New Air Hammer Powered Hub Puller Cuts Wheel Hub Removal Time by up to 80%

PITTSBURGH, PA — [August 7, 2025] — Professional technicians now have a faster, cleaner solution for seized wheel hub removal with the release of the new Air Hammer-Powered Tommy 475 Wheel Hub Puller (PMXTOM475PRO). Designed to save time with no more control arm teardowns, this innovative puller pairs seamlessly with the AirStrike™ Bi-Directional Air Hammer (3,000 BPM) to deliver high-performance extractions in as fast as 30 seconds. The Tommy 475 is also compatible with the previously available LT855AH Bi-Directional Air Hammer.

Engineered for pros who do not have time to waste, this tool eliminates the need for hammers, torches, and risky pry bars. With a machined flat flange that mounts directly to the hub, the puller delivers straight, centered force—preventing damage to the spindle, knuckle, or CV joint. The tool’s rugged construction includes a heat-treated, forged 5/8″-18 center bolt built for real-world abuse.

The puller flange easily attaches to 3-3/4″ to 4-1/2″ bolt patterns. It is a universal solution compatible with most domestic and import ½-ton vehicles with 4–6 lug studs. Setup takes less than five minutes, and once mounted, the hub is free in less than half a minute.

“This tool is designed to solve a real-world shop problem—wasting time and risking damage every time a hub won’t budge,” said Milton Specialty Tool Group General Manager Jeff Del Rossa. “By combining the hub flange and shaft with the bi-directional air hammer, you’re pulling hubs straight off in seconds—no drama, no downtime.”

For more information on the new Tommy 475 Wheel Hub Puller, as well as other ProMAXX Tool products, please visit promaxxtool.com. Questions? Call an experienced tool specialist at 724-941-0941 and e-mail inquiries to info@promaxxtool.com.

Power in Unity: 500,000-Pound Dragline Recovery in Florida

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On July 17, 2025, a high-stakes recovery operation unfolded in Florida, when a 500,000-pound dragline slipped off its loading shelf inside an active mining facility. The sheer size and weight of the equipment meant this was not just another job—it was a potential environmental and operational disaster.

The Call That Started It All

The call first came into Dennis’s Garage in Jasper, Florida. Brice Dennis quickly realized this was not a one-rotator recovery. One of the massive crawler tracks had dropped off the edge of the loading shelf, leaving the dragline teetering dangerously. Recognizing the magnitude of the situation, Dennis reached out to longtime friend and trusted industry veteran, Kevin Goodyear of Goodyear Towing & Recovery, operating out of the western Florida Panhandle.

Together, they formulated a plan that would span hundreds of miles and pull together some of the heaviest equipment in the industry.

Assembling the Dream Team

Within hours, the site transformed into a coordination hub of recovery experts. Dennis’s Garage deployed two Century 1150 rotators, while Goodyear Towing answered the call with a Century 1075 rotator, two dedicated winch boxes, and a fully stocked rigging box. The scene continued to build as additional reinforcements arrived:

A Century 9055 from Parkway Wrecker in Tallahassee, FL
Another Century 9055 from Tri County Towing in Chiefland, FL
A Century 5130 brought in to supplement winching and anchoring
And two D8 dozers, critical for repositioning and stabilization

With a total of 36 lines rigged to the dragline’s structure and tracks, the operation resembled a spider web of tensioned steel—each line precisely placed and calculated to distribute the immense weight.

18 Hours of Precision and Grit

Under the weight of pressure—literally and figuratively—this elite team of towers, operators, and dozer drivers spent 18 continuous hours executing the recovery. Day turned into night, and the scene lit up under work lights, revealing the tension, coordination, and power in play.

Each recovery unit was choreographed like a symphony—line pulls, coordinated lifts, tension releases, and slight track nudges were all timed to precision. And in the end, it worked.

The dragline was successfully recovered without structural damage, and—most critically—an environmental disaster was avoided.

A Testament to the Industry

This operation stands as a shining example of what can be accomplished when true professionals unite under a shared mission. Rival companies became allies. State lines disappeared. Ego took a backseat to teamwork.

In an era where cooperation sometimes feels rare, this recovery reminds us all of what the towing and recovery industry represents: grit, skill, and unity under pressure.

They weren’t just lifting steel. They were lifting the entire industry together—one inch at a time.”

Faster Response, Safer Roads: Motorola WAVE Push-to-Talk for Towing Professionals

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In the towing and recovery business, every second counts. Whether you’re responding to a stranded driver on a busy interstate, coordinating a multi-vehicle accident recovery, or managing dispatch across multiple regions, clear and instant communication is your lifeline. That’s where Motorola WAVE Push-to-Talk (PTT) comes in—a nationwide communication solution that keeps your entire team connected, no matter where the road takes them.

The Challenge for Towing Operations

Traditional two-way radios are powerful tools for local communication, but when your drivers are spread across cities, counties, or even state lines, staying in touch can become a challenge. Cell phones may offer coverage, but dialing, waiting for connections, and the risk of distracted driving slow your response time.

The result? Missed calls, miscommunication, and delayed service—all of which can impact customer satisfaction and your bottom line.

The WAVE Advantage

Motorola WAVE Push-to-Talk eliminates those barriers by giving you instant, secure, and reliable communication over any broadband network—4G LTE, 5G, or Wi-Fi. This means your tow truck operators, dispatchers, and supervisors can talk in real-time across the entire country with just the push of a button.

Key Benefits for the Towing Industry:

Nationwide Coverage: Stay connected with your fleet no matter where the job takes you—across the city or across state lines.
Instant Push-to-Talk: Communicate in real time without dialing or waiting for a connection.
Group and Private Calls: Reach the whole fleet instantly or speak privately with one driver.
GPS Location Tracking: Monitor vehicle locations to send the closest truck to a call, reducing response times and fuel costs.
Safe and Simple to Use: Dedicated PTT devices like the WAVE TLK 110 or TLK 150 are designed for one-touch operation, minimizing driver distraction.
Scalable: Add or remove users as your business needs change—no complex infrastructure required.

Real-World Impact

Imagine your dispatcher instantly alerting every driver about a multi-vehicle accident blocking a major route—before they get stuck in traffic. Or being able to locate the nearest available truck to assist a stranded customer, even if they’re two counties away. With WAVE, you’re not just improving communication—you’re improving efficiency, safety, and customer service.

Easy Deployment, Immediate Results

Motorola WAVE doesn’t require towers, repeaters, or complicated installations. Your team can be up and running in hours, not weeks. Devices can even be paired with your existing two-way radios for a seamless transition.

Whether you operate a single truck or a multi-state towing fleet, WAVE gives you the speed, coverage, and control you need to keep your business running smoothly—and your customers coming back.

In the towing world, fast communication isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. With Motorola WAVE, you can connect your team instantly, work more efficiently, and respond faster—anywhere the job takes you.

Learn more about Motorola WAVE for the towing industry at www.pttanywhere.com or call (800) 226-7470.

Beyond the Hook: When Hyper-Focus Becomes a Blind Spot

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I’ll admit it….. I am a list-maker, reminder-setter, and planner junkie. If there is a system to keep me on track, I have probably tried it! When I could not find one that I liked- I made my own. I like my ducks in a row, color-coded, and marching in order. And yes, I love being laser-focused on a task. But here’s the kicker: when I get hyper-focused, things slip. Not the small stuff either- the important things. Think about edit deadlines. (And no, I’m not saying I missed one… but I’m not saying I didn’t either.)

Take my most recent example: I have been working on an edit for a mentor I admire. I have been obsessing over getting it “just right.” Guess what I wasn’t paying attention to? The actual deadline. And now, here we are, and my edit is due tomorrow. I am still wrestling with what I want to write but the situation basically picked my next edit topic for me. Lesson learned: being hyper-focused isn’t always the flex we think it is.

And if you work in towing, you already know this truth better than most.

Recovery Reality Check

On the side of the road, hyper-focus can feel heroic. You’ve got a tractor-trailer on its side, traffic piling up, and everyone is watching your every move. You dial in so hard on the recovery (chains, rigging, angles) that you do not notice the driver standing too close, or that traffic control is not set up quite right. That blind spot? That is where accidents sneak in. And unlike a missed deadline, those mistakes can cost more than just a little embarrassment.

Operations Perspective

Owners and managers are not immune either. Get tunnel-vision on landing a shiny municipal contract, and suddenly maintenance gets overlooked, drivers feel forgotten, and the budget starts leaking faster than a blown hydraulic line. You might win the contract, but you will lose ground everywhere else. I have recently been experiencing issues with my dumpster company. They are contracted to provide weekly pickups, but that consistency has not been happening. At my ice cream shoppe, timely service is especially important, particularly during the summer months when temperatures climb into the 90s with high humidity. Overflowing dumpsters in that heat are not only unpleasant for our team but also create a poor experience for our customers.

My vendor has been buying up smaller companies, and in the process, their customer service and quality control have slipped. While I understand the challenges of expansion, but this hyper focus has created issues; frequent service lapses like this are not good business, especially for small businesses like mine that depend on reliable, routine service.

And let’s be real: chasing the “latest and greatest” recovery unit is fun, it is like Christmas morning for tow bosses. But if all your focus is on the big, flashy purchase, you might miss the not-so-sexy stuff like insurance renewals, compliance paperwork, or the small print in your financials. And trust me, those details always come back to bite when ignored.

Dispatch Drama

Dispatch is where hyper-focus can really cause chaos. Picture this: a dispatcher juggling a major highway wreck with multiple agencies. They are so locked in on that one call, the smaller jobs like simple tows and jumpstarts start piling up. Customers wait. Reputation tanks. All because focus turned into fixation.

Or the classic case: a dispatcher determined to make routing “perfect.” They are so busy drawing lines on the map that a stranded customer is still waiting, a driver’s twiddling their thumbs, and a police call is about to roll over to another company. Perfect routing? Cute. But useless if it stalls the whole shift.

The Balancing Act

Here’s the deal: hyper-focus should be a spotlight, not a blindfold. It is powerful when you need it, but dangerous when it blinds you to the bigger picture. The best in this industry know when to zero in and when to zoom out.

So yes, focus hard when it counts, but do not let it cost you safety, customers, or credibility. In towing, and in life, it is not about being glued to one task, it is about seeing the whole road ahead.

Retirement – Not What It’s Cracked Up To Be

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Before selling things, particularly a tow company, there’s lots to do. When I was ready to sell our tow company, I had to prepare for the sale. Here’s a list of a few things I had to address:

Find a good lawyer to work on the contract. When I decided to sell it, since it had been our security for the future, I wanted a good lawyer who was going to look out for my best interest.
I told all my employees what I was planning to do. I had to reassure them this was a good thing for them, and make sure no key employees would leave. It was hard since we had 35 employees, but we worked like a family.
I confided in my top 10 customers to make sure they would not leave for other tow company. I reassured them the new company was good, and service would not skip a beat. In my case, the company that bought our company was one of the biggest in Dallas, so those customers knew they would be in good hands.
I was leasing an 8-acre storage lot, so I had to let my landlord know I was selling. I had to make sure I could get out of my contract, and the new company could take over.
I had to fix all my trucks and make sure they were running, and the loans could be transferred.
I paid off as much debt as possible to get a good price when I sold.

One thing I never planned on was Retirement.

Retirement comes with many benefits. And, as you get ready to retire, start thinking about the impact it will have on your life. The following are a few benefits of retirement:

Personal and lifestyle changes

More free time you can pursue hobbies, travel, or spend time with the family. That’s for some people.
You will give up all the stress you encounter over the years.
You can focus on your health. That is the 1^st thing everyone says they will do, but it’s hard getting off the couch to exercise.
You can try new things, learn new skills, or volunteer for different things.
Towing keeps you on the road, so now you can spend more time with the family.

Financial Benefits

Retirement income could be a problem if you did not save when you were working. When you are self-employed it’s tough to start a 401k, or some other retirement account. Most people end up living off social security.
Hopefully you will find some good tax breaks, but you can’t count on the government.
When you retire, you will enjoy many senior discounts.

Mentally your whole outlook will change.

You are free to do what you want, and you can structure your days to fit your needs. This gets old fast.
Retiring gives you a chance to look back and see what you accomplished. You worked hard all your life and deserve to look at your accomplishments.
Other opportunities will present itself for you to help others.

Your health will get better as you start to live a stress-free life.

You get to sleep in the mornings and take naps in the afternoon. No schedules to worry about or no place to be.
There’s no burnout because you don’t have risks, or stress.
More time to concentrate on getting healthy. As a tower it’s hard work, and your health may not be good enough to work out long-term.

Unless you’re planning on doing something else later, retirement is a big part of selling your business. If you don’t have a family member to give it to, and you can help them, then you are on your own. After I sold my company, I retired. I watched a lot of Netflix movies and got bored to tears. I missed the industry, so I started TowTrax, a digital dispatch system. It kept me busy. I built it up and had a CEO running it for me.

It pretty much runs by itself, and I have a few people interested in purchasing it, so that means I will face retirement again. As I mentioned a while back, I attended a tow show, and what the tow companies needed was not being sold. I used my 35 years of experience and put together a document that helps tow companies brand your company, market your company, and how to find and keep drivers. I am excited about this part of my life because it puts me back in the industry again, working directly with small tow companies.

I am currently working with 12 companies that are interested in using my experience to help grow their business. If you are interested in my experience, give me a call. I recently read an article where someone did a survey, and insurance will be the next problem for the industry. It seems like it’s getting harder to keep the doors open, and someone better start addressing the major needs of the industry or all of us will be in trouble.

At 78 years old, I’m just not ready to enjoy all those benefits yet. I feel I still have a lot to offer to the industry. There are tow companies out there that can benefit from my experience, and I want to share what I’ve learned with them. Why?

I’m just not ready to throw in the towel yet!

Sprinkling Moisture on Your Towing Company’s Mission Statement

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You are probably wondering how the dew point could possibly affect this industry in some way. Whether you pay attention to it or not, every evening as the sun goes down, nature restarts the process of watering the grass, flowers and trees. It’s built into nature and happens like clockwork, every day without fail. Sometimes it’s a small amount of dew and sometimes, it’s more than expected so that everything can refurbish itself. As the difference in temperature falls from hotter to cooler temps, a dew forms through water drops, fog, frost or snow. If the day was extremely hot but the nighttime temperature was cooler, dew points are expected to climb.

When the sun rises the next morning, the grass, flowers and trees appreciate the effort because the dew point makes them ready to face the sun again. With just one step into the grass early in the morning, you know exactly what I mean. You might even notice how much water has accumulated on your shoes. Some days it’s more than other days. And instinctively, you’ll find that some days are much better than other days in your business. If things aren’t going well right now, then maybe it’s time to reflect on what you want to achieve in your business and rehash your company’s mission with your team, so everyone is prepared for a better day in the towing industry.

There’s a question you must ask yourself every morning. What can I do today that will help us do better than yesterday? Maybe you have a goal in mind or aspire to have one but don’t quite follow it on a day-to-day basis. I understand. Things can happen at any time to throw us off track. If your mission statement is followed to the tee by everyone on your team, that’s fantastic. Keeping everyone working toward a common mission isn’t easy but reminding them of what they’re here for is necessary. If you don’t have a mission statement, then work on one.

Your mission statement should include what you and your team offer and how your team members react to and provide your customers. If everyone in your business knows your mission statement and can work toward it every day, it could result in the best day EVER in your business. You and your team will enjoy the day, be satisfied for the activity they accomplished, and everyone will want a repeat tomorrow. Dew point does that for foliage too, so why not sprinkle something extra on your team each day so you stand apart from others in this industry. Special recognition for a good job, done well, can go a long way with any team member. So don’t be afraid to praise someone in front of other team members.

Perhaps you want to be one of the best towing providers around, helping as many people as you can without getting bogged down in politics of the industry. Maybe you just want to be a help to as many people as you can, so others want to do business with you. Reaching across the aisle could garner some new customers, with whom after you’ve proven yourself, they could be customers for life. Customers can recognize a helpful provider and prefer doing business with those that demonstrate help.

Here are three different mission statements from companies within the towing industry. They wake up every day, finding ways that they can help others in need. I’ve copied their mission statements directly from their websites.

Silverline Towing – Our Mission Statement

The mission statement of our company is to become the premier provider of roadside assistance and towing services in the Alameda County and other neighboring areas. It is our desire to deliver high-quality solutions to various vehicle problems that most drivers experience on the road. By embracing technology, developing internal efficiencies, and focusing on the client’s welfare, we can minimize automobile accidents and help the drivers get back on the road as soon as possible.

Rincon Towing – Mission Statement

We at RINCON TOWING, Inc., are committed to providing you, our customer, the highest quality of professional towing and roadside service available in the industry. For you, we have kept up with equipment research, industry trends and safety measures, resulting in a tailor-made fleet able to handle the diverse demands of California transportation.

Englewood Truck Towing & Recovery Mission Statement

To provide peace of mind to our customer base and the communities we serve through our world class towing & recovery, transport, and roadside solutions. We accomplish this with a commitment to the Englewood Ethics where employees are empowered, and customers’ expectations are exceeded on a repeat basis.

Whether they’re towing or just helping to get someone back on the road, all of them want to be a help to those working within this industry. I can also guarantee that each of them wants to offer the best help they can to as many people as they can. So, ask yourself. Is your team on the same page, and what do you and your team members need so you can provide the best you can for your customers? Do you need more competitive prices, quality equipment, better customer service skills from your team members or training by others within the industry so your team is better prepared for each day?

It’s time you sprinkle some moisture on yourselves each morning by reviewing your company’s mission with your team so you can be the best you can be for everyone going forward. Forget about yesterday’s blunders because that’s in the past. Wake up today, knowing that you’re starting a new day with a fresh spirit and willingness to help customers get what they need, and then, GO OUT and DO IT!

See you on the next podcast.

Common Car Carrier Mistakes

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You have a lot to consider when purchasing a new car carrier for your business. Bed length, truck capacity, bed material and equipment upgrades all weigh into the decision-making process.

Whether it’s your first purchase or you’re looking to upgrade or expand your fleet, the equipment experts at Zip’s have put together a blog to review the Top 5 Common Mistakes customers overlook when buying a new rollback.

Even seasoned owners and operators can forget simple considerations. Learn from their missteps and make the right decision for your operation based on your workload, customer base, geography and climate.

Here are a few tips to get started. The rest can be found by clicking the QR code.

1. Underestimating GVWR and Payload Capacity

If your carrier is routinely maxed out, you’re risking DOT compliance issues, excessive wear on your truck and reduced braking and handling performance. This often happens when operators only factor in the vehicle being hauled and overlook key contributors to total weight.

Common oversights include the weight of diesel fuel, DEF tanks, co-workers and passengers, toolboxes and rigging gear and the growing trend of heavier vehicles like EVs, AWDs, SUVs and cargo vans. Towed loads, especially underlifted, can also transfer significant weight onto the rear axle, pushing it over its rating even when overall GVWR appears within limits. Over time, running at or near max capacity can shorten the lifespan of your truck and compromise safety.

Zip’s Tip:

Don’t spec your unit based solely on your average load—plan for your heaviest. Account for both the payload on the bed and axle load from towed vehicles. A longer bed or strategic weight placement may help balance axle distribution. Talk with your Zip’s rep about chassis options, axle ratings and suspension upgrades if your hauls and tows run heavy day-to-day.

2. Choosing the Wrong Bed Length & Material

Choosing the wrong bed size or material can limit the carrier’s capability and performance. Shorter beds (e.g., 19′) might come at a lower upfront cost, but they restrict your ability to haul longer vehicles and negatively affect load distribution. This can lead to improper winch angles (which may drag or damage vehicles), increased risk of bottoming out low-clearance vehicles and the inability to legally or safely load extended SUVs, trucks or specialty vehicles.

Deck material also matters. Steel offers durability but adds more weight, while aluminum is lighter and corrosion-resistant but can come at a higher cost. Choosing the wrong material for your climate or use case can lead to premature wear or unnecessary maintenance.

Zip’s Tip:

Think beyond today’s loads. Choose a longer bed, 21 feet or more, if you anticipate hauling extended vehicles or want more flexibility with load placement. For materials, go with aluminum for corrosion resistance and weight savings, or steel for added toughness. To extend the life of your carrier, consider upgrading to a galvanized sub-frame—especially if you operate in snowy or coastal environments where rust is a concern.

Disregarding Tilt and Load Angle Requirements

If you’re towing low-clearance vehicles like EVs, sports cars or custom builds, steep load angles can lead to serious front-end damage. This often results from overlooking how bed length, carrier height or tilt mechanisms impact loading geometry. Poor load angles can also make the loading process more difficult and hazardous in tight or uneven spaces.

Zip’s Tip:

If you frequently haul low-clearance vehicles, you have several smart options to improve loading safety and efficiency. A Low Center of Gravity (LCG) carrier offers a naturally lower deck height and better load angles by design. You can also consider a dual-angle bed or a right approach bed, both engineered to significantly reduce the approach angle during loading. Pair any of these with a longer bed to further minimize drag points and make the loading process safer and smoother.

Read all five tips at Zips.com or click the QR code above. The experienced sales staff at Zip’s is here to help. If you have additional questions regarding a new rollback or want to learn more about the capacity rating of the one you already own, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 800-222-6047.

United We Tow: Women Must Lead the Charge Toward Industry Unity

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In today’s rapidly shifting landscape, the need for unity in the towing industry has never been more critical. As opposing associations grow stronger and more organized, towers across the nation continue to face a challenge that hits closer to home: division within our own ranks.

The Power We Give Away

It is time we face a hard truth: while bills are being passed behind closed doors that directly impact on our livelihood and outside organizations use their numbers and influence to work against us, we are still busy disagreeing among ourselves. While other associations and interest groups continue to grow in size, strength, and strategy, we are still struggling to get on the same page. We are wasting valuable time, resources, and energy arguing over differences instead of focusing on what we have in common: a shared mission to protect, elevate, and sustain our industry.

More Than a Role – A Responsibility

As I speak with women across the towing community, I hear the same message repeatedly: we understand the need to come together, and we want unity. We are powerful forces within this industry- not just behind the desk or the wheel, but in boardrooms, at statehouses, and on association boards. Now is the time for us to lead by example and commit to something greater than ourselves. In the towing industry, many of us wear more than one hat. We are business owners, operators, dispatchers, managers, spouses, parents, mentors, and more. We stay up late figuring out payroll, we wake up early to chase a call, and we work tirelessly to serve our customers and support our teams. We do it because we care not just about our businesses, but about the people and the future of this industry!

Progress Over Perfection

Let’s be clear that not every issue is a personal issue. But if we do not address the challenges facing our industry now, they will become personal in the future. I will not pretend to have agreed with every position our associations have taken, state or local. That is the reality of any organization. But that never stopped me from being a member, getting involved, and working to shape the industry I care so deeply about. Because I believe in working toward a stronger future, even when it requires compromise. We do not create change by sitting on the sidelines; we create it by stepping into the arena. It is about protecting what we have built and creating something even stronger for the next generation. We all have a role to play. We already lead in so many ways on the road, in our businesses, in our communities. Now is the time to lead by example in our associations, too.

Too often, when faced with disagreement, we respond by blocking progress, breaking away, or starting something new. But splintering only weakens us. If we could not collaborate in one association, what makes us think we will suddenly cooperate better in another?

When we divide, everyone loses. Instead of one strong, unified, influential organization, we end up with smaller ones that duplicate efforts, dilute impact, and exhaust resources. We lose the momentum we have built. Attendance at industry events suffers, our collective voice weakens, and legislators take note not of our professionalism, but our inability to work together. That damages the credibility we have fought hard to earn.

The Road Ahead Awaits Us

I would like to take a moment to thank Cynthia Martineau for her years of service as our Executive Director of TRAA. Our national association has made great strides under her leadership, and we are stronger because of her dedication. That said, we still have a long road ahead. I am putting my support in our incoming Executive Director, Bruce Bender, to continue that momentum forward and to push us toward much-needed unity and effectiveness in our industry. Please consider joining TRAA, whether you agree with everything or not, and help us stand up for the future of our industry.

The Change Starts With Us

We can and must do better. And the women of this industry are uniquely positioned to lead the way. We have long worn many hats- owners, operators, advocates, mothers, managers, mentors. Now let’s add unifiers to that list. Let’s not just talk about change; let’s be the reason it happens.

It is time to walk the walk. To support our state and national associations. To find common ground. To show the world what towers can do together.

What’s not at Tow Show

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It’s been several years since I’ve been to a Tow Show. This past weekend there was a tow show in Dallas, so I decided to go. Since I was one of the founders of Southwest Tow Association and this association played a big part of the show I thought it I would go and see old friends and see all the changes over the past few years.

It was great to see old friends and see new products that are in the industry. I’ll tell you what I did not see, and I’ve been going to show for years and never saw what is really needed for industry. Things that are important for a tow company are the following:

Finding Drivers – I have been in the industry for over 35 years and finding drivers is still the number one problem for tow companies. Leaving companies for your children is be coming a thing of the past because the younger generation has new priorities. Todays employees are into the following

Being on the phone
Making more money and doing less work
They would rather have a computer than a tow truck
They want to work less hours
They want to work from home
Not wanting to get their hands dirty.

This is nothing against this generation, it’s just the way it is. I want to show you a few things you can do to attract drivers.

Explain why they should work for your company. Make it sound exciting, and the potential money to be made.
Good pay, with bonuses. When I ran my company, I had drivers that made 6 figures, I trained all my drivers. I dressed them up in uniforms and gave them incentives that let them drive their own truck and decorate it and way they wanted.
I let my drivers help me make decisions for the company and made them feel important. I worked hard to get good accounts that gave them plenty of towing opportunities. Some of my drivers had their own accounts that no one could tow from. I let the driver build the relationship with the customers and they could spend money on them to make them happy.
They could always count on getting paid on certain days
I gave them time off so they did not get burned out.
I trained them and gave them the newest and greatest in equipment.
If I could offer insurance for their family, or other family benefits would be attractive.
I made the hiring process easy with details of the job and follow up while trying to hire them.
Let them talk to other successful drivers and get testimonial from their peers.
I offered a good referral program paying cash or letting them bring on a friend.
I paid for all their training programs, and I made sure we had safety procedures in place to make them feel safe.
I always had a salesperson, so my drivers saw me going after new accounts.
Offer them pilot programs and give them a chance to learn.
Used the latest technology to make sure we could offer our customers what they need to run their companies.

I had 36 employees when I sold my company and over the seven years no one quit. I always had a line of people at my door wanting to work for me and my employees knew they could be replaced if they would not follow the policies.

Branding your Company – I played a lot of sports in my career and I always build the best teams. I wanted to intimidate my competition, so we all wore uniforms and had the best equipment available. Whether it was a softball team, my basketball team, or my flag football team, when we went to a tournament, we would walk on the field and they already knew who we were, and how good we were. The same works in business. I always made sure my customers, or potential customers knew what I was offering with my service or knew how good we were. Here are a few things why a good brand is important:

A good brand build recognition. If you look good, and offer a great service everyone will want to be your customer. When customers mention towing you want them to automatically think of you company. When they see you, they remember you.
A good brand builds trust, You want to know you potential customers to know your professional, you are reliable, and they will have confidence in you.
My customers felt like they were partners with my company because they knew me and how I built my company.
A strong brand will help market the services you offer. If a potential customer needs a towing service they automictically thought of my company.
When the time comes to sell you company a good brand will bring a better price. When I sold my company, I had 2 buyers fighting to buy it.
A good brand will attract the best talent in the industry.

Branding is not just a logo it’s a perception people will have about your company.

Marketing your company – You want to market to your audience. Apartment complexes were my best customer base, so I found a police department that had meeting monthly with apartment managers to discuss crime in the area. I offered to buy them lunch if they gave me a 15-minute pitch on my company. This is how I built my company.

Know the audience. Identify who will provide you the most tow and go after them.
Focus on bebefits. I let them know I had all the proper insurance to protect them. I showed them a problem, and how I will fix it.
Use testimonials from their peers. Keep it simple and persuasive.
Measure your success and adjust as needed.

These are the three things I focused on that made me successful. I can help give me a call.

Do You Have A “CANI” Spirit?

BLP MEDIA

Recently, I was explaining to someone what happened at a carpet convention in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Back then I was hired to speak to about 900 carpet dealers for a well-known carpet company, Mohawk Carpet. The atmosphere at that convention was very much like speaking to a large room of tow operators from the Ohio Tow Show.

For two years, I travelled the US, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom doing my “CANI” classes. Every letter of the word, “CANI,” stands for something: Constant And Never-ending Improvement. A person’s improvement can’t stop. He or she must ALWAYS continue improving. The Japanese call it KAIZEN. Toyota uses it today. Let me explain what I mean. When a speaker, like me, leads a group by asking the group to repeat something after me, they normally do repeat it. That day, I told the audience to say, “CANI”, and all 900 dealers yelled back, “CANI”. However, it wasn’t without guarded looks, side-to-side. I could see that maybe they weren’t quite sure about my request. Not to be short-changed, I pressed with, “Are you with me?”

We practiced it once more, and then I pressed, “When I say “CANI”, you’re supposed to respond with “CANI”. All of us need to be constant learners and always be improving on what we do. Saying CANI does that for people. That convention lasted 3 days. So, for 3 days, we hadn’t seen the President of Mohawk take the platform. When the President did, he was a tall, thin man with a full head of hair. (I hate that type—the full-head of hair type). Their President showed up the last day of the convention as the keynote speaker.

When the President exited the elevator, people around him were saying, “CANI”. Since he hadn’t heard me speak about Constant And Never-ending Improvement, he asked his assistant, “What the hell are they saying?” With much trepidation, she said, “Oh, sir we had a speaker, D.J. Harrington, open the convention, and he has everyone saying, “CANI”. It stands for constant and never-ending improvement.” There’s no doubt that she explained to him what everyone else had already heard about constant improvement. The day that I spoke at their convention, three speakers followed my opening talk. All those speakers started their speech addressing the audience with “CANI,” and all the carpet dealers yelled back the same phrase. It was great to hear their response each time it was done. It’s inevitable!

When the President of Mohawk finally took the stage to speak to the audience, he started with, “I guess I need to start by saying, “CANI.” The entire group of dealers from across the US and Canada yelled back in unison, “CANI”. Ok, what just happened? Here’s my point. A positive affirmation was created within the group, and their response was going to continue.

That meeting happened years ago, but I was reminded again of the atmosphere that phrase, “CANI” created when I visited Marsh Motors in Jacksonville, Florida. Jim Marsh and I walked through his beautiful place, assessing his successes. Every employee greeted Jim with “CANI”. Hearing that phrase again told me that Jim had brought home the CANI attitude story to his team. Delighted to hear “CANI” from the employee, Jim answered him with “CANI”. Hearing both men repeat that phrase really made my day. The underlying message is that Jim and his people work as a team. The people at Marsh Motors believe in constant and never-ending business improvement.

However, Marsh Motors isn’t the only company doing this. Interactive Financial Marketing Group in Richmond, Virginia used the same phrase at their Christmas party to toast the New Year. With glasses held high, the team at IFMG yelled, “CANI”. The best part? Their improvement continues today.

Folks, we have an opportunity this year to make some adjustments, so we can keep improving. You’re probably thinking we’re already halfway through the year, DJ! True! Even though we are, it’s still not too late to make changes that can add to our improvement. Certainly, things are changing in this world, but none of it should stop us from keeping our CANI spirit alive. Igniting improvement is the best thing that can happen to us. So, I have a favor to ask of you.

When you see me next time, whether it’s while I’m speaking at a convention or facilitating a training class, make sure you say, “CANI”. It certainly will give me great pleasure to respond with, “CANI”. Until then, don’t stop working on Constant, And Never-Ending Improvement.

See you on the next podcast.

You’re Not Alone

BLP MEDIA

I look back at my career in towing and realized that I have accomplished a lot. I’ve had the opportunity to write articles for Tow Times, American Towman Magazine, and Tow Professional Magazine for the past 11 years. At a variety of trade shows, I held seminars and trained hundreds of towers in how to be successful in private property towing. With those successes, I put them in a book that shows all the steps I took to be successful.

In 2009, I started one of the largest towing associations in the U.S. (Southwest Tow Operators, in Texas) which runs annually on a budget of $200,000. In 2009, American Towman Magazines awarded me Towman of the Year and I made the cover of their magazine. I was able to sell my business after just 7 years and had 2 bidders fighting for my company. At that point, I decided to retire, but I was quick to realize that retiring was not for me.

I wanted to continue to help owners with their business, so I started TowTrax, a phone app that gets towers the tows that they never had before. It’s a multimillion-dollar business and has two dozen tow companies holding part ownership in the business. If you are interested in buying ownerships in TowTrax, give me a call.

As my staff runs TowTrax, I want to continue to work in the industry, so I’m starting another business that gives me the opportunity to work directly with you and help you grow your business. I want to work with you as a consultant and offer all my knowledge to you. I developed a website which is loaded with videos that show step-by-step all the parts to starting a successful business. You can post questions you might have, decisions you are about to make, needing help, or problems you are facing, and you need an outside opinion.

You pay an annual fee of $75 and get me for the year. I also have a team of professionals that work with me and are excited to offer help to your growing business. These guys are retired businessmen who have faced the problems or obstacles you face in your day-to-day business and will help you overcome them.

Here is what my team can offer you in your business.

Problem solving

Identify inefficiencies, weaknesses, or challenges
Provide customer strategies

Special Expertise

Brings knowledge the client does not have in-house. Things like finance operations, marketing, technology, legal compliance.
Advice based on real world experience and proven methods.

Business Growth

Help increase revenue, improve profit margins, and expand markets. Offer guidance on branding business, advertising, pricing, and scaling the business.
Implement systems for on-going improvement with municipal, consumer, and private calls.

Training and Development

Training employees, managers, or owners in best practices, leadership, or technical skills.
Improve systems for on-going improvement. We can recommend driver certifications, safety, and professionalism
We can help coach owners with leadership, hiring, and team building. Help staff with call handling, invoicing, and customer service.

Operational Improvements

Streamline workflows, cutting waste, or reducing cost, we can identify issues with dispatching, response time, or driver turnover.
Improve customer service, dispatching software can also help you with customer complaints, or truck downtime, re-use, or internal processes. We have expertise in working with the police, motor clubs, and municipalities. We can help you face insurance problems and DOP compliance. Help you streamline GPS and call intake. Recommend software to track trucks, jobs, and payments. We can give you ideas to cut fuel waste, downtime, and unproductive labor hours.

Strategic Planning

Build business plans, marketing strategies, and investor pitching
Help set and track goals for growth, exit planning, or investment. We can help boost cash flow through better pricing and billing processes. If you are looking to open a second location or sell the business, I have done it all. I offer a fresh set of eyes to help you evaluate your pricing, your employee performance, and customer experience. I can help you spot the weaknesses or missed opportunities your competitors are taking advantage of.

Outside Perspective

Provide feedback, unbiased feedback,
See blind spots that owners or staff may overlook

When you read this article, you might take it as an advertisement for my new company. I assure you all the information in the article are things I addressed when I ran my business. I joined a group of business owners that got together and helped each other with our business problems. I was the only tow company listed in the group, and there were 10 of us. It was very helpful because I did not have to handle things myself.

I paid $500 a month, and it was worth every penny. I am offering you my services for an annual fee of $75 a year. If interested call me at 469-774-0340, text me at this number, or send me an email (dan@towtrax.com).

NEW Preventing Roadside & Work Zone Deaths Act

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TRAA is thrilled to share that the bipartisan Preventing Roadside and Work Zone Death Act (H.R.2992) has officially been introduced! Many of you will recall from past notices that TRAA has been working with Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (LA-02) since the original version of the Prevent Roadside Deaths Act was introduced in the last Congress. Even better news is that this new version explicitly includes “traffic incident responders” as a direct result of TRAA’s efforts.

Additionally, the successful constituent meetings held by many of our members during TRAA’s Legislative Action Workshop & Hill Day in February have also resulted in three Members of Congress agreeing to join Congressman Troy Carter (D-LA 2) as original cosponsors of this legislation – Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV 1), Rudy Yakym (R-IN 2), and Rob Bresnahan (R-PA 8).

If enacted, the Preventing Roadside and Work Zone Death Act would establish a coordinated effort under the U.S. Department of Transportation, including data collection initiatives, enhanced Slow Down, Move Over campaigns, and the creation of a task force to develop concrete strategies to save lives.

To continue building momentum and raise awareness, we’re asking TRAA members to contact their representatives and ask them to cosponsor H.R.2992.

Q2 2025 Industry Update for Jerr-Dan Dealers & Customers

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From the Desk of Bob Nelson

Q2 2025 Industry Update for Jerr-Dan Dealers & Customers

As we move into the heart of 2025, I want to take a moment to reflect on the current state of the towing and recovery industry and share some updates on what we’re seeing across the country.

It’s tradeshow season, and we’re seeing strong engagement at these events. The visitors coming through our booths aren’t just kicking tires—they’re buyers and ready to invest. That tells us there’s confidence out there, even if it’s cautious.

Towers are staying busy. Across much of the U.S., winter brought solid snowfall, fueling Q1 activity and keeping trucks on the road well into early Q2. As the saying goes, “when it snows, we tow,” and that was certainly the case for many of our partners this season.

We expected a slow start to the year, and that’s largely played out. But the forecast points to a ramp-up in the second half. With schools letting out for summer and families getting on the road for vacation, we anticipate a strong uptick in roadside demand this summer. Historically, June through August have been prime months for towing activity, and early indicators suggest this summer will follow that same trend. We predict that Q3 and Q4 could bring the momentum we’ve been waiting for.

Still, we know there are real challenges influencing buying behavior. Interest rates remain high, financing terms are stretching longer — some out to 12 years — and insurance premiums continue to climb. Dealers are working hard to move 2024 inventory, but buyers are taking their time, weighing economic uncertainty and watching how things unfold with tariffs, chassis supply and recession chatter.

At Jerr-Dan, we’re staying focused on what we can control: Continuing to invest in product development and standing shoulder to shoulder with our dealers. This spring, we’re excited to launch a new attachment designed to expand operator capability, and later this year, we’ll be introducing a new truck that reflects our commitment to performance, safety and innovation.

We remain optimistic about where the industry is headed. Demand is there. Work is out there. And when the market turns — and it will — we want our partners ready to capitalize. Thank you for your continued trust and for all you do to keep the towing world moving.

Wishing you a strong and successful Q2,

Bob Nelson
Vice President & General Manager, Jerr-Dan

What Makes a Medium-Duty Chassis Ideal for the Tow Industry?

BLP MEDIA

In the tow and recovery industry, time, reliability, and comfort are more than preferences, they’re requirements. For fleet owners, operators, and drivers, the choice of a medium-duty truck chassis can make a measurable difference in daily efficiency, safety, and long-term profitability. Today’s top-performing chassis platforms offer more than just strength and power; they’re built around the real needs of the people who operate them.

Durability and Performance

At the core of every successful tow operation is a truck that can manage tough loads and long days. That begins with a strong frame. Many fleets look for chassis offering frame strength up to 80,000 PSI, ideal for heavy-duty upfitting like flatbeds and wheel lifts. A dependable powertrain is just as critical. Hino Trucks, for example, pairs a proven Cummins 6.7L diesel engine with an Allison 6-speed automatic transmission in all of its models, striking a balance between performance and efficiency. Hino offers an industry exclusive 5-year standard transmission warranty.

Driver-Centric Cab Design

The cab is more than a workspace, it’s where drivers spend most of their day. That’s why comfort, visibility, and accessibility matter. One area where Hino clearly differentiates itself is in its wide, automotive-inspired cab design. The interior offers ergonomic seating, intuitive controls, and a layout that was designed with the driver in mind.

Over-the-hood visibility is another key consideration. Towing professionals often operate in high-traffic or roadside emergency conditions. A clear view of the road and surrounding vehicles not only improves safety, it also reduces driver fatigue. Hino’s cab design and low-profile hood contribute to best-in-class visibility, making it easier to see in tight or congested spaces.

Agility and Serviceability

A truck built for towing must be agile. Whether navigating narrow urban streets or backing into a tight recovery position, a 55-degree wheel cut allows for exceptional maneuverability. Hino offers one of the tightest turning angles in the industry.

Ease of maintenance is another overlooked but critical feature. Hino’s cab and hood design allows for quick engine access, simplifying driver pre-trip inspections and saving technicians time during routine service. These small efficiencies add up over the life of a truck, reducing downtime and improving uptime.

Versatility and Peace of Mind

Tow fleets need options. Whether running a solo rollback or a full fleet of recovery vehicles, chassis configurability is key. Medium-duty platforms like Hino’s L Series offer multiple wheelbases with standard and extended cab options, accommodating a variety of upfits without costly customizations.

Long-term dependability is also top of mind for owners. Hino supports its trucks with some of the most extensive standard warranties in the industry while also offering an array of extended chassis warranties out to 7 years/300,000 miles, a valuable consideration when evaluating total cost of ownership. These warranties give operators and business owners peace of mind, knowing they’re backed for the long haul.

A Platform Built for Purpose

When it comes to selecting a medium-duty truck chassis for towing, it’s not just about specs, it’s about how those specs translate into real-world performance. From a driver-focused cab and best-in-class turning radius to serviceability and strong OEM support, Hino Trucks has earned a reputation in the towing community for reliability and ease of use by providing The Ultimate Ownership Experience.

Ultimately, choosing the right chassis comes down to identifying the features that matter most to your operation, and making sure the truck you select is built to work as hard as you do.

Advanced Track Solutions, LLC.

BLP MEDIA

Introduction

In the ever-evolving world of vehicle transportation, efficiency, safety, and innovation are key. ResQTrack emerges as a groundbreaking solution, catering to the needs of professionals and industries that require reliable and precise vehicle relocation. Whether used in emergency scenarios, industrial applications, or routine operations, ResQTrack represents a leap forward in vehicle mobility technology.

Overview of the ResQTrack

The ResQTrack vehicle mover is a highly versatile machine designed to assist in the seamless relocation of vehicles. ResQTrack offers capabilities from small cars to full size SUV’s and pick-ups, it is engineered to handle diverse weights and dimensions. The ResQTrack is powered by a gas or diesel engine and provides unparalleled ease of use, making it an obvious choice for automotive professionals.

Core Features

Precision and Control: The ResQTrack is remote controlled and allows for precise movement of vehicles, making it ideal for tight spaces or challenging environments. Locations where standard wreckers or flatbeds are unable to reach.
Adaptability: Its design accommodates various vehicle types and sizes, ensuring versatility across multiple applications.
Damage Free: ResQTrack allows for damage free operation, the only part of the vehicle that is touched is the surface of the tires, thus eliminating the risk of damage to vehicles.

The ResQTrack vehicle mover finds its utility across a wide range of scenarios and industries. Below are some of the key applications:

1. Emergency Response

In situations where vehicles need to be quickly relocated and responders are in a “hands off” transport, the ResQTrack delivers unparalleled efficiency. ResQTrack can place vehicles in a secured law enforcement facility without even rolling a wheel or touching the vehicle.

2. Automotive Repair and Collision Centers

Mechanics and automotive professionals’ benefit from the ResQTracks ability to effortlessly position vehicles in garages or repair bays. Its precision ensures that vehicles are moved without any risk of damage.

3. Parking Management

The ResQTrack vehicle mover is a game-changer for parking facilities where space is at a premium. It enables staff to optimize vehicle arrangement, ensuring efficient use of available space. Parking structures always pose a problem, ResQTrack eliminates these stressful multi-truck types of calls.

4. Breakdown Towing

Today’s technology in vehicles possesses a serious problem for the towing industry. Electronic Park brakes and electronic transmissions create problems for everyday towing. ResQTrack eliminates wasted time trying to release brakes or engage shift lock releases.

The adoption of the ResQTrack brings numerous advantages to its users:

Time-Saving: Eliminates the need for multiple trucks and multiple drivers.
Cost-Efficiency: By enhancing operational efficiency, ResQTrack helps save costs on labor and resources.
Ease of Operation: Even with minimal training, operators can use the ResQTrack effectively, thanks to its intuitive controls.
Return on Investment: Allows for 1 truck instead of time wasted, waiting for a support truck, which allows other trucks to be working other calls.

Maintenance

Maintaining the ResQTrack is straightforward, thanks to its robust design, routine maintenance ensures its long-term functionality.

Customer Support

Advanced Track Solutions offers comprehensive customer support, including:

Technical assistance and troubleshooting.
Access to replacement parts and upgrades.
Training for new operators.

Conclusion

The ResQTrack represents a paradigm shift in vehicle relocation technology. Its innovative features, diverse applications, and user-centric design make it an indispensable tool for professionals in the towing industry. As technology continues to advance, solutions like the ResQTrack pave the way for safer, more efficient, and sustainable practices in vehicle transportation.

For the towing industry, the ResQTrack stands out as a versatile and reliable addition to any fleet. It not only simplifies vehicle relocation but also inspires confidence in operators, ensuring that every task is completed with precision and care. The ResQTrack is more than just a tool—it is a testament to what modern engineering and innovation can achieve.

We Are Back! YES, We Are!

BLP MEDIA

You got it! We are back at the Great Wolf Lodge in Mason, Ohio. Mark your calendar right now while you are reading this article in the number one magazine for Towing and Recovery industry. Additionally, mark it for September 25^th -28^th, 2025. For so many years, the towing companies, all throughout Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia, packed the Great Wolf Lodge for the best family tow show of the year.

The event is called the Midwest Regional Tow Show. Do yourself a favor. Don’t miss this great time at a spectacular location. Your children will thank you for bringing them to the most family-friendly show of the year. Children are entertained on Friday and Saturday evenings, allowing parents to attend the show events.

The women of TRAO host a luncheon, featuring a Safety, Fashion Show with new apparel complete with male “models”. I was one of them two years ago, known to readers as the “Love Doctor”. Yes, I did strut down the runway while showcasing new apparel, and with style, I might add!

For learning instruction, there will be plenty of seminars. Yes, there is no cost to go to a class while at the Great Wolf Lodge for one of the best tow shows of the year.

The most attended part of this show is held on Thursday night. It starts at 5:30p. It is called “Celebration of Life”/Slow Down, Move Over Event with a full-scale parade. I participated last year. I was honoring Linda Unruh’s son, Bobby who was killed on the roadside helping a tractor trailer out of a ditch.

Now, let me spend a few moments about the reason I like this show much more than other shows. Yes, it is the most family-friendly tow show of the year. I will certainly give it that. Here’s another reason I prefer this show. On Friday night, you will find me at the Injured Driver’s Fund Auction. There is plenty of food, drinks, music and a cash bar at this event. I will be bringing some items for the auction. All the proceeds go straight to the Injured Driver’s Fund. The live auctioneer makes it fun and very entertaining. All the items line the walls of this big room which have been donated by fellow towers, and vendors attending this show. So, bring one or two items to auction off for this great cause. Additionally, after this event, you can join in a poker tournament.

Ok, Women! Saturday is for you. At 12:00pm, the TRAO puts on the Women’s Luncheon. Get your tickets for $20.00 at the WTRAO booth located in the main conference area. A reminder though, dress in your best Western attire. Best dressed wins an award. Every night is “Lil Towers Night”. One night they do a camping event while Saturday night is movie night and a pajama party.

For all adults, every night is karaoke night. In Ohio, they have “the karaoke singers”. It is fun to watch everyone take the stage, and they have a great time. There are always people there that will sing along with you. Last year, I did the Blues Brothers rendition of “I’m a Tow Man” with Chuck Camps band from the Great State of Georgia. We had towers from lots of other states, a bunch from Florida were there too. So, go to their web page at Midwest Tow Show.org or call Bruce Bender at 513-791-7555 if you want a booth or to make reservations.

Until September 25th, I’ll see you on the next podcast.