The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Used Wheel Lift for Your Pickup Truck: Smart Savings & Safe Towing
The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Used Wheel Lift for Your Pickup Truck: Smart Savings & Safe Towing Lmctruck.Guidemechanic.com
The world of towing and vehicle recovery is demanding, requiring robust equipment that can handle various situations. For many pickup truck owners, adding towing capabilities goes beyond just a trailer hitch. A wheel lift can transform your personal or commercial pickup into a versatile light-duty recovery vehicle, offering significant utility for everything from moving disabled vehicles to assisting stranded motorists.
However, new wheel lifts come with a hefty price tag, often placing them out of reach for individuals or small businesses. This is where the smart option of investing in a used wheel lift for a pickup truck comes into play. It offers a cost-effective pathway to acquiring essential towing power without breaking the bank.
The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Used Wheel Lift for Your Pickup Truck: Smart Savings & Safe Towing
This comprehensive guide is designed to walk you through every aspect of purchasing a used wheel lift. We’ll cover why it’s a smart choice, what to look for, how to assess its condition, and crucial safety and maintenance tips. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision, ensuring you get a reliable piece of equipment that serves your needs safely and efficiently.
What is a Wheel Lift and Why Consider One for Your Pickup?
Before diving into the specifics of buying used, let’s clarify what a wheel lift is. Essentially, a wheel lift is a specialized towing attachment that lifts a vehicle by its wheels, securing it for transport. Unlike traditional tow bars that drag a vehicle, or flatbed tow trucks that carry it completely, a wheel lift elevates either the front or rear axle, keeping the other set of wheels on the ground.
This method is incredibly efficient and less damaging to the towed vehicle compared to older chain-and-hook systems. For pickup trucks, integrating a wheel lift significantly expands their utility. It allows your truck to perform light-duty towing, vehicle repositioning, or even roadside assistance tasks that would otherwise require a dedicated tow truck.
The convenience of having a wheel lift on your pickup means you’re always ready to respond, whether it’s for your own fleet, a small business venture, or simply helping out friends and family. It’s a versatile tool that adds immense value and capability to your truck.
The Advantages of Opting for a Used Wheel Lift
Choosing a used wheel lift for your pickup truck isn’t just about saving money; it’s a strategic decision that offers several compelling benefits. Understanding these advantages can reinforce your confidence in exploring the pre-owned market.
Significant Cost Savings
The most obvious and primary advantage of buying used is the substantial reduction in cost. New wheel lifts can range from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars, a significant investment for any operation. A well-maintained used unit, however, can often be acquired for a fraction of the new price. This allows you to allocate your budget to other essential areas, such as truck upgrades, maintenance, or other business investments.
Immediate Availability
Unlike ordering new equipment, which can involve lead times for manufacturing and shipping, a used wheel lift is typically available for immediate purchase and installation. This means you can get your pickup truck equipped and operational much faster, allowing you to start generating revenue or fulfilling your towing needs without unnecessary delays. Time is money, and immediate availability is a clear benefit.
Proven Performance
Many used wheel lifts have a track record of performance. They’ve been operated in real-world conditions, and their strengths and weaknesses are often well-documented. Based on my experience, a unit that has been consistently used and maintained by its previous owner often indicates a robust and reliable design. You can often glean insights into its durability from its operational history.
Environmental Responsibility
Opting for a used wheel lift also contributes to environmental sustainability. By extending the lifecycle of existing equipment, you’re reducing the demand for new manufacturing, which conserves resources and lessens the carbon footprint associated with production and transportation. It’s a small step that collectively makes a difference.
Key Considerations Before You Buy: Your Due Diligence Checklist
Purchasing a used wheel lift requires careful consideration and thorough inspection. Skipping critical steps can lead to costly repairs, operational inefficiencies, or even safety hazards down the road. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to guide your decision-making process.
Compatibility with Your Pickup Truck
This is perhaps the most crucial factor. Not all wheel lifts are designed to fit all pickup trucks. You need to ensure the used wheel lift you’re considering is compatible with your specific truck’s make, model, year, and frame type.
- Frame Compatibility: Wheel lifts typically mount to the truck’s frame. Some require specific frame modifications or reinforcements. Understand how the lift attaches and if your truck’s frame can support it without extensive, costly alterations.
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): Your truck’s GVWR is its maximum permissible weight when loaded. The added weight of the wheel lift itself, plus the weight of any vehicle it will be towing, must not exceed your truck’s GVWR. Overloading is extremely dangerous and illegal.
- Hitch Class: While not directly mounting to the hitch, the overall towing capacity of your truck (often indicated by its hitch class) should align with the wheel lift’s capabilities. A heavy-duty wheel lift on a light-duty truck is a mismatch.
Towing Capacity & Lift Rating
Every wheel lift has a specified lifting and towing capacity. This rating indicates the maximum weight the lift can safely handle. It’s imperative that the used wheel lift’s capacity meets or exceeds your anticipated towing needs.
- Understand Your Needs: Are you planning to tow compact cars, SUVs, or heavier commercial vans? This will dictate the minimum capacity you require.
- Don’t Skimp: Always choose a wheel lift with a capacity comfortably above your expected maximum load. Pushing a lift to its absolute limit repeatedly will accelerate wear and tear and compromise safety. Pro tips from us: Always factor in a safety margin.
Type of Wheel Lift
Wheel lifts come in various designs, each with its own operational characteristics. Understanding these types will help you choose one that aligns with your operational preferences and budget.
- Hydraulic vs. Electric: Hydraulic lifts are generally more powerful and faster, relying on a hydraulic pump and fluid. Electric lifts are simpler, often slower, but require less maintenance and no hydraulic fluid.
- Self-Loading vs. Manual: Self-loading (or automatic) wheel lifts feature arms that automatically adjust and secure the towed vehicle’s wheels, making hookup faster and easier. Manual lifts require more physical effort to position and secure the arms.
- Under-reach vs. Integrated: Most pickup truck wheel lifts are under-reach, meaning they extend from beneath the truck’s rear. Some heavier-duty units are integrated into a larger body. For pickups, under-reach is the common and practical choice.
Condition Assessment: A Thorough Inspection
This is where your detective skills come into play. A used wheel lift can hide numerous issues beneath a layer of paint. A meticulous inspection is non-negotiable.
- Visual Inspection: Look for obvious signs of damage, neglect, or abuse. Are there deep scratches, dents, or signs of impact?
- Rust and Corrosion: Pay close attention to rust, especially on structural components, pivot points, and within hydraulic lines. Surface rust is often manageable, but deep, pitting rust can compromise structural integrity.
- Welds: Examine all welds for cracks, poor quality, or signs of previous repair. Faulty welds are a major safety concern.
- Hydraulic System (if applicable): Check for leaks around cylinders, hoses, and fittings. Inspect hoses for cracks, bulges, or chafing. The hydraulic fluid should be clear, not milky or dark.
- Electrical System (if applicable): Examine wiring for fraying, exposed conductors, or makeshift repairs. Test all controls and lights.
- Wear Parts: Inspect pins, bushings, pivot points, and other moving parts for excessive play or wear. These indicate heavy use and potential need for replacement.
- Structural Integrity: Check the lift arms, crossbar, and mounting plates for bends, twists, or deformation.
Age and Usage History
While age isn’t the sole indicator of condition, it provides context. A newer lift might have less wear, but a well-maintained older lift could still be a better value than a neglected newer one.
- Hours of Operation: If available, ask for records of operational hours, especially for hydraulic pumps or electric motors.
- Maintenance Records: Request maintenance logs. A seller who can provide detailed records demonstrates responsibility and transparency, giving you confidence in the unit’s history.
Brand Reputation & Parts Availability
Opting for a well-known brand like Miller Industries (Century, Challenger), NRC, or Jerr-Dan can be advantageous.
- Reliability: Reputable brands often have a history of producing durable and reliable equipment.
- Parts Availability: This is crucial. Common mistakes to avoid are buying an obscure brand where finding replacement parts for repairs or maintenance becomes a nightmare. Ensure you can easily source hydraulic cylinders, hoses, electrical components, or wear parts.
Legal & Regulatory Compliance
Towing regulations vary by state and local jurisdiction. Ensure the wheel lift, once installed, will allow your truck to remain compliant.
- DOT Regulations: If you plan to use the wheel lift commercially, you must understand Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations regarding vehicle length, weight, lighting, and safety equipment.
- Lighting: The wheel lift must not obstruct your truck’s taillights, brake lights, or turn signals. If it does, auxiliary lighting will be required.
- License and Permits: Depending on your usage, you might need specific commercial driver’s licenses or permits.
Types of Wheel Lifts Suitable for Pickup Trucks
Understanding the different mechanisms available will help you choose the best fit for your operational style and budget when looking for a used wheel lift for pickup truck.
Hydraulic Wheel Lifts
Hydraulic wheel lifts are the workhorses of the towing industry. They utilize a hydraulic pump, fluid, and cylinders to generate powerful lifting and extension forces.
- Pros: Generally faster, more powerful, and capable of handling heavier loads with ease. The smooth operation is excellent for precise positioning.
- Cons: Require more maintenance (checking fluid levels, inspecting hoses for leaks), and can be more complex to troubleshoot. A hydraulic fluid leak can be messy and expensive to fix.
- Best For: Operators needing robust performance, speed, and frequent heavy lifting.
Electric Wheel Lifts
Electric wheel lifts rely on electric motors, often paired with a screw drive or winch system, to raise and lower the lift arms.
- Pros: Simpler design, generally less maintenance (no hydraulic fluid to check), quieter operation, and often lighter in weight. Installation can sometimes be less complex as well.
- Cons: Typically slower in operation compared to hydraulic units and may have lower lifting capacities. They are also dependent on your truck’s electrical system, requiring a robust battery and charging system.
- Best For: Lighter-duty applications, occasional use, and those who prefer minimal maintenance and simplicity.
Self-Loading Wheel Lifts
Self-loading wheel lifts, also known as automatic wheel lifts, feature arms that can automatically pivot, extend, and secure the tires of the towed vehicle with minimal manual intervention.
- Pros: Significantly speeds up the hook-up process, reducing operator fatigue and increasing efficiency. This is a huge advantage in high-volume towing scenarios.
- Cons: More complex mechanically, potentially leading to more points of failure or higher repair costs if issues arise with the automatic mechanisms. They are also generally more expensive, even used.
- Best For: Professional tow operators or businesses where speed and efficiency of hook-up are paramount.
Manual Wheel Lifts
While less common for dedicated towing operations today, some basic, older used wheel lifts might be entirely manual. These require the operator to physically crank or winch the arms into position and secure the vehicle.
- Pros: Very simple, extremely durable (fewer moving parts), and the most budget-friendly option.
- Cons: Labor-intensive, slow, and suitable only for very light-duty or occasional use where time is not a critical factor.
- Best For: Extremely limited budgets, very infrequent use, or specific niche applications where simplicity outweighs speed.
Inspecting a Used Wheel Lift: A Hands-On Approach (E-E-A-T)
When you’ve found a promising used wheel lift for pickup truck, it’s time for the crucial physical inspection. Based on my experience in the field, a thorough, hands-on examination is the single most important step to avoid buying a lemon.
Structural Integrity: The Foundation of Safety
Begin by scrutinizing the entire frame of the wheel lift. Look for any signs of structural fatigue or damage.
- Cracks and Bends: Pay close attention to high-stress areas like pivot points, mounting plates, and the main boom. Hairline cracks can quickly propagate under load. Any bends or twists indicate severe overloading or impact damage.
- Rust Penetration: While surface rust is common on used equipment, deep, pitting rust that has eaten into the metal can severely weaken the structure. Probe rusted areas with a screwdriver to check for softness.
- Welds: Carefully inspect every weld. Look for cracks, porosity (small holes), or signs of previous, poor-quality repairs. Faulty welds are a major safety hazard.
Hydraulic System: The Lifeblood (if applicable)
If it’s a hydraulic unit, this system requires meticulous attention.
- Leaks: Check all hydraulic cylinders, hoses, and fittings for any signs of fluid leaks. Even minor weeping can indicate a failing seal that will worsen over time.
- Hose Condition: Inspect hoses for cracks, abrasions, bulges, or stiff spots. Old, brittle hoses are prone to bursting.
- Cylinder Rods: The chrome rods of the hydraulic cylinders should be smooth and free of pitting, rust, or deep scratches. Damage here can quickly destroy internal seals.
- Hydraulic Fluid: Ask to see the fluid reservoir. The fluid should be clean and clear, not milky (indicating water contamination) or dark and sludgy (indicating old, degraded fluid).
- Pump Operation: Listen to the hydraulic pump. It should operate smoothly without excessive noise, grinding, or whining.
Electrical System: Power and Control (if applicable)
For both hydraulic and electric units, the electrical system is critical.
- Wiring: Inspect all wiring for fraying, exposed conductors, makeshift splices, or corrosion. Ensure connections are tight and secure.
- Controls: Test every button, switch, and lever on the control panel. Do they respond crisply and reliably? Are there any intermittent issues?
- Lights: If the wheel lift includes integrated lighting (e.g., marker lights, brake lights), ensure they all function correctly.
- Battery Condition: For electric units, the condition of the integrated battery (if any) is important. For hydraulic units, the pump motor relies on your truck’s electrical system, so ensure the wiring is adequate.
Wear Parts: The Moving Components
Any part that moves or bears load is subject to wear.
- Pins and Bushings: Check all pivot points where pins connect components. Excessive play (wobble) indicates worn pins or bushings, which will lead to sloppy operation and accelerated wear on other parts.
- Rollers and Slides: If the lift has extending arms, check the rollers or slide pads for wear. They should allow smooth extension and retraction.
- Tire Grabs/L-Arms: Inspect the components that physically secure the towed vehicle’s tires. They should be robust, free of significant damage, and operate smoothly.
Testing the Unit: The Ultimate Test
If possible, insist on seeing the wheel lift in full operation.
- Full Cycle: Have the seller extend, retract, raise, and lower the lift through its entire range of motion multiple times. Watch for smooth operation, listen for unusual noises, and recheck for leaks.
- Under Load (if feasible): If there’s an opportunity to test it with a light load (e.g., another vehicle), this provides the best assessment of its true capabilities and any issues under stress.
- Pro Tip from us: Never skip the operational test. It reveals more than any visual inspection ever could.
Common Mistakes to Avoid Are:
- Ignoring Minor Leaks: A "small drip" can quickly become a major problem.
- Not Testing All Functions: Ensure every switch and movement works.
- Buying Sight Unseen: Pictures can hide a multitude of sins. Always inspect in person.
- Assuming Compatibility: Verify fitment with your specific truck model before making an offer.
Installation and Integration with Your Pickup Truck
Once you’ve secured a used wheel lift, the next critical step is proper installation. This is not a task to be taken lightly, as incorrect installation can lead to catastrophic failure, damage to your truck, or severe accidents.
Professional Installation Recommended
While some mechanically inclined individuals might consider a DIY approach, we strongly recommend professional installation. A qualified mechanic or a specialized tow truck body shop has the expertise, tools, and experience to ensure the wheel lift is mounted securely and functions correctly. They understand the intricacies of frame reinforcement, weight distribution, and electrical/hydraulic connections.
Mounting Points and Frame Reinforcement
Wheel lifts exert immense forces on a truck’s frame. Proper mounting is paramount. This often involves drilling into the truck’s frame rails and bolting the lift securely.
- Precision: Accurate measurements are vital to ensure the lift is centered and level.
- Reinforcement: Many pickup trucks, especially those not factory-equipped for heavy towing, will require frame reinforcement to safely handle the stress of a wheel lift. This might involve adding fish plates or cross-members.
Electrical and Hydraulic Connections
Integrating the wheel lift’s systems with your truck requires expertise.
- Electrical: The lift’s electrical components (motor, lights, controls) need to be wired correctly to your truck’s battery and electrical system, often requiring dedicated circuits and fuses. Improper wiring can lead to electrical fires or system failures.
- Hydraulic (if applicable): Hydraulic pumps need a power source, and the lines must be routed safely, away from hot exhaust components or moving parts, and securely fastened to prevent chafing or damage.
Weight Distribution and Axle Loading
Adding a significant piece of equipment like a wheel lift, plus the weight of a towed vehicle, drastically alters your truck’s weight distribution.
- Balance: Proper installation helps maintain a safe balance, preventing excessive load on the rear axle, which can compromise steering and braking.
- GVWR Compliance: Even with proper installation, you must always adhere to your truck’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). Overloading your truck is dangerous and illegal.
Maintenance Tips for Your Used Wheel Lift
Just like any piece of heavy machinery, a used wheel lift for your pickup truck requires ongoing maintenance to ensure its longevity, reliability, and safe operation. Neglecting maintenance is a common mistake that leads to premature failure.
Regular Inspections
Make it a habit to perform a quick visual inspection before and after each use, and a more thorough inspection periodically.
- Check for Leaks: Especially with hydraulic units, look for any signs of fluid leaks around cylinders, hoses, and fittings.
- Inspect Welds and Fasteners: Ensure all bolts are tight and welds show no signs of cracking.
- Look for Damage: Check for any new dents, bends, or signs of impact.
Lubrication
Moving parts need lubrication to reduce friction and wear.
- Grease Points: Identify all grease zerks (fittings) on pivot points, pins, and bushings. Use a grease gun to apply appropriate grease regularly, as specified by the manufacturer (or a general-purpose heavy-duty grease if no specific guidance is available).
- Sliding Surfaces: For extending arms, keep sliding surfaces clean and lightly lubricated with a dry lubricant or specific slide grease to ensure smooth operation.
Hydraulic Fluid Checks (if applicable)
The hydraulic fluid is the lifeblood of a hydraulic wheel lift.
- Fluid Level: Check the fluid level in the reservoir regularly, typically when the lift is fully retracted and cold. Maintain the level within the manufacturer’s recommended range.
- Fluid Condition: Observe the fluid’s color and clarity. It should be clean and clear. If it appears milky (water contamination) or dark and sludgy (degraded fluid), it’s time for a fluid change and system inspection.
- Filter Replacement: Hydraulic systems often have filters. Consult the manufacturer’s manual for recommended replacement intervals.
Electrical System Checks (if applicable)
Maintain the electrical components to prevent failures.
- Wiring Integrity: Periodically inspect all wiring for chafing, corrosion, or loose connections.
- Battery and Charging System: Ensure your truck’s battery and charging system are in good condition, especially for electric lifts or hydraulic units with electric pumps.
- Controls: Clean control panels and switches, ensuring they are free of dirt and debris that could impede operation.
Cleaning
Keeping your wheel lift clean helps prevent corrosion and allows for easier inspection.
- Wash Down: After operating in dirty or salty conditions, wash down the lift to remove corrosive elements.
- Rust Prevention: Touch up any areas where paint has chipped to prevent rust from taking hold.
Safety First: Operating Your Wheel Lift Responsibly
Safety is paramount when operating a wheel lift, especially a used one. Understanding and adhering to safety protocols protects you, your equipment, the towed vehicle, and others on the road.
Comprehensive Training
Never operate a wheel lift without proper training. Understand all its functions, limitations, and emergency procedures. Many manufacturers offer operational guides, and experienced tow operators can provide invaluable hands-on instruction.
Adhere to Weight Limits
Strictly observe both the wheel lift’s rated capacity and your pickup truck’s GVWR and GAWR. Overloading is a common mistake and extremely dangerous. It can lead to equipment failure, loss of control, and severe accidents.
Pre-Operation Checks
Before every towing job, perform a quick safety check:
- Fluid Levels: Check hydraulic fluid, if applicable.
- Tires: Ensure your truck’s tires are properly inflated.
- Lights: Verify all lights (truck and lift) are working.
- Pins and Fasteners: Confirm all pins are secured and mounting bolts are tight.
Secure Loading Procedures
Properly securing the towed vehicle is critical.
- Centering: Always center the towed vehicle on the wheel lift arms to ensure even weight distribution.
- Strapping: Use high-quality, undamaged straps and secure them tightly around the towed vehicle’s tires, following manufacturer guidelines. Double-check all straps before departure.
- Clearance: Ensure adequate ground clearance for the towed vehicle’s remaining wheels and undercarriage.
Road Safety
Once hooked up, your driving dynamics will change.
- Reduced Speed: Drive slower than usual, especially around corners and on uneven terrain.
- Increased Braking Distance: Your stopping distance will be significantly longer. Maintain extra following distance.
- Awareness: Be extra vigilant for road hazards, low clearances, and other traffic.
- Auxiliary Lighting: Ensure the towed vehicle has proper lighting (tail lights, brake lights, turn signals) if its own lights are obscured or inoperable.
Where to Find a Reliable Used Wheel Lift for Your Pickup Truck
Finding the right used wheel lift for your pickup truck requires knowing where to look. While the internet has opened up many avenues, some sources offer more reliability than others.
Specialized Towing Equipment Dealerships
These dealerships often have a dedicated used equipment section.
- Pros: They usually inspect, service, and potentially refurbish used equipment. You might get a warranty or guarantee, and they can often assist with installation and financing. Their staff are knowledgeable about compatibility and regulations.
- Cons: Prices will generally be higher than private sales.
Online Marketplaces
Platforms like eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and dedicated heavy equipment marketplaces are popular.
- Pros: Wide selection, competitive pricing, and the ability to find units locally or from distant sellers. You can often communicate directly with sellers.
- Cons: "Buyer beware" is paramount. You’re often buying directly from individuals, with no guarantees or inspections. Scams are possible, and condition can vary wildly. Always insist on an in-person inspection.
Auction Houses
Industrial and heavy equipment auctions, both live and online, can be a source.
- Pros: Potential for significant savings if you know what you’re looking for. A wide range of equipment often comes through auctions.
- Cons: "As-is, where-is" sales are common, meaning no warranties or guarantees. Inspection time is often limited, and you need to be quick to assess condition. Hidden problems can be costly.
Direct from Towing Companies
Sometimes, tow truck companies upgrade their fleet and sell off their older, still-functional equipment.
- Pros: You might get a unit that has been professionally maintained by its previous owner. They can often provide maintenance records and insights into the unit’s history.
- Cons: Availability is sporadic, and you might need to network within the industry to find these opportunities.
The Investment: Understanding Pricing and Value
When considering a used wheel lift for pickup truck, understanding the factors that influence pricing and how to assess its true value is crucial for making a smart investment.
Factors Influencing Price
Several elements contribute to the final price tag of a used wheel lift:
- Age and Condition: Newer units in excellent condition will command higher prices. Heavily used or cosmetically rough units will be cheaper.
- Brand and Model: Reputable brands with a strong track record often hold their value better. Specific models known for durability or advanced features might also fetch more.
- Capacity and Features: Higher lifting and towing capacities, along with features like self-loading arms or wireless remotes, will increase the price.
- Type of Lift: Hydraulic lifts typically cost more than electric ones, and self-loading units are more expensive than manual ones.
- Geographic Location: Prices can vary based on regional demand and supply.
- Seller Type: Dealerships generally charge more than private sellers, but often offer added value like inspections, minor repairs, or support.
What’s a Fair Deal?
Defining a "fair deal" involves balancing price with the unit’s condition and your specific needs.
- Research: Look at comparable listings online to get an average price range for similar models in similar conditions.
- Depreciation: Like vehicles, wheel lifts depreciate. Expect a significant drop from new price, but the rate of depreciation slows down over time.
- Hidden Costs: Factor in potential repair costs (if the inspection reveals minor issues), transportation, and professional installation. A cheap lift that needs extensive repairs might end up costing more than a slightly more expensive one in better condition.
Negotiation Tips
Don’t be afraid to negotiate, especially with private sellers.
- Be Prepared: Have your inspection notes ready. Point out any flaws or potential repair needs to justify a lower offer.
- Know Your Limit: Decide on your maximum price before you start negotiating.
- Walk Away: Be prepared to walk away if the seller isn’t reasonable or if the deal doesn’t feel right. There will always be other options.
- Cash in Hand: Offering cash can sometimes give you leverage for a better price.
Conclusion: Smart Buying for Enhanced Capabilities
Investing in a used wheel lift for your pickup truck is a strategic decision that can significantly expand your vehicle’s capabilities without the prohibitive cost of new equipment. By meticulously researching, thoroughly inspecting, and understanding the nuances of different types and their maintenance needs, you can secure a valuable asset that serves you reliably for years to come.
Remember, the key to a successful purchase lies in due diligence. Prioritize safety, ensure compatibility with your truck, and never compromise on a thorough inspection. A well-chosen used wheel lift isn’t just a cost-saving measure; it’s a smart investment in efficiency, versatility, and the ability to handle whatever the road throws your way. Make your decision wisely, and your pickup truck will be ready for any towing challenge.