Camel Towing

How to Safely Tow a 5th Wheel Vehicle

2023-03-22

Towing a 5th wheel can seem intimidating, but with the right equipment and technique, it can be done safely and easily.

Here are the basic steps for towing a 5th wheel:

Ensure you have the right equipment: You will need a truck with 5th-wheelel hitch installed. The hitch is mounted in the bed of the truck, and the trailer is attached to it. Make sure the hitch is rated for the weight of your trailer.
Connect the trailer: Back your truck up to the trailer so that the hitch is directly under the pin box on the front of the trailer. Lower the trailer onto the hitch and make sure it is securely latched.
Check the brakes and lights: Make sure the brakes and lights on the trailer are working properly before you start driving. Remove and store any wheel chocks.
Adjust your driving: Towing a 5th wheel requires some adjustments to your driving style. You will need to take turns wider and make sure you allow plenty of room for braking. You will also need to drive slower than you would without a trailer.
Practice backing up: Backing up a 5th wheel can be tricky, so it's a good idea to practice in an open area before you hit the road. Use small adjustments on the steering wheel to make sure the trailer goes where you want it to.
Be aware of your surroundings: When towing a 5th wheel, you will have a much longer and wider vehicle than you're used to. Make sure you are aware of your surroundings and avoid tight spaces and low-clearance areas.

By following these basic steps, you can safely and confidently tow your 5th wheel to your destination.

6 Red Flags When Choosing a Towing Company

2023-03-15

While most towing companies are reputable and provide good service, there are a few red flags that you should be aware of when choosing a towing company:

Lack of transparency: If a towing company is not transparent about their pricing, fees, or services, it's a sign that they may not be trustworthy. Make sure to ask for a clear breakdown of all costs upfront and get everything in writing.
Poor reviews or ratings: If a towing company has consistently poor reviews or ratings, it's best to look elsewhere. Check online review sites like Yelp, Google, or the Better Business Bureau to see what other customers have said about their experiences with the company.
Unprofessional behavior: If a towing company's employees are rude, unprofessional, or refuse to answer your questions, it's a sign that they may not be a good choice. Look for a company that is responsive, courteous, and willing to help.
Inadequate equipment or training: If a towing company's equipment is old, outdated, or poorly maintained, it's a red flag. Make sure to ask about the condition of their equipment and whether their drivers are trained and certified to handle your specific towing needs.
Unmarked or unidentifiable vehicles: If a towing company's vehicles are unmarked or unidentifiable, it's best to steer clear. Look for a company that has clearly marked and identifiable vehicles, as this is a sign that they are a legitimate business.
Pricing: Shop around

Overall, it's important to do your research and choose a reputable towing company that you can trust. By looking out for these red flags and taking the time to find a reputable company, you can ensure that your towing needs are met safely and efficiently.

How to Change a Tire

2023-03-08

Find a safe location: If you experience a flat tire while driving, it's important to find a safe place to pull over. Look for a flat and stable surface away from traffic and turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Gather the necessary tools: To change a tire, you'll need a spare tire, a lug wrench, a jack, and a wheel chock. These tools are usually located in your car's trunk or under the floor mat in the cargo area.
Loosen the lug nuts: Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire. Turn the lug nuts counterclockwise, but don't remove them completely yet.
Lift the car: Place the jack under the car in the designated spot and raise the car until the flat tire is off the ground. Make sure the car is stable before continuing.
Remove the lug nuts and flat tire: Remove the lug nuts and carefully pull the flat tire off the car.
Install the spare tire: Line up the spare tire with the wheel bolts and push it onto the wheel hub. Hand-tighten the lug nuts.
Tighten the lug nuts: Use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern, gradually tightening each one until their snug.
Lower the car: Use the jack to lower the car to the ground and remove the jack.
Tighten the lug nuts again: Use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts again in a star pattern, making sure they're fully tightened.
Check the tire pressure: Use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure in the spare tire. Make sure it's inflated to the recommended pressure.
Clean up: Put the flat tire, jack, and other tools back in your car and make sure the trunk or cargo area is secure.

Overall, a roadside tire change can be a bit of a process, but it's an important skill to know if you drive a car. If you're not comfortable changing a tire on your own, or you don't have the necessary tools, you should always call Camel Towing for help.

Tips from a Tow Truck Driver to Keep Your Vehicle Road Worthy

2023-03-01

Tip 1 - Keep up with regular maintenance:

Follow your vehicle's recommended maintenance schedule, which may include oil changes, tire rotations, and other preventative maintenance tasks. Keeping up with regular maintenance can help prevent more serious problems down the line.

Tip 2 - Check your tires regularly:

Your tires are the only part of your vehicle that makes contact with the road, so it's important to make sure they're in good condition. Check your tire pressure regularly and look for signs of wear or damage.

Tip 3 - Address issues promptly:

If you notice any issues with your vehicle, such as strange noises, warning lights, or changes in performance, address them promptly. Ignoring small problems can lead to larger and more expensive problems down the line.

Tip 4 - Practice safe driving habits:

Avoid harsh acceleration and braking, and try to avoid potholes and other hazards on the road. Safe driving habits can help prevent wear and tear on your vehicle.

Tip 5 - Keep an emergency kit in your car:

In case of an emergency, it's a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your car. This might include items like a first aid kit, a flashlight, a blanket, and some basic tools.

Tip 6 - Have your vehicle inspected before long trips:

If you're planning a long road trip, have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic beforehand to make sure everything is in good working order.

By following these tips and taking good care of your vehicle, you can help prevent breakdowns and keep your vehicle roadworthy for years to come.