Checklist for Preparing Detachable Commercial Towing Equipment

As the leaves begin to change and the temperatures on the road drop, fall ushers in a unique set of challenges for operators in the commercial towing and recovery industry. Weather conditions and reduced daylight hours require a special level of preparedness, ensuring your detachable towing equipment is in top-notch condition.

We at Zacklift tell our customers to begin their fall maintenance checklists with a thorough inspection of our detachable towing equipment. Look for any signs of wear and tear, rust or damage. Our hydraulic components, safety chains and attachments are sturdy and strong, but you should pay close attention to them to ensure top safety throughout the harsher seasons.

The hydraulic system is the heart of your towing equipment, so it's crucial to ensure it's in optimal working condition. Verify operating pressures are between 2,500 and 3,000 psi.  Check for any leaks and call our support team right away if you need to replace hydraulic hoses, fittings, or seals. Test the lift, extended, and tilt functions to make sure they are smooth and responsive and grease all moving parts properly to prevent any friction and wear.

Inspect the brakes and suspension components on your towing equipment. Check for signs of wear on brake pads, rotors, and suspension bushings. Ensure that the braking system is functioning correctly to provide reliable stopping power, especially when towing heavy loads in slippery fall conditions.

Your braking system must be functioning properly to provide reliable stopping power, especially when towing heavy loads in slippery conditions. Regularly inspect brakes and suspension components, checking signs or wear on brake pads, rotors, and suspension bushings. 

Tires play a pivotal role in the safety and performance of your Zacklift detachable towing equipment. As the temperature drops during the fall season, tire pressure tends to decrease. Check and adjust the tire pressure according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Inspect the tires for any signs of damage, punctures, or uneven wear, and replace them if needed.

With shorter daylight hours during the fall, proper lighting becomes even more crucial. Inspect all the lights both on your truck and Zacklift, including headlights, taillights, turn signals, running lights and emergency flashers. Replace any burnt-out bulbs and ensure that all electrical connections are secure. Consider adding reflective tape or markings to enhance visibility.

Fall weather can accelerate corrosion, so it's essential to keep your Zacklift towing equipment (as well as the rest of your vehicle) well-lubricated and protected from rust. Apply grease to pivot points, hinges, and moving parts. Consider using a rust inhibitor or coating on exposed metal surfaces to prevent rust formation.

When was the last time you checked your emergency kit? Now would be a good time to double check that your kit is stocked with essential items like first-aid supplies, warning triangles, flares, a fire extinguisher, and basic tools. Check the expiry dates on perishable items and replace them as needed.

Last but not least, ensure that your towing operators are well-trained and up-to-date on safety protocols. Conduct refresher training sessions, especially for handling towing equipment in challenging fall conditions. Emphasize the importance of situational awareness and safe towing practices.

Preparing your Zacklift detachable commercial towing equipment and vehicle for the fall season is vital to ensure safe and efficient towing operations. Regular maintenance and inspections, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety are all key factors in keeping your towing equipment in top-notch condition. Be safe out there navigating the challenges of the fall season and contact us today to find out more about our equipment line.