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How does a tow truck work? |
by Kate Simmons >> more about the author
Why would a vehicle need a ride?! Perhaps the car or truck has a part that has stopped working, making driving impossible. Some cars are towed when they’re parked in areas where parking is forbidden. Tow trucks also give a lift to vehicles that have been involved in an accident and need repair!
Now it’s time to create your own tow truck! Start with a toy car or truck. Can you fasten a pipe cleaner or piece of string to the back of the vehicle, then attach it to another “broken down” car? Is there a certain part on the car to be towed that makes a good connection point? If you have blocks, perhaps you could build a flatbed tow truck and place another toy car in the back. Viewing picture of tow trucks before building adds pizazz to this fun activity!
Sometimes we all need a helping hand! Did you know that even your car needs help from time to time? There are many people, tools, and machines that work together to repair your car when it needs assistance.
One of these machines is called a tow truck. Just like a taxi transports people from one place to another, a tow truck transports vehicles (cars, trucks, motorcycles, etc.) that need a ride. Tow trucks work by pulling other vehicles. For example, a hook and chain tow truck uses a chain to hook to a part of the vehicle in need of a tow, such as the axle. Rather than a chain, some tow trucks use an arm or a bar called a yoke to link to the other vehicle.
Flatbed tow trucks have a flat surface (called a bed) that can be slanted to the angle of a ramp. The damaged vehicle can be driven or dragged onto the bed, which is then returned to a level position so the vehicle can enjoy a flat ride to its new location! Hopefully it’s a smooth one!
Why would a vehicle need a ride?! Perhaps the car or truck has a part that has stopped working, making driving impossible. Some cars are towed when they’re parked in areas where parking is forbidden. Tow trucks also give a lift to vehicles that have been involved in an accident and need repair!
Now it’s time to create your own tow truck! Start with a toy car or truck. Can you fasten a pipe cleaner or piece of string to the back of the vehicle, then attach it to another “broken down” car? Is there a certain part on the car to be towed that makes a good connection point? If you have blocks, perhaps you could build a flatbed tow truck and place another toy car in the back. Viewing picture of tow trucks before building adds pizazz to this fun activity!
