Towing Issues: Towing without chains, rear axles, older cars

Question
Some motor clubs are asking me to tow certain cars with straps only. I can tie down the rear, but how do I pull a car onto the bed without chain hookups?  

Answer
Most auto service clubs put  out towing manuals and bulletins for all the new cars coming out.

The manufacturers all put special attachment points on the undercarriage to transport the vehicles.  You should always use those cargo holes to pull the vehicle up onto the bed.  Once it's up, then you can set the brake, level the bed, then attach the wheel straps.

With today's new cars, it is never a good idea to use J hooks on any of the suspensions.  They are too fragile to hold the vertical weight that is put on them while pulling the car up a flatbed. The only cars that can come anywhere close to handling that kind of stress are 80's and older cars.  Their suspensions, A-frames, rear axles, are stronger, but can still be damaged.

Best rule of thumb, when possible, ALWAYS used the manufactured tie down points.

Good luck and "see you in the ditch". (Wreckmaster)

Vern