Can I Get an Electric Car Towed?

Posted on August 2, 2017 by Zores

Electric cars are trickier to tow because they require some special attention and a certain type of tow truck. Continue reading to learn what these requirements are before your electric car or truck accidentally gets towed, improperly.

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How to Tow an Electric Vehicle

If you were to have your electric vehicle towed by a standard tow truck, you would encounter some costly problems. In order to tow an electric car, you must disengage the driveshaft from the electric motor first, so that the motor wheels roll along with the vehicle, freely. If you do not do this, your car will require some serious repair. You see, the majority of electric vehicles being driven lack a transmission, so there is nothing connecting the motor to the driving wheels. They also lack a neutral setting, so there is nothing that automatically disabled the drivetrain, which means the wheels do not automatically disengage from the motor. In a standard vehicle, the neutral setting takes care of this part.

Towing an electric car from its wheels is damaging because the motor will continue to spin and the cooling system won’t be turned on. The friction of the motor will lead to an accumulation of heat, which can be highly damaging to the motor, and can even total it altogether. Electric motors can run you an upwards of $5,000 or more.

Safe Towing

As long as you instruct your tow truck operator to disengage the driveshaft before towing your electric car from the wheels, you should be in good shape. However, if you drive an electric car and you need a tow, you can also request a flatbed tow truck. This is the perfect solution to towing electric vehicles since there is no need to tow from the wheels. It also saves time since there is no need to disengage the driveshaft, which takes and average of 20 to 30 minutes to do.

Indianapolis Towing and Recovery

Indianapolis Towing 317-247-8484

Call Zore’s Inc. at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour towing and recovery in Indianapolis, Indiana. We open a family-owned and operated business for 90 years, so you can trust us for prompt and professional service. Since 1901, we have provided 24 hour towing in Indianapolis and throughout Indiana, as well as, property management and roadside assistance services. Request a free estimate from a friendly office manager, anytime!

Should I Rent or Buy a Trailer?

Posted on July 12, 2017 by Zores

To rent or to buy? That is the question that many people are asking themselves when they are faced with a need to transport large or heavy materials. If you are asking yourself this same question, continue reading to learn some key points to consider in order to aid in your decision making process.

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Renting Versus Owning

Whether you are moving into a new home, planning some major landscaping renovations, or preparing for a long-distance road trip, it is likely that you will need to transport some heavy items. Although you can choose to rent a trailer for all of these needs and more, you also have the option of investing in one. In order to feel confident about your decision to rent or buy, here are some key points to consider:

⇛ Trailer Type – Which type of trailer will you need for your transportation objectives? There are several different types to choose from, including trailers designed for boat towing, motorcycle towing, dolly towing, flatbed towing, and more. All of these range in price as well. Once you determine which type of trailer best fits your hauling needs, you can move forward with the decision-making process.

⇛ Trailer Cost – You must set a realistic budget for yourself, whether you plan to purchase new or used. If you purchase a used trailer from a private seller, it is important to ensure that is in good condition in order to make your investment worthwhile. If you feel like purchasing a trailer is out of your budget, you may want to stick with occasional rentals until your budget expands.

⇛ Trailer Storage – Owning a trailer is one thing, but storing it is another. Many people make the mistake of not thinking their purchase through. They get the trailer home and then realize there is nowhere to keep it, which leads to unexpected additional costs, such as a storage unit or shed installation. You must also check with your neighborhoods HOA to ensure they allow trailers in driveways.

⇛ Frequency of Use – If you only need to use your trailer for one job, renting is the best option. However, if you feel confident that you will get a lot of use out of your trailer, owning one is more lucrative. Create a list of all the possible tasks you can do with your trailer to see if it is worth the investment.

Need a Professional Tow in Indianapolis?

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If you are in need of a professional tow, call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 to get back on the road fast. Since 1901, we have provided 24 hour towing in Indianapolis and throughout Indiana, as well as, property management and roadside assistance services.

How to Prepare a Car for a Long Distance Tow

Posted on July 7, 2017 by Zores

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Your vehicle is one of your most precious assets. It is the vessel that gets you from place to place, efficiently. So when it comes time to relocate, it is likely that you will want to bring your ride along with you. Many people hire a professional towing company for long distance tow truck service; however, you can also choose to tow your car with another lead vehicle, such as an RV or truck. Regardless of which method you select for long distance towing, it is important to prepare your vehicle properly in order to ensure its safe arrival.

Continue reading to learn what you should do before sending your car off on a long distance tow.

❶ Insure It

If your car is not already insured, it needs to be! Be sure to double check with your automotive insurance carrier to ensure that your policy is still active and that you are covered. You may want to add on additional, temporary insurance coverage for long distance tows. This will provide coverage in out of state areas.

❷ Clean It

Although you will likely clean it again after it arrives at your final destination, cleaning your car before a long distance trip can reduce the buildup that occurs while on the road. This helps preserve the luster of the paint, as well as, prevent premature rusting. So give your car a good, thorough cleaning, inside and out. There is no need to have it detailed; a simple interior and exterior clean will do the trick.

❸ Service It

If your car will be in tow longer than 3 or 4 weeks, you may need to change the oil beforehand. Failing to do so can result in engine damage caused by harmful contaminants in used engine oil. It is also a good idea to fill up the tank with gas. Not only does this provide convenience since it will be ready to use upon arrival, it protects the fuel tank by preventing excess moisture and preserving its inner seals. If you are towing your vehicle on a dolly, be sure the tire pressure is at the right levels and inflate them as needed. Last, be sure the battery is fully charged.

❹ Inspect It

If using a professional long distance tow company, it is wise to inspect your vehicle for damage and record your findings. This way, you can compare the condition of your vehicle prior to and upon arrival. Take pictures of any existing damage, and most importantly, have the vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic to check for leaks, mechanical problems, and more.

Indianapolis Long Distance Tow Truck Service

Zore’s Towing Indianapolis 317-247-8484

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for professional long distance towing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Since 1901, we have provided 24 hour towing, as well as, property management and roadside assistance services. Whether you need pulled out of a ditch in the middle of the night, or transport a heavy piece of machinery across the country, we are the Indianapolis towing company to trust for safety, security, and affordability. Call 317-247-8484 to request a free estimate, anytime.

What Do I Need to Get My Car Out of an Impound Lot?

Posted on June 12, 2017 by Zores

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Having your car towed is definitely not something you put on your to-do list for the day. So when it happens, it is never at a convenient time or place. In fact, it is almost always unexpected, which usually makes it quite alarming as well. But it is important to remember that vehicles only get towed for a legitimate reason, so it is best to simply shake off the emotional aspect and use it as an opportunity to learn a life lesson instead. The fastest way to get your vehicle back and get on with your day is to manage the situation head-on, and go through the required motions with a positive attitude. Continue reading to learn where to get started, what you’ll need, and what to expect.

First Find Your Car

The first step to retrieving your towed vehicle is to locate its whereabouts. Go to the spot where your vehicle was towed and look around for posted signs about parking rules and towing information. These signs are generally posted all around parking spots and lots, and are easy to find. They contain the contact information you need to locate your vehicle. Simply call the number and the phone attendant will instruct you on what to do next. Usually, cities have a local impound lot used for the surrounding network of towing providers. For instance, in Indianapolis, Indiana, a towed vehicle is most likely found at the Indianapolis Auto Return Impound Lot located in South Indy.

What You Need

You can’t just show up to an impound lot and get your car back with by word of mouth. You must be able to produce a number of legal documents to prove you are the rightful owner and a licensed driver. If you are the legal owner to the vehicle but you do not have a valid drivers’ license, be sure to take along a companion that is licensed to drive so you may leave the lot with your vehicle. If you are not the rightful owner, you must bring the rightful owner along with you. If you fail to do these, the impound lot will not allow you to take back possession of your car.

For documentation, here’s what you’ll likely need:

☑ Proof of Vehicle Ownership – Depending on your city and where you purchased your car, you will need to provide proof of ownership. This includes a vehicle title, company identification, rental agreement, an MV-50 form (Retail Certificate of Sale), an MCO (Manufacturer’s Certificate of Sale), or a bill of sale. Whichever one you use, they must all be accompanied with the vehicle’s registration.

☑ Valid Driver’s License – Bring a licensed driver with you if your driver’s license is expired. They can be authorized to drive your car off the lot. If you are do not have a valid license, you must pay to have your vehicle towed from the impound lot to your house.

☑ Money – You need to have access to sufficient funds in order to pay for the towing fees and impound storage fees. Without payment, you cannot get your car back. And interest accrues each day, so the longer you wait the more expensive it will be. The impound lot will inform you how much it will cost to get your car out before you come.

Indianapolis Tow Truck Assistance

Zore’s Towing Indianapolis 317-247-8484

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 if your car was towed, or you need a tow, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed and insured tow truck operators provide punctual and prompt tow truck services, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week! Contact us at 317-247-8484 to request a free estimate, anytime.

Was Your Car Just Towed in Downtown Indianapolis?

Posted on April 14, 2017 by Zores

It was there, and now it’s not. But don’t panic.

Here’s what to do to get it back fast!

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It’s a common scenario that’s happened to most of us, your car is not where you parked it last. Once you have dealt with the immediate feeling of anxiety and panic, you realize that your car has probably been towed, and then the rage sets in. But it’s okay, because, although it was not in your daily plans, there are quick and simple steps you can take that will lead you to a happier place, and getting your car back. Continue reading to learn how to get started.

Locate Informational Parking Signs

First, look for a sign in the parking lot, or near the parking spot, that contains the tow company information. These signs are usually rectangular in shape and white. They have the contact information of the assigned tow company that handles the towing for that parking lot. Just call the number and talk to the receptionist. Explain to them that your car is missing and you think it was towed. Give them the following information: the address of the parking lot, the make and model of the vehicle, and your name. The receptionist should check their inventory and see if your particular vehicle is in their possession. If it is, they will give you directions on how to get to their establishment.

If They DO NOT Have Your Car

If they say they do not have your vehicle, then most likely, it has not been towed. If you are leasing or financing your vehicle, it could have be repossessed. If that is not a possibility, then perhaps your car was stolen. In this case, hang up and immediately call the police. Do not dial 911, because it is not a life or death emergency. The police will dispatch an on-duty officer in the area to come by and take down your information. Sometimes they may even offer you a ride home.

If They DO Have Your Car

If the tow yard does have your vehicle, then catch a ride to the establishment, and be prepared to provide the necessary information needed to retrieve your car. You’ll need updated proof of insurance on the vehicle, a valid drivers’ license, the title to the car in your name, and the amount of money required for the fine. If you can present all these things to the tow company, you immediately get your car returned to you hassle-free.

Indianapolis Towing Assistance

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If you are looking for information about Indiana towing laws, or require emergency towing services in Indianapolis, Zore’s Towing are the professionals who can assist you the best. Call us at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour, Indianapolis towing service, emergency roadside assistance, property management, container service, and more. We serve all of Central Indiana with the most competitive prices.

Interesting Facts About 18 Wheeler Tow Trucks

Posted on April 6, 2017 by Zores

When it comes to emergency roadside situations, 18 wheeler tow trucks are a useful commodity to have around. They are commonly used for winching, roll-outs, traffic clearance, and many other forms of heavy-duty towing needs. Although they are tow trucks, they are often referred to as semis or semi-trucks. However, the cab and engine on these types of trucks are separate from the trailer, and the trailer does not have front wheels, so they are more accurately described as semi-trailers. The average length of the trailer on an 18 wheeler truck is around 53 feet, and some can be over 20 feet wide! But these lengths can vary. Continue reading to learn more interesting facts about 18 wheeler semi-trailer tow trucks.

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18 Wheeler Tow Truck Facts

18 wheeler tow trucks are designed with a special motor that allows for constant operation. The engine is only stopped for routine service, like oil changes, or to abide idling regulations. Any other time, the engine remains running.

On the subject of oil changes, an 18 wheeler tow truck can house more than 15 quarts of oil at one time. They only require oil changes every 5,000 miles, unlike standard vehicles that require such services on a more frequent basis.

When an 18 wheeler tow truck needs to come to a stop, it requires 40 times more stopping time than a standard vehicle would! That means they must apply pressure to the brakes much sooner than a typical driver.

A large quantity of the total number of registered 18 wheeler tow trucks are in Texas, California, and Florida.
Drivers who operate 18 wheeler tow trucks typically log over 140,000 miles of driving each year!

Indianapolis Tow Truck Service

Zore’s Towing Indianapolis 317-247-8484

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for prompt and affordable Indianapolis tow truck service you can trust. We offer 24 hour towing services for all make and model vehicles, as well as, a long list of additional services, such as container service, property management, and more. Call 317-247-8484 to request a free quote, today.

Which Chain Grade Should I Use for Towing?

Posted on March 9, 2017 by Zores

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Chain is a highly-versatile and useful tool that has been around for thousands of years. Its many applications include lifting, tension, tie downs, and towing. Throughout the years of chain manufacturing, general standards of practice, safety, and inspection have improved drastically. In the past, any type of chain was used for any application, without consideration of these factors. So now, the American Society of Testing & Materials (ASTM), American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), and the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) all regulate the manufacturing, testing, use, inspection, and repair of chain. Today, chain is stronger, tougher, and more reliable, and comes in various grades for different applications. When it comes to using chain for towing, it is vital to use the proper grade. If you are looking for a proper towing chain, continue reading to learn the different grades and their recommended towing functions.

Understanding Grades of Chain

As you begin to look for chains, you will notice their grades in the form of a capital letter followed by a number, such as G30. The grade is the maximum breaking strength of the chain, and measured in newtons per millimeter squared (N/mm2). So a chain that is graded as a G30 means that the maximum stress on the chain at its ultimate strength is 300 newtons per millimeter squared. As for towing, the most common chain grades are G43 and G70, but other grades are also necessary if overhead lifting or heavy tie-downs are needed. Look below for details of towing chain grades.

G43:

This is a common chain grade that is suitable for towing, meeting all ASTM and ASME specifications. It most common towing applications include heavy-duty towing, logging, and container securement. But this chain is not intended for overhead lifting. You would need a stronger grade for this type of application.

G70:

This is another common chain grade used for towing applications. As a heat-treated carbon steel chain with no additional alloys added in, it is higher in strength compared to the G43. It has a gold chrome finish that protects it from premature corrosion. Its common towing uses include logging, load securement, trucking, lashing, and even trawling. Just like the G43, it is not intended for overhead lifting.

Recommended Chain Grades for Overhead-Lifting: G80 & G100

Indianapolis Tow Truck Service

Zore’s Towing Indianapolis 317-247-8484

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 if you need prompt towing services in Indianapolis or Central Indiana. We are certified tow truck operators with an extensive fleet of trucks and a larger inventory of innovative equipment for towing and recovery applications. We offer a wide range of towing services, from light duty tows to heavy equipment transport, and much more. Call 317-247-8484 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis tow truck service, today.

The 7 Keys to Hooking Up a Load for Towing

Posted on January 11, 2017 by Zores

When it comes to towing, you want to take your time and go slow. That includes slow acceleration, deceleration, and wide turns. Everything movement needs to be eased into while towing a vehicle or other type of load. By gliding into turns, lane changes, accelerating, and stopping, you will have better control of your vehicle and the load it’s towing. Towing is not too complicated, but it does require some forethought, knowledge, and practice. One place to start is to learn the basics of how to hook up a load and tow safely. Continue reading to review the 7 keys to hooking up a load for towing.

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7 Reminders for Tow Setups

❶ Hitch and Ball

It is important to check the hitch and hitch ball to ensure they are the proper size and capacity. You see, hitches and hitch balls are available in several different “Classes”, each one with different weight limits and maximums. You can purchase the correct capacity hitch receiver and ball at any local automotive parts store at a relatively inexpensive price. Prices will vary among retailers and manufacturers.

❷ Weight-Distribution Hitch

Aside from choosing the right size hitch and ball, you need to make sure your load does not require this additional part. If you are towing more than 5,000 pounds, you will need a weight distribution hitch, which evens out the amount of weight to deliver smoother transportation and control. Refer to your owners’ manual for information about your vehicle’s recommended weight distribution hitch.

❸ Lights

You always want to check all exterior lights on both the towing vehicle and the trailer or vehicle being towed. This includes tail lights, head lights, brake lights, turn signals, flashers, and more. You will need an electrical wiring kit to connect the power of your vehicle lights to the towed vehicle. Be sure to plug these in before you leave for every tow.

❹ Ball Hook Up

Never forget to hook the hitch ball up all the way and make sure it is not loose on the receiver. Always clamp it down all the way and insert the pin and clip for added safety and security.

❺ Safety Chains

Always use and hook up your safety chains after hooking up the hitch. Do this before every tow, and be sure they are hooked on securely. These will prevent your load from coming detached in the case the something in your towing setup malfunctions or defects.

❻ Balance the Load

Before you leave the drive, be sure your load is balanced and evenly distributed. This will help reduce the possibility of shifting while in drive. You must also ensure that your hitch and trailer are lined up and sitting level. You don’t want the back end to stick up, or the hitch to be pressing down.

❼ Tires

Tires are very important when it comes to towing safety and efficiency. Check your tread to ensure optimal traction, especially in wet or inclement weather. Be sure they are properly inflated before every tow as well, and replace them as needed.

Indianapolis Towing

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If you are in need of a professional tow, call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 to get back on the road fast. Since 1901, we have provided 24 hour towing in Indianapolis and throughout Indiana, as well as, property management and roadside assistance services. Call 317-247-8484 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis towing, today.

Helpful Advice for Towing in Snow and Ice

Posted on December 13, 2016 by Zores

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Aside from hazardous snow and ice, towing can be a challenge all on its own. Safe and effective towing requires a certain level of focus, preventative maintenance, and knowledge. But in the wintertime, drivers need to take on a whole new level of precautions, as well as, practice a separate set of techniques to manage snow, ice, and slippery conditions. Continue reading to learn some helpful advice for winter towing.

Winter Towing Tips

All of the fundamentals of telling remain the same, in terms of setup, parts, hitching a trailer, and more. The difference between standard towing and winter towing is simply a matter of changing your towing techniques, attaching safety chains properly, and using snow chains. Let’s take a closer look!

Snow Chains

Snow chains are an excellent accessory for winter driving because they allow your tires to gain extra traction on the road and slippery conditions. Snow chains are available at any automotive parts store or local home improvement store with an automotive department. Depending on the size you need, prices will vary but typically remain reasonable. Be sure to choose the proper size chains for your towing vehicle, vehicles, and/or trailer. It is helpful to practice fitting and removing your snow chains so that you are efficient when the time comes to use them.

Safety Chains

Also called towing cables or straps, safety chains are a common accessory used during the winter to provide extra security when towing. In fact, it is recommended to use safety chains for every tow, not just wintertime towing. Safety chains help to prevent uncontrollable swaying, swerving, and diverging of your trailer or the vehicle being towed. You can find them any automotive parts store or local home improvement store with an automotive department. Just be sure to choose the proper size for your towing vehicle.

Towing Techniques

Towing in the snow and ice is very similar to standard towing; however, you will need to invoke some additional precautions. You will need to give yourself more time to come to a stop, and you’ll also need to give yourself more time to take turns, accelerate, and decelerate. It is recommended to visit a large vacant parking lot to practice all of these maneuvers in your full towing setup. If your towing vehicle gets stuck in the snow, contact a reputable Indianapolis towing company for professional recovery services you can trust.

Indianapolis Towing Service

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24 Hour Towing in Indianapolis 317-247-8484

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour towing service in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We are highly trained and certified to truck operators that retain a large fleet of wrecker equipment that allows us to recover and tow all make and model vehicles and commodities. Call 317-247-8484 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis towing and recovery, today.

Call Zore’s for All Your Light, Medium, and Heavy Duty Towing Needs in Indianapolis!

Posted on November 14, 2016 by Zores

Safe and Professional Towing in a Flash!

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Zore’s Inc. has been a family owned and operated company since 1927! And there is a very good reason why they have been in business for so long. As a licensed, bonded, and insured wrecker company, our number one priority is to deliver the highest standards of excellence for service, professionalism, and customer care. And for nearly 90 years, we have excelled in just that! Our state-certified wrecker operators have a long list of credentials, including classroom training experience, certifications, and more. And they do a lot more than just tow!

Our extensive fleet of state-of-the-art tow trucks and equipment allow us to provide a wide range of light, medium, and heavy duty towing and recovery services, safely and efficiently. Check out our article about the difference between these tows, here. Whether you need a simple tow to the auto shop or recovery services for a water-trapped vehicle, we are the professional to trust.

Light, Medium, and Heavy Duty Towing!

Light Duty Towing and Recovery:

Cars, Trucks, SUV’s, Vans, etc.

Medium Duty Towing and Recovery:

Moving Vans, RV’s, Box Trucks, etc.

Heavy Duty Towing and Recovery:

Semi’s, Buses, Motor Coaches, etc.

Large Equipment Hauling and Heavy Machinery Transport:

Semi tractor-trailers, Cars, SUVS, Trucks, Planes, Semi-Loads, Fuel tankers, Buses, Construction Equipment, Agricultural Equipment, Combines, Motorhomes, etc.

Other Services

We also implement quick clearance for storm damages and traffic collisions, as well as, heavy equipment transport, roadside assistance, property management, and more! We even hold a public auto auction on our premises every Wednesday at 4 PM! You can get bottom-dollar deals on all sorts of motorized commodities, including cars, trucks, SUVs, boats, jet skis, forklifts, dozers, and more!

Indianapolis Towing and Recovery

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Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis towing and recovery, property management, and roadside assistance. We are happy to answer your questions about our services, prices, service areas, and more. Call 317-247-8484 when you need safe and affordable tow truck service in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We serve Indy and all of Central Indiana!