hiring Professionals for Towing a Car Without Tires and Rims
Towing a car, especially one without tires or rims, can be difficult, and you may want to leave the towing process to the professionals.
Benefits of Professional Towing Services
There are different benefits of professional towing services that you may want to consider before trying to tow a vehicle on your own.
Peace of Mind
Towing does seem like rocket science, and it’s not. However, there are specific tools that must be used correctly to receive the most desirable results. When you hire a professional towing company, they handle everything for you, and you have peace of mind knowing the job is completed correctly.
Safety
Safety is another crucial aspect you need to consider. When you hire a professional, they have the necessary equipment and tools to get your car on the tow bed and the expertise to ensure everyone remains safe. You don’t have to make a contraption that’s probably unsafe, to get your car from point A to point B.
Availability
Most professional towing companies are available 24/7 and have a quick response time, which could mean same-day services in most situations. If you need your car towed at a specific date and time, you may be able to schedule a pickup.
Finding a Reliable Towing Company
There are different ways you can find a reliable towing company. The most common way to find a trustworthy towing company is to ask friends and family if they can recommend a company. Here are a few other ways you can find a reliable towing company.
Licensing and Insurance
Check for licensing and insurance before hiring a towing company. Ask to see a valid towing permit, and any other documentation to ensure the company is a legitimate business.
Experience and Reputation
The company’s experience and reputation go a long way when you’re looking to hire a professional. Check the company’s website and social media pages to look at online reviews and ratings provided by previous customers.
Customer Service
When you call to ask the company about their rates and the services they offer, evaluate their customer service skills and professionalism. Make sure you receive quotes with itemized pricing, so you have a breakdown of everything you’ll be required to pay.
Services Provided
Make sure the company offers the services you need. All towing companies are not a one-size-fits-all business. You need to make sure that the towing company provides towing services for your type of vehicle.
As you’ve discovered, towing a car without tires or rims is not impossible. However, you will need to make sure you have the necessary tools and equipment to get the job done. Happy towing!
