Introduction
Tow trucks are essential for vehicle recovery, but not all tow trucks are the same. One of the oldest and most recognizable types is the hook and chain tow truck—a rugged workhorse once widely used for towing disabled or wrecked vehicles.
But with the rise of more advanced tow truck technology, are hook and chain tow trucks still relevant today? When should they be used, and what are their advantages and disadvantages?
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into how hook and chain tow trucks work, their pros and cons, when they are still used, and how they compare to modern towing alternatives. By the end, you’ll have a solid understanding of whether this classic towing method is the right choice for certain situations.
What Is a Hook and Chain Tow Truck?
A hook and chain tow truck is a type of tow truck that uses a heavy-duty hook and chain system to lift and tow vehicles. The hook is attached to the car’s axle or frame, and the chain secures it in place while the back wheels remain on the ground.
These trucks were once the standard in the towing industry, but newer towing methods have largely replaced them due to concerns about potential damage to vehicles. However, they are still used in certain situations where other tow trucks may not be as effective.
How It Works
- The tow truck operator hooks a chain around the car’s axle or frame.
- A hydraulic system lifts the front or rear of the vehicle.
- The vehicle is dragged with two wheels on the road while the tow truck moves it to its destination.
This towing method is simple and effective, but it has some downsides—especially when dealing with modern vehicles.
Advantages of Hook and Chain Tow Trucks
Even though they are not as commonly used today, hook and chain tow trucks still have several benefits:
✅ 1. Strong and Durable
These trucks are built for heavy-duty towing, making them ideal for transporting damaged or non-operable vehicles.
✅ 2. Effective for Wrecked Vehicles
If a car has been severely damaged in an accident, scratching or further damaging the exterior is less of a concern, making this type of tow truck a viable option.
✅ 3. Great for Junk or Scrap Cars
When a car is going to the junkyard, minor damage from towing doesn’t matter. Hook and chain trucks are still widely used for towing scrap cars.
✅ 4. Lower Cost for Certain Tows
Since hook and chain tow trucks have simpler mechanics, they are sometimes more affordable for short-distance tows.
Disadvantages of Hook and Chain Tow Trucks
Despite their strengths, hook and chain tow trucks have several major drawbacks that have led to their decline in popularity.
❌ 1. Can Damage the Vehicle
One of the biggest reasons hook and chain tow trucks are no longer commonly used is the risk of damage. The chains can:
- Scratch or dent the car’s body.
- Put pressure on the frame, leading to alignment issues.
- Cause stress on the drivetrain and suspension.
❌ 2. Not Suitable for AWD or 4WD Vehicles
Because two wheels stay on the ground, using a hook and chain tow truck on all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles can damage the transmission.
❌ 3. Outdated Compared to Modern Tow Trucks
Modern flatbed and wheel-lift tow trucks have largely replaced hook and chain trucks because they are safer and more versatile.
❌ 4. Limited Use Cases
Most towing companies only use hook and chain trucks for scrap or wrecked vehicles, not for routine towing.
When Are Hook and Chain Tow Trucks Still Used?
While their use has declined, hook and chain tow trucks are still useful in specific situations:
🚗 Towing scrap or junk cars – When vehicle condition doesn’t matter.
🚧 Removing wrecked vehicles – From accident scenes or off-road locations.
🛻 Heavy-duty towing – For large trucks or vehicles in poor condition.
🏗️ Industrial and construction vehicle transport – When moving machinery or abandoned equipment.
If vehicle protection is not a concern, a hook and chain tow truck can still get the job done efficiently and affordably.
Modern Alternatives to Hook and Chain Tow Trucks
With today’s technology, most towing companies prefer these safer alternatives:
1. Wheel-Lift Tow Trucks 🚛
- Uses a yoke under the front or rear wheels instead of chains.
- Reduces the risk of damage compared to hook and chain methods.
- Faster and easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
2. Flatbed Tow Trucks 🏗️
- The entire vehicle is placed on a flat platform for transport.
- Best for luxury, AWD, and electric vehicles.
- Safest option with zero risk of body damage.
3. Integrated Tow Trucks 🏎️
- Designed for heavy-duty towing (large trucks, buses, and construction vehicles).
- More stable and secure for oversized loads.
For everyday towing, wheel-lift and flatbed tow trucks are the preferred choices due to their safety and versatility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are hook and chain tow trucks still used today?
Yes, but primarily for scrap cars, wrecked vehicles, and heavy-duty towing.
2. Can hook and chain tow trucks tow modern cars?
Not recommended. They can damage bumpers, suspension, and the drivetrain.
3. What is the best alternative to hook and chain towing?
Flatbed tow trucks are the safest and most reliable option.
4. How much does it cost to use a hook and chain tow truck?
Pricing varies, but they are generally cheaper than flatbed towing, especially for scrap cars.
5. Are hook and chain tow trucks illegal?
No, but they are restricted in many areas due to vehicle damage risks.
Final Thoughts: Is Hook and Chain Towing Still Relevant?
While hook and chain tow trucks were once the industry standard, they have mostly been replaced by safer, more modern alternatives. However, they still serve a specific purpose when towing junk cars, wrecked vehicles, or heavy-duty equipment.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Outdated for standard vehicle towing due to damage risks.
✔ Still used for scrap cars and wrecked vehicles.
✔ Flatbed and wheel-lift tow trucks are better alternatives.
✔ Cheaper than modern towing in certain cases.
If vehicle protection isn’t a concern, a hook and chain tow truck can still be a cost-effective towing option. 🚛💨