NYC Tow Truck Endorsement Practice Exam

How does a Wheel-Lift minimize damage to towed vehicles?

1. By lifting the entire vehicle off the ground.

2. By lifting one end by the wheels only.

3. By using additional safety straps.

4. By disconnecting the battery of the towed vehicle.

The correct answer is: By lifting one end by the wheels only.

A Wheel-Lift minimizes damage to towed vehicles primarily by lifting one end of the vehicle by the wheels only. This method allows for a more controlled towing process, as the vehicle's weight is distributed properly across its remaining wheels. By lifting just the front or rear wheels, the vehicle does not undergo excessive strain or twisting that can occur if the entire vehicle is lifted off the ground. This approach also helps in preventing damage to the vehicle's undercarriage and alignment, which can happen with other towing methods. The choice of lifting only by the wheels also facilitates the towing of vehicles with low ground clearance, as it reduces the risk of the towed vehicle scraping against the pavement or encountering obstacles during transport. This method, therefore, strikes a balance between effectively securing the vehicle for transport while also minimizing the risk of structural or cosmetic damage during the towing process.