Long Distance Towing: How to Prepare Your Vehicle for a Lengthy Haul

Posted on June 11, 2024 by Zores

In today’s fast-paced world, the need for long-distance towing services is becoming increasingly common. Whether you’re relocating, heading out on an extended vacation, or simply need your vehicle transported over a long distance, preparing your vehicle for such a journey is crucial. Ensuring that your car is ready for the trip can save you time, money, and stress, not to mention the potential hazards of an ill-prepared vehicle on the road.

This blog post aims to provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to prepare your vehicle for long-distance towing. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of what long-distance towing entails, factors that affect it, and practical tips for getting your vehicle ready for the road.

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Understanding Long-Distance Towing

What is Long-Distance Towing?

Long-distance towing refers to the transportation of a vehicle over extensive distances, often spanning several hundred miles. Unlike local towing, which typically involves short distances within a city or town, transporting a vehicle over long distances necessitates specialized equipment and careful planning to ensure safe and efficient towing.

Differences Between Local and Long-Distance Towing

Local towing is usually straightforward, involving short trips to the nearest repair shop or dealership. In contrast, long haul tows necessitate meticulous planning and preparation. The primary differences include the need for robust towing equipment, experienced drivers, and a thorough understanding of the route and conditions along the way.

Why Long-Distance Towing is Essential

For many vehicle owners, long-distance towing is a necessity rather than a luxury. Relocation, vacations, and vehicle breakdowns far from home are just a few scenarios where long-distance towing becomes indispensable. Understanding its importance can help you make informed decisions when the need arises.

Factors Affecting Long-Distance Towing

Vehicle Weight, Size, and Type

The weight, size, and type of your vehicle play a significant role in determining the towing approach. Larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs require more powerful towing equipment compared to smaller cars. Ensure that your towing service has the appropriate equipment to handle your vehicle’s specifications.

Weather Conditions and Terrain

The weather and terrain along the route can significantly impact the towing process. Adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, or high winds can pose challenges, while rough or mountainous terrain requires extra caution. It’s essential to discuss these factors with your towing service provider to ensure they’re well-prepared for any eventuality.

Legal and Regulatory Considerations

Different states and regions may have specific regulations governing long-distance towing. These can include weight limits, permits, and safety standards. Make sure that your towing company complies with all relevant laws to avoid any legal complications during the trip.

Preparing Your Vehicle for a Safe Journey

Regular Maintenance Tasks

Before embarking on a long-distance tow, it’s critical to ensure that your vehicle is in optimal condition. Regular maintenance tasks such as oil changes, brake inspections, and battery checks can go a long way in preventing issues on the road. A well-maintained vehicle is less likely to encounter problems during the tow.

Comprehensive Checklist for Long Trips

A detailed checklist can help you cover all bases when preparing your vehicle for a long-distance tow. Key items to include are:

Tires: Check for proper inflation and tread depth.
Brakes: Ensure that they are in good working condition.
Fluids: Top off all essential fluids, including oil, coolant, and brake fluid.
Lights: Verify that all lights are functioning correctly.
Battery: Check the battery’s charge and condition.

Personal Items and Documentation

Remove any valuable personal items from your vehicle to prevent loss or damage during the tow. Additionally, gather all necessary documentation, such as registration, insurance, and identification, to ensure a smooth process.

Choosing the Right Towing Service

Factors to Consider

Selecting the right towing service is crucial for a hassle-free experience. Key factors to consider include the company’s reputation, experience, and the quality of their equipment. Look for customer reviews and testimonials to gauge their reliability and professionalism.

Importance of Insurance and Roadside Assistance

Ensure that the towing company offers comprehensive insurance coverage for your vehicle during the tow. This provides peace of mind in case of any unforeseen issues. Additionally, inquire about their roadside assistance services, which can be invaluable in case of emergencies.

Cost and Transparency

Transparent pricing is essential when choosing a towing company. Request a detailed quote that outlines all potential costs, including any additional fees for special equipment or services. This helps avoid any surprises when the bill arrives.

Safety Tips for the Road

Driving Behavior and Speed Control

If you’re towing your vehicle yourself, it’s crucial to adopt safe driving practices. Maintain a steady speed, avoid sudden maneuvers, and keep a safe distance from other vehicles. Following these guidelines can help prevent accidents and ensure a smooth towing experience.

Emergency Preparedness

Despite thorough preparation, emergencies can still occur. Equip your vehicle with an emergency kit that includes items like a first aid kit, flashlight, and basic tools. Knowing how to handle common issues, such as flat tires or engine trouble, can make a significant difference in critical situations.

Communication and Support

Maintain open communication with your tow truck service provider throughout the journey. Ensure that you have their contact information readily available and that they provide regular updates on the progress of the tow. This helps you stay informed and address any concerns promptly.

Conclusion

Preparing your vehicle for long-distance towing might seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and planning, it can be a smooth and stress-free process. By understanding the nuances of long-distance towing, considering the key factors involved, and following practical preparation and safety tips, you can ensure that your vehicle reaches its destination safely and efficiently. Remember, the importance of choosing a reliable towing service cannot be overstated. It’s a decision that can make or break your towing experience.

If you’re in need of trusted and professional car transport or long haul towing, let our pros help. Contact Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for a wide range of towing services in Indianapolis and surrounding counties. We offer everything from light-duty and long distance towing to heavy equipment transportation, wrecker service, lowboy tows, flatbed tows, and more.

Essential Tips for Hassle-Free Long Distance Towing

Posted on November 9, 2023 by Zores

Towing over long distances can seem like a daunting task fraught with potential pitfalls, but with the right preparation and knowledge, it can be a smooth and hassle-free experience. In this blog post, we will guide you through essential tips for successful long distance towing. We’ll cover everything from safety measures to the ins and outs of trailer towing, ensuring that you are ready to hit the road confidently, whatever the distance. So, strap in and get ready to become a towing pro!

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Essential Advice for Long Distance Towing

Safety First

Before embarking on a long distance tow, it is crucial to prioritize safety. This means ensuring that your vehicle and trailer are in good working condition, including checking the tires, brakes, lights, and all other essential components. It’s also vital to secure all cargo and make sure that your tow vehicle can handle the weight of the load. Most importantly, make sure that both you and any passengers are buckled up and ready for the journey. Safety should always be the top priority when it comes to towing, regardless of distance.

Plan Your Route

When towing over long distances, it’s essential to plan your route carefully. This means taking into account factors such as road conditions, inclines, and fuel stops. It’s also wise to have a backup plan in case of any unexpected closures or detours. Taking the time to plan out your route can save you from unnecessary stress and delays along the way.

Know Your Trailer

If you’re new to long distance towing, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with your trailer before hitting the road. This means understanding its weight limit, proper loading techniques, and how to properly hitch and unhitch it from your tow vehicle. Knowing your trailer inside and out will not only make for a safer journey but also help you make any necessary adjustments along the way.

Practice Makes Perfect

If possible, take some time to practice towing before embarking on a long distance journey. This could mean taking short trips or even just practicing backing up and maneuvering with your trailer in an empty parking lot. The more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you will become when towing over long distances.

Trailer Towing Tips

Long distance towing requires some extra precautions when it comes to hauling a trailer. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

▶ Ensure that your trailer’s tires are properly inflated and in good condition.

▶ Make sure all lights and signals are working correctly to ensure visibility on the road.

▶ Distribute the weight evenly throughout the trailer to avoid any unbalanced or swaying loads.

▶ Use caution when braking, as a fully-loaded trailer can significantly increase stopping distance.

▶ Take frequent breaks to check on your load and make sure everything is secure.

By following these tips, you can help ensure a safe and successful long distance tow.

Benefits of Professional Long Distance Towing Services

While it’s possible to tow long distances on your own, sometimes it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Here are some benefits of hiring professional towing services:

► Experienced and trained operators who know how to handle long distance towing safely.

► Proper equipment and tools for handling different types of vehicles and trailers.

► Insurance coverage in case of any unforeseen incidents or accidents.

► Peace of mind knowing that your vehicle and cargo are in capable hands.

Conclusion

Long distance towing may seem daunting at first, but with the right preparation and knowledge, it can be a hassle-free experience. Remember to prioritize safety, plan your route carefully, familiarize yourself with your trailer, and practice before hitting the road. Or perhaps just go with the pros by hiring a towing and recovery company! By following these essential tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a pro at long distance towing.

Do you need to haul equipment, ship a car, or tow some cargo over a long distance in or across Indiana state lines? Contact Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for heavy equipment transportation services in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties. We transport all throughout Indiana and across state lines. We also provide long distance towing.

Tips for Towing Your Car Across Long Distances

Posted on September 11, 2023 by Zores

Embarking on a long-distance journey with your precious vehicle in tow requires careful planning and preparation. The process of towing your car across long distances might seem daunting, especially if it’s your first time, but don’t worry.

This comprehensive guide is here to help you navigate the ins and outs of long-distance towing. We’ll share essential towing tips and direct you through the complexities of car transport. These tips will ensure a safe and successful journey for both you and your vehicle. Buckle up as we guide you down the road to a smooth and hassle-free towing experience.

What You Need to Know Before You Tow

Before embarking on your journey of towing your car across long distances, there are a few important steps you’ll need to take. It’s essential that every part of the car is in good condition and functioning properly before you hit the road. The following tips will help ensure safe and efficient travel:

▶ Have an experienced technician or mechanic perform a thorough inspection of your car to ensure it’s in top condition.

▶ Check all the fluid levels, as well as the brakes and tires, for signs of wear and tear.

▶ Make sure you have a full tank of gas to prevent running out on your journey.

▶ If possible, opt for an enclosed trailer to transport your vehicle as this will provide more protection during long-distance travel.

▶ Pack an emergency kit with supplies such as a flashlight, blankets, flares, and other essentials for roadside emergencies.

Out On the Open Road

Once you’ve completed all of the necessary pre-towing preparations, it’s time to hit the road! Here are some key tips that will help ensure a safe and successful journey:

▶ Allow yourself plenty of time to reach your destination. This will reduce the need for excessive speed and help you avoid fatigue.

▶ Be aware of the weight limit of your car and trailer. Overloading can cause serious damage to both vehicles as well as create a safety hazard on the road.

▶ Secure all items in the trailer firmly with straps or bungee cords to prevent them from shifting during travel.

▶ Monitor your vehicle’s temperature often. Overheating is one of the most common causes of breakdowns while towing. If you’re traveling during bad weather, be sure to drive slowly and with extra caution.

▶ Take regular breaks every two hours because it is important for both your safety and that of others on the road.

▶ Keep a close eye on your mirrors at all times. Doing so will help you spot any potential hazards or obstacles in your path.

Hire a Professional Car Transport Company

Rather than dealing with transporting your car across state lines yourself, you could save loads of time and stress by hiring a professional car transport company. Such companies are well-equipped with a large fleet of tow trucks and equipment that allows them to safely and efficiently ship vehicles virtually anywhere in the country. You might be surprised to learn that the cost of hiring professional long distance towing services is closely equivalent to purchasing all of the equipment and materials you would need to transport the vehicle yourself.

In Conclusion

Towing your car across long distances doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. With careful planning, thorough vehicle inspection, and by following the key towing tips presented in this guide, you can ensure a safe and efficient journey. And remember, hiring a professional car transport company for long-distance towing can save you time, stress, and potentially even money. Ultimately, the goal is to get your vehicle to its destination securely, and choosing the best method to achieve this depends on your specific needs, circumstances, and the distance you’re traveling.

We hope this blog was helpful at answering your questions about shipping or transporting vehicles long distances in the United States. If you have further inquiries, please contact Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for licensed and insured long distance towing and heavy equipment transport. We work across state lines and offer the most competitive rates around.

Information About Hotshot Hauling Service

Posted on June 16, 2022 by Zores

Many industries take advantage of expedited trucking and trailer transportation services when they have smaller loads to transport. This service is known as hotshot hauling, also called hotshot trucking. Continue reading to learn more about hotshot hauling, including the types of trailers used for hotshot trucking and which towing company to trust in Central Indiana for the job.

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What is Hotshot Hauling?

Hotshot hauling is a custom towing service that specializes in accelerated, small load transports. These services are intended for clients who wish to transport time-sensitive freights within a required time frame. Hotshot trucking can be utilized by both public and private clients, and for all sorts of transportation needs. In many cases, large corporations and organizations will use hotshot hauling services for foods, beverages, chemicals, medical equipment, live freights, and similar cargoes that are not compatible with long transportation times.

Private citizens might choose hotshot trucking services for goods and equipment that need to be transferred in a rush. For instance, an Indiana-based father might hire a towing company to provide hotshot hauling service for a vehicle he wishes to send to his daughter out in California because she suddenly wrecked hers and has no other vehicle. In another example, hospital might hire a hotshot transport service to send a critical piece of medical equipment across state lines within a short amount of time.

In other instances, hotshot hauling is used as an expedited transportation service, but not within a short amount of time, just with a guaranteed arrival date. In these cases, hotshot hauling can be used to transport goods and equipment across state lines or even overseas.

Hotshot Trailers and Loads

Hotshot trucking services typically transport loads using flatbed trailers operated by a medium-duty or heavy-duty towing truck. However, several other types of trailers can be used as well, but all tend to be either Class 3, Class 4, or Class 5 trailers. Some examples of hotshot trailers include lowboy trailers, gooseneck trailers, bumper pull trailers, dovetail trailers, and tilt deck trailers.

LOWBOY TRAILERS – Lowboy trailers are designed with a low center of gravity, making them the best option for heavy equipment and loads.

GOOSENECK TRAILERS – Gooseneck trailers are very stable and work well for transporting heavy loads.

DOVETAIL TRAILERS – Dovetail trailers are typically reserved for transporting vehicles and similar motorized commodities, such as construction equipment.

TILT DECK TRAILERS – Also called step deck trailers, tilt deck trailers tilt on an angle, allowing easier loading and unloading.

BUMPER PULL TRAILERS – Compared to the above-mentioned trailers, bumper pull trailers are typically cheaper, shorter, and easier to use.

Are you looking for prompt and professional heavy equipment transportation or towing services in Indiana? Contact Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for long distance towing and heavy equipment transportation services in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties. We transport all throughout Indiana and across state lines.

Top Factors to Consider Before Using a Tow Dolly

Posted on November 18, 2021 by Zores

Tow dollies may have an innocent-enough moniker, but do not make the mistake of underestimating their level of complexity. Although using a tow dolly is an efficient and convenient method of towing another motorized vehicle, they may come with a few possible drawbacks or limitations. In some cases, they are not always a compatible option for all load types. These factors are just the start of the important considerations you need to keep in mind before moving forward with a tow dolly haul.

Continue below to learn what you need to know before buying and using a tow dolly, plus your best option for long-distance towing in Central Indiana.

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Common Tow Dolly Problems

There are many possible drawbacks and limitations when it comes to tow dollies. But the most common tow dolly problems involve backing up, RV’s, hanging parts, routine maintenance, and warranty coverage. These are factors that should be considered before deciding to use a tow dolly for your long-distance car tow.

Going in Reverse

When you are using a tow dolly to haul another vehicle, you will not be able to back up. This is one of the most common complaints with tow dollies. Going in reverse with a tow dolly attached can cause serious damage to both the dolly and the towing vehicle. If you need to back up, you must first park, unhook the towed vehicle, unhook the dolly, and move both out of the way. Then you have to reconnect everything to continue on your journey.

Undercarriage Parts

Before setting off on your long-distance road trip with your tow dolly set up behind you, you’ll want to check if there are any hanging parts underneath the vehicle in tow. Things like spoilers, air dams, and ground effects can come into contact with the road surface and become severely damaged.

Recreational Vehicles (RV’s)

Recreational vehicles (RVs) are known to have problems with tow dollies. Most often, drivers complain that the tow dolly setup is too vulnerable to road damages like potholes and bumps. Driving an RV with a tow dolly in these road conditions can cause the tow dolly to jump out of alignment, which poses several other towing and road hazards.

Maintenance and Storage

It is not a very well-known fact that tow dollies require a good amount of upkeep and routine maintenance. So, before committing to using one for your upcoming haul, be sure you understand the maintenance required to keep your investment in good condition for as long as possible. After all, tow dollies are not cheap pieces of towing equipment. You will also need to consider a storage and transportation plan, as they are very heavy and take up a lot of space.

Vehicle Warranties

Some vehicle warranties are voided if certain towing methods are used, such as using a tow dolly. Dollies can also add a significant amount of weight to your trailer, which can change capacity ratings. This too may affect warranty coverage. Always check with your warranty terms before using a tow dolly to haul a vehicle.

Are you looking for a professional company to tow your vehicle a long distance? Contact Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for long distance towing and heavy equipment transport in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties. We serve all of Central Indiana and tow across state borders.

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What You Need to Know About Hauling Oversized Loads

Posted on October 28, 2021 by Zores

What is an oversized load? Well, if you are preparing to haul anything that is very heavy and very large, this is a question you need to learn the answer to right away. Continue reading to learn what you need to know about hauling oversized loads, including the local and state laws, permits, rated trailers, standard trucking regulations, and more.

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Regulations for Oversized and Overweight Loads

An oversized load is any cargo or freight of exceedingly large size and/or weight, therefore posing potential dangers and safety hazards during transportation. More specifically, local and state regulations define an oversized load as any cargo that exceeds the maximum legal width, height, and length of a freight. Such maximum freight dimensions vary from state to state, and even among local jurisdictions. It is important to check with your local county and state towing regulations to ensure that you are properly equipped to haul in oversized load from one destination to another.

Common examples of oversized and overweight loads include air crafts, shipping containers, construction equipment, farming equipment, mobile homes, oil rigs, heavy machinery, motor coaches, semi-trucks, and commodities of similar size and weight.

Factors to Consider When Towing Oversized Cargoes

If you are preparing to haul in oversized load, whether locally or across state lines, it is critical to consider various factors that can impact both the safety and practicality of your transport. In fact, here are the top factors to consider when towing oversized cargoes:

► Legal Load Dimensions – Although it can vary from state to state, and even among local jurisdictions, the generally accepted maximum legal load dimensions are 8 ½ feet wide and 8 ½ feet high. Any freight that is taller or wider than this is considered an oversized load in most municipalities.

► Oversized Load Permits – Most oversized loads require specialized permits and permissions, either from the state or the local municipality.

► Super Oversized Loads – Any loads that exceed 12 feet high and 12 feet wide typically require special permits, as well as an on-road escort or pilot car.

► Permitted Travel Times – Some states and local jurisdictions do not allow oversized load travel during certain times of the year, such as holidays and weekends, or even certain hours of the day. It is important to check with your local county and state towing regulations to ensure that you are permitted to haul your heavy freight at the time you wish to do so.

► Travel Logistics – Not only should you check that you are permitted to travel during the time you plan to, but it is also important to plan out your travel route ahead of time. With an oversized load, there are certain bridges and road passages that you will not be able to access. Planning ahead of time can help you work out the logistics of your route and ensure a streamlined journey.

Are you looking for a long distance heavy hauler for your oversized load in Indiana? Contact Zore’s Towing for heavy duty towing and machinery transportation services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide long distance towing services across state lines as well.

How to Do a Pre-Trip Check Before Pulling a Trailer

Posted on April 7, 2021 by Zores

It does not matter large or small your trailer is, nor how much experience you might have pulling one; everyone should perform a solid towing safety inspection before hitting the road for a long-distance trip. Continue below to either learn or refresh your memory on how to do a pre-trip check before pulling a trailer long distance.

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Pre-Trip Trailer Towing Inspection

Everything needs to be inspected for optimal safety and performance when preparing to pull a trailer. Even for short-distance towing, inspecting your towing and vehicle setup is vital for both the safety of you and your passengers, as well as your cargo. All towing and trailer equipment needs to be checked and if necessary, serviced or replaced, including hitch and receiver, safety chains, electrical setups, hitch and turn signals, lights, and the overall trailer clearance.

In addition to checking all equipment, it is wise to review your state’s trailer towing requirements or regulations, and in all states that you plan to pass through as well. Some states require you to stay in the far right lanes, or drive at a certain speed, when towing a trailer. You do not want to be in violation of any towing rules, as this could slow you down from getting to your destination, plus make you pay a fine!

For Beginners

If you have never pulled at trailer before, it is vital that you practice. It takes a lot longer to come to a complete stop when towing a trailer, plus taking turns, backing up, parking, and maneuvering through traffic is all different than driving a regular car. Furthermore, you need to educate yourself on all proper trailer setup and maintenance practices in order to remain safe and within local and state regulations.

Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist:

Check that the trailer is properly attached to the hitch, and perfectly secure. The trailer’s tongue should be connected to the hitch, and all locking mechanisms are secured.

You should not be able to lift the trailer off the hitch after it has been snapped and locked in place. Your safety chains should be criss-crossed between the towing vehicle and the trailer.

Check that all electrical wires are connected, and that the brake lights and turn signals are working in conjunction with one another. It helps to have a partner work the towing vehicle’s brakes and turn signals while you stand behind the trailer and watch for them to come on. No partner? Use the reflection of windows or windshields instead.

Do you need some help with towing some cargo long-distance? Contact Zore’s Towing for professional long-distance towing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve all of Central Indiana, including Lebanon, Greenwood, and Avon areas.

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Why You Can Never Ignore Vehicular Towing Capacity

Posted on February 26, 2021 by Zores

Whether you are planning to hook up a camper to your truck, tow a personal watercraft to the lake, or dinghy tow another car across the state, the most important factor to review first is the tow capacity of the vehicle you plan on doing the towing. Continue below to learn more about car and truck towing capacities, including why they are so important and how to calculate yours.

The Basic Rules of Towing Capacity

Towing capacity is the weight limit your towing vehicle can pull. These capacities vary from vehicle to vehicle, depending on make, model, year, features, and more. Towing capacity is formulated by comprehending five principal components of a towing vehicle. These include the transmission, brakes, axles, motor, and edge. Additionally, incorporating the towing vehicle’s weight, trailer weight, cargo weight, and the total combined weight of its occupants will provide a general understanding of how much weight your towing vehicle will have to pull.

From there, you must then check with the vehicle’s owners’ manual to see how much weight your make and model vehicle can tow, and compare that with the total combined weight you need to tow. If the total combined weight exceeds the recommended towing capacity, you cannot safely tow with that vehicle. You must either reduce the weight of the cargo and vessel, or get a towing vehicle with a higher towing capacity.

The Purpose of a Tow Capacity Rating

There is a reason why towing capacity exists. There are several consequences to ignoring a vehicle’s towing limit. This includes safety hazards, mechanical damages, and more. The most dangerous, and common, consequence to exceeding a vehicle’s towing capacity is losing the ability to brake. You never want this to happen to you, especially when accompanied by other passengers or carrying flammable cargoes.

When the towing limit is met or exceeded, they can easily achieve regular speeds on the road, but when it comes time to stop, problems arise. The vehicle is basically too heavy to come to a stop at the regular amount of time you expect. It takes much longer, especially at higher speeds, to come to a complete stop. In some cases, the load is so heavy, the vehicle cannot stop at all, or in time, to avoid a dangerous or fatal collision.

In less extreme cases, surpassing the towing limit can prohibit a vehicle from driving uphill, even at the slightest incline. Since the load is too heavy, the vehicle already has trouble getting up to speed, so when it comes time to drive up an incline, it could simply give out or burn rubber right in its place. Not only does this bring the towing task to a fast halt, but it can also cause major damage to the towing vehicle and tires.

Do you need tow truck assistance or long-distance towing services in Indianapolis, Indiana? Contact Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 to request free estimates for Central Indiana towing and recovery!

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Recommended Tow Hitch Fittings You’ll Need for Long Distance Hauls

Posted on August 12, 2020 by Zores

There are several hitch accessories that are recommended for drivers to use when towing a trailer longer distances. Although there are several hitch accessories you don’t necessarily need for shorter hauls, long distance towing is a more serious undertaking, especially when using highways and interstates at high speeds. Continue reading to learn a little about some of the most popular and recommended tow hitch accessories, and who to contact for additional towing advice and information you can trust.

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What You Should Have for Trailer Towing

➾ Ball Mounts

The hitch receiver and ball mounts are entirely separate assemblies. A ball mount should slide into a hitch receiver and be secured with a locking pin. Always be sure to use a ball mount that matches your hitch class. This is the amount of weight your truck can pull, of course. Class I hitch pulls up to 2,000 pounds, Class II hitches pull up to 3,500 pounds, Class III’s pull up to 5,000 pounds, and so forth. You can find class V hitches that can pull more than ten thousand pounds!

➾ Hitch Balls

Hitch ball shanks fit through a hole in a ball mount, and secured with nuts and washers. Because these holes in ball mounts come in different sizes, it is important to check the shank diameter of your hitch balls before trying them out or purchasing them.

➾ Couplers

Although couplers are technically part of a trailer, they are an important accessory to mention because a trailer cannot be connected to a vehicle without them. They are attached at the end of the tongue, and must match the size of hitch ball diameter. They must also be able to handle that total weight of the load in haul. This is called the gross trailer weight, or GTW.

➾ Safety Chains

One of the most highly recommended accessories for any tow are safety chains. Just like couplers, safety chains are located at the tongue of the trailer, but on each side. They serve the purpose of keeping a trailer connected to a vehicle, while providing extra security and safety when towing a trailer. In fact, most states require them under law.

➾ Locks, Pins, and Clips

As mentioned before, pins are used to secure ball mounts to hitch receivers. Then a clip is placed over the head of the pin to prevent it from slipping out of place. Hitch locks are popular alternatives to pins and clips, as they do the job of both; but they also protect the ball mounts from thieves.

➾ Tube Covers

Customizable and fun to use, hitch tube covers are another popular and useful accessory for towing a trailer. When tow hitches aren’t being used, they can collect dirt, mud, and grime. This exposure can cause pre-mature corrosion and deterioration of your tow hitch. The solution for this issue is using a hitch cover! They are steel or plastic tube covers that protect your tow hitch from overexposure to natural elements and harsh weather conditions. Simply insert them into the ball mount hole when not in use. They are fun because they come in a variety of colors and patterns that you can match to your truck or your personality!

➾ Hitch-Mounted Cargo Carriers

Hitch-mounted cargo carriers are another accessory that can be useful when not towing a trailer. They are like a mini-flatbed trailer because they offer a flattened platform capable of holding up to 600 pounds of cargo weight. Cargo carriers simply connect to the hitch receiver on one side, providing the platform deck on the other! There are two types of carriers, open-style and enclosed. Talk to your local wrecker service for details and advice on which style to use for your truck or SUV.

➾ Extenders and Adapters

Extenders and adapters are used as accessories to hitch-mounted accessories, like cargo carriers. When a ball mount doesn’t fit the size of a receiver, a tow adapter might be used. And when you need to increase the clearance of a cargo carrier or other hitch-mounted device, an extender might be used for this. Extenders are important for trucks and vehicles that have something hanging over the bumper, like a tire or camper shell.

➾ Weight Distribution Systems

Weight distribution systems are great towing accessories to consider when you need to tow a large amount of weight. This means loads heavier than 3,000 pounds or so. In this case, you would of course need a Class VI or V trailer hitch. These systems come with shanks, hitch heads, and spring bars.

➾ Trailer Jacks

Trailer jacks do not actually mount to the hitch, but they make the hitching process much safer and much easier. They are mounted to the trailer, on the tongue, in close proximity to the coupler. They allow you to raise and lower the trailer from the hitch ball with a crank.

Indianapolis Roadside Assistance Towing Services You Can Count On

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour towing and roadside assistance in Indianapolis and throughout Central Indiana. Our friendly staff is waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

RV Towing Tips You Need to Know

Posted on June 19, 2017 by Zores

Summer is the most popular season for road trips. And why not? The weather is great, the roads are clear, and the list of possible outdoor activities is seemingly endless. If you are planning a road trip this summer with your beloved recreational vehicle, it is important to review some helpful tips for safe RV towing. Whether you are pulling your camper with your vehicle, or pulling a vehicle with your RV, having the proper knowledge will make the process easier for you. Continue reading to catch up on some important information about safe RV and camper towing.

Indianapolis Towing 317-247-8484

Safe RV and Camper Towing

The first aspect to address is proper securing. If an RV is not properly secure to the towing vehicle, the outcome could be extremely dangerous, and potentially fatal. Start by ensuring that all of the cargo inside the camper are properly secured so that they will not move around while on the road.

Weight is another important aspect to address. Not only do you need to ensure that the cargo in your RV does not exceed the towing weight capacity, you must also ensure that the cargo weight is evenly distributed throughout the RV. This improves safety, security, and fuel efficiency.

The owners’ manuals for both your towing vehicle and your RV should always play an important part of your preparing for a trip. You must follow the weight restrictions and capacities of both vehicles in order to ensure proper transportation. If you have misplaced an owners’ manual, you can contact the manufacturer and request a new one, or you can simply download a free manual online.

One of the most critical parts to towing an RV is having the proper gear, and making sure that all your gear is in good condition. This includes matching the proper hitch, hitch receiver, ball hitch, coupler, electrical hookups, safety chains, and more. Always check your lights to ensure they are in sync with your towing vehicle’s brakes.

Long Distance Towing

If you own a large recreational vehicle that you need transported over a long distance, and you cannot transport it yourself, contact a trusted Indianapolis towing company for safe, long-distance tow truck services. Many tow truck companies offer long distance and heavy equipment transport. They can transport and deliver your vehicle wherever you like!

Indianapolis Towing Services

Zore’s Towing Indianapolis 317-247-8484

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for affordable towing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We will transport your heavy equipment anywhere in the United States at the most competitive price. We haul anything, from semi’s and buses, to duplex homes, mobile homes, cranes, construction equipment, farming equipment, vehicles, and more. Call 317-247-8484 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis towing services, today.