What Is a Rollback Truck?

If you want a vehicle that can transport large items, consider investing in a rollback truck. These vehicles have flatbeds perfect for moving furniture, appliances, and other large items.

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Advantages of Using a Rollback Truck

Rollback trucks are advantageous in the following ways:

  • They are easier to load and unload than traditional trucks.
  • You can transport items too large or heavy for a regular car.
  • They can tow other vehicles.

When investing in a rollback truck, it’s essential to research and finds a reputable dealer. You can also check online classifieds for used rollback trucks for sale.

Disadvantages of Using a Rollback Truck

Before making a purchase, it’s essential to consider the following disadvantages:

  • They can be more expensive than traditional trucks.
  • They require more maintenance and care than a regular truck.

Therefore, weigh the pros and cons before deciding whether a rollback truck suits your needs.

Why Is It Called a Rollback Tow Truck?

A rollback tow truck, also known as a wrecker truck, has a hydraulic system that tilts and rolls the entire flatbed backward to load a vehicle. It can load vehicles that are too damaged to be pulled onto a flatbed using a winch. Rollback tow trucks transport vehicles involved in accidents, abandoned or impounded vehicles, and heavy equipment.

How Much Weight Can a Rollback Carry?

Rollback tow trucks have a weight rating of 5 tons, meaning they can carry up to 11,000 lbs of weight. Rollback tow trucks can carry not only cars but also motorcycles, pickups, and other types of vehicles.

The Difference Between a Wrecker and a Tow Truck

A wrecker is generally used for recovery and can sometimes tow but is not always equipped to tow. It has a crane or boom that lifts vehicles to be towed. On the other hand, a tow truck is a truck that can tow or haul a vehicle. Sometimes, a wrecker truck can also be a tow truck, but a tow truck cannot also be a wrecker truck.

What Is the Difference Between a Wrecker and a Rotator?

A wrecker uses its boom and winch to lift one end of a disabled vehicle off the ground, while a rotator uses a system of pulleys and cables to rotate the entire vehicle around its vertical axis. Rotators are generally used for larger vehicles, such as semis, buses, and RVs.

The Maximum Weight a Truck Can Carry

The legal limit for trucks varies depending on the number of axles and the trailer type. For example, a three-axle truck with a three-axle trailer can carry up to 65,000 pounds. It’s essential to check the regulations in your state before hauling a large load.

Conclusion

Rollback trucks are perfect for transporting large items. Before deciding to invest in one, consider the advantages and disadvantages. Knowing the difference between a wrecker, a tow truck, and a rotator is also essential when deciding which type of vehicle to use. Finally, ensure you know your truck’s maximum weight to avoid any legal penalties.

About the author, Laurence Perkins

Laurence Perkins is the passionate car enthusiast behind the blog My Auto Machine. With over a decade of experience in the automotive industry, Perkins has knowledge and experience with a wide range of car makes and models. His particular interests lie in performance and modification, and his blog covers these topics in-depth. In addition to his own blog, Perkins is a respected voice in the automotive community and writes for various automotive publications. His insights and opinions on cars are highly sought-after.