Jason Raunikar

Keep Your Equipment Ready for the Next Winter

After a long, punishing winter, your plows and spreaders deserve more than just a corner in the garage. They’ve been through heavy use, corrosive materials, and freezing temperatures, and without proper off-season care, they’ll be more likely to fail when the next snowstorm hits. 

Just look at the numbers: in one winter season, the Minnesota Department of Transportation used over 140,000 tons of salt, 14,000 tons of sand, and 12 million gallons of brine, all materials known to accelerate corrosion on metal, rubber, and electrical components. Whether you manage a municipal fleet or run your own rig, off-season maintenance isn’t optional.

Explore our snow and ice equipment here to find the right tools for your fleet.

1. Wash and Dry Thoroughly

Before you do anything else, give your plows and spreaders a deep clean. Salt, deicing chemicals, and road grime cling to every surface, and if left alone, they will eat away at paint, metal, and wiring.

Checklist:

• Wash all surfaces with clean water and a mild degreaser
• Pay special attention to hard-to-reach areas around the spreader chute and plow frame
• Don’t forget the vehicle undercarriage if mounted
• Allow to air-dry for 48-72 hours before moving to storage
• If needed, use compressed air to remove moisture from tight joints and pivots

2. Inspect and Maintain Hydraulic Systems

Hydraulic failure is one of the most common causes of downtime at the start of winter, and most of it can be prevented.

Why it matters: Off-season sun and heat can cause cracking in hoses and seals. Idle systems can develop air pockets, leading to condensation and corrosion inside the lines. 

Action Steps:

• Inspect hoses, fittings, and cylinders for cracks, wear, or leaks
• Top off hydraulic fluid to reduce air gaps where moisture can form
• Fully extend and retract pistons, then coat exposed rod with anti-corrosion grease
• Every 2-3 weeks, run your plow/spreader briefly to keep seals lubricated

3. Protect Electrical Components

Even a fully functional plow is useless if a corroded wire stops it from turning on. Electrical issues are notoriously common in snow equipment, and almost all are avoidable.

Best Practices:

• Clean off dust and grime from all connection points
• Apply dielectric grease to plugs, terminals, and fuses to repel moisture
• Check the vehicle battery, lights, and relays
• Test everything now, not the morning of your first job

4. Grease and Lubricate All Moving Parts

Pivot points, hinges, pins, and springs need lubrication to stay operational, especially after sitting idle through hot, humid months.

Where to Lubricate:

• All plow pivot points and springs
• Spreaders’ motor shafts and chain drives
• Hinges, latch mechanisms, and slide tracks
• Grease fittings on the plow frame and A-frame assembly

Use a high-quality, cold-weather-compatible grease for best results.

5. Touch Up Paint and Address Surface Damage

Minor chips in the paint today turn into major rust spots next season. Take time to inspect your equipment for cosmetic damage before storage.

Maintenance Tips:

• Remove rust with a wire brush or rotary tool
• Apply OEM touch-up paint or corrosion-resistant spray paint to exposed metal
• Don’t just paint over rust, prep the surface first for long-term protection

6. Store Equipment Properly

Storage is just as important as any maintenance job. Improper storage creates a perfect environment for moisture, UV damage, and rodent activity.

Best Practices:

• Store plows and spreaders in a dry, well-ventilated shelter
• Avoid tarps that trap humidity; use breathable covers if needed
• Keep equipment off dirt by elevating it
• Stay away from salt stockpiles, which release corrosive vapors
• Clear any debris nearby that could invite rust or pest damage

The Work You Do Now Pays Off Later

Winter will be back before you know it, and when it hits, your customers (or community) are counting on you. A plow that won’t lift, a corroded spreader, or a dead electrical connection can delay service, cause expensive repairs, and hurt your reputation.

By spending just a few hours this off-season inspecting, lubricating, and storing your plows and spreaders correctly, you’ll start next season with peace of mind and equipment that performs like it should.

Trusted Parts and Support from Henderson

At New England TruckMaster, we proudly support Henderson equipment, the trusted name in snowplows, spreaders, and ice control products. Using genuine Henderson parts ensures: 

• Maximum equipment longevity
• Better corrosion resistance and durability
• Reliable hydraulic and electrical components

Explore Henderson products or contact us to learn more.

Your Source for Tow Trucks, Wreckers, and Snow Equipment

When it comes to purchasing, outfitting, or maintaining a tow truck or snow & ice vehicle, you want a partner that understands the equipment, and the environment. That’s where New England TruckMaster comes in.

We specialize in light-, medium-, and heavy-duty wreckers, flatbeds, and custom built recovery trucks, all designed to meet the challenges of your operation, whether you’re working narrow city streets, navigating tough weather, or servicing long-distance highway routes. 

Here’s why customers across New England, and the country, trust us to deliver the vehicles and support they need to get the job done. 

Built for the Real Work You Do

Tow trucks are your revenue generators, your emergency lifelines, and your daily drivers. That’s why we offer: 

Full Spectrum of Tow Trucks

Whether you’re looking for a light-duty rollback, medium-duty wrecker, or heavy-duty rotator, we’ve got you covered with the most respected names in the industry:

• Proud authorized dealer for Miller Industries brands: Century, Chevron, Holmes, Vulcan
• Top accessories: TowMate, In The Ditch, B/A Products, Whelen, and more

From a single order to a custom build, we match the right truck to your recovery needs and operational requirements. 

Customization & Equipment That’s Region-Ready

Our team works with you to build or source purpose-built trucks that can handle harsh winters, tight city zones, and compliance requirements across different states. Whether you’re in Boston, Buffalo, or Boise, we’ll get you a rig that works.

Snow & Ice Control Equipment

In addition to wreckers, we also provide plow trucks, salt spreaders, and snow equipment built for municipalities and commercial contractors. Our inventory is hand-picked for reliability during long seasons of snow and ice. 

Why Choose New England TruckMaster?

Plenty of dealers can sell you a tow truck. But when it comes to expertise, inventory, and support, here’s what sets us apart:

We’re Specialists, Not Just Sellers

We focus on tow trucks, wreckers, recovery equipment, and snow vehicles, not a wide mix of unrelated trucks. That means you get deep industry knowledge and technical support from a team that lives and breathes this work. 

Coast-to-Coast Capability

While we’re baked in the Northeast, we’ve shipped wreckers and recovery vehicles to customers across the U.S. We’ll help you find the right truck and coordinate delivery wherever you operate. 

Part of the DeVivo Family of Brands

New England TruckMaster is proud to be part of DeVivo companies, a group of specialized brands serving the full lifecycle of commercial vehicles.

When you buy from us, you’re backed by a one-stop network of trusted solutions:

• DeVivo Bus Sales – New and used buses for schools, transit, and shuttles
• DeVivo Parts & Service – OEM and aftermarket parts, plus mobile and in-shop service
• DeVivo Collision Centers – Large vehicle body and paint repairs (including rotators, trailers, and buses)
• Thermo King Northeast – Climate-controlled transport solutions and trailer refrigeration
• Penguin Trailer – Refrigerated trailers for catering, florists, events, and emergency use
• Northeast Tool Distributors – Commercial-grade tools for fleets, mechanics, and technicians

Ready to Find the Right Truck?

If you’re looking for New England tow trucks that work as hard as you do, backed by deep product knowledge and a commitment to getting you the right fit, New England TruckMaster is the partner you’ve been looking for.

Browse our inventory or contact us.

You rely on your wrecker to run your towing business, so you know it’s more than just a truck. It’s the backbone of the business. But, just like any piece of heavy-duty equipment, a wrecker requires consistent, smart maintenance to perform at its best and last for years. 

What Maintenance Does a Tow Truck Need?

Tow trucks operate under high stress. Demands, like hauling vehicles, recovering wrecks, and navigating tough road and weather conditions, make regular maintenance critical for performance, safety, and lifespan.

Luckily, extending the life of your tow truck doesn’t require anything fancy. It’s about following manufacturer recommendations and staying ahead of problems with smart upkeep.

1. Don’t Over-Maintain Your Wrecker

Contrary to popular belief, more maintenance isn’t always better. Some operators may change oil every 2,000 miles, which adds cost without any added benefit.

How Often Should You Service a Wrecker?

Most wreckers follow standard service intervals of around every 5,000 miles for oil and filter changes, unless they are operating under extreme conditions. Over-servicing, like changing oil too frequently or topping off fluids too often, can lead to wasted time and higher costs.

Instead of guessing, follow the manufacturers maintenance schedule and adjust based on your wrecker’s workload and age.

2. Perform Regular Inspections

Routine inspections are your first line of defense. A quick daily inspection can prevent major issues down the road, especially when it comes to hydraulic systems, towing attachments, and rigging hardware.

According to OSHA guidelines, rigging equipment must be inspected before each shift and must not exceed its rated safe working load.

What to Inspect:

• Hydraulic systems for leaks
• Lifting arms and winches for wear
• Tow straps and hooks for fraying
• Bolts and fasteners for looseness

3. Lubricate Moving Parts Frequently

Tow trucks rely on moving parts that endure heavy friction. Keep them lubricated to reduce wear, prevent rust, and ensure smooth operation.

Target These Parts:

• Winches
• Snatch blocks
• Ratchets
• Pivot points on the boom and underlift

Use lubricants approved by your equipment manufacturer and apply them on the schedule provided in your owner’s manual.

4. Maintain Tires and Brakes

Your tire and brake system do more than just ensure safe driving, they also affect how well your wrecker performs under load.

Tire Tips:

• Check tire pressure before every job
• Rotate tires regularly to extend tread life
• Replace tires when the tread drops below safe limits

Brake Maintenance:

• Inspect brake pads, discs, and fluids monthly
• Replace pads when worn and flush brake fluid as needed
• Listen for grinding or squealing

5. Care for the Battery

Wrecker batteries power lights, indicators, and more. A dead or corroded battery can delay service calls and damage electrical components. 

Battery Maintenance Tips:

• Test the charge monthly
• Clean terminal connections
• Securely mount the battery
• Replace if sluggish during starts

6. Clean After Every Use

This often gets overlooked, but it matters. Especially if you’ve been in salt, mud, or industrial environments.

Focus Areas:

• Snatch blocks (remove debris and apply lubricant)
• Chains, ratchets, and lifting gear
• Exterior surfaces prone to rust and corrosion

A clean truck is a longer-lasting truck. And it leaves a better impression on customers.

7. Invest in Quality Equipment

While it may be tempting to save on lower-cost accessories, investing in high-quality heavy-duty towing equipment pays off over time. It reduces the risk of failure in the field and extends the service life of your wrecker.

Tips to Make Your Tow Truck Last Longer

Wrecker downtime hurts your bottom line. By following these tow truck maintenance tips, you’ll: 

• Increase your truck’s lifespan
• Improve on-the-job performance
• Avoid unnecessary repairs
• Keep your drivers safe

Whether you run a light-duty rollback or a heavy-duty rotator, maintenance doesn’t have to be complicated. Stick to a smart schedule, use the right products, and inspect your equipment regularly.

Need Sales or Support?

New England TruckMaster is here to help with tow truck parts, wrecker sales, and custom builds. Contact us today or view our inventory.

Whether you’re building a towing fleet or just need to understand what type of tow truck will suit your needs, knowing the difference between heavy-duty vs light-duty wreckers is critical. These two classes of wreckers serve specific purposes, handle different weight ranges, and operate unique equipment. 

At New England TruckMaster, we sell and support all classes of wreckers and tow trucks.

What Is a Light-Duty Wrecker?

Light-duty wreckers are designed to tow smaller vehicles, like:

• Passenger cars
• Motorcycles
• SUVs
• Pickup trucks under 10,000 lbs

These tow trucks are compact and highly maneuverable, ideal for navigating tight city streets, busy parking lots, or quick roadside recoveries. Most light-duty wreckers use wheel-lift or flatbed systems to secure and transport vehicles.

Key Features of Light-Duty Tow Trucks

• Up to 10,000 lbs
• Easy handling in urban and suburban environments
• Faster dispatch and response times
• Lower fuel and maintenance costs

Light-duty wreckers are the workhorses of many towing fleets, especially in areas with high vehicle density.

What Is a Heavy-Duty Wrecker?

Heavy-duty wreckers are engineered for the tough jobs. These trucks can haul massive loads and perform complex recovery operations. They’re built to handle:

• Semi-trucks and tractor trailers
• Dump trucks and garbage trucks
• RVs, buses, and construction equipment
• Rolled-over or severely damaged vehicles

These wreckers feature hydraulic booms, winches, and underlift systems capable of pulling and lifting extreme weights, even in poor weather or terrain conditions. 

Key Features of Heavy-Duty Tow Trucks

• Tow capacity: 26,000 lbs and up
• Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings (GVWR) often exceed 50,000 lbs
• Advanced equipment for recovery and transport
• Ideal for long-distance or off-road towing
• Higher cost and specialized operator training required

Light-Duty vs Heavy-Duty Wreckers Comparison

When to Use Light-Duty Towing

Choose a light-duty wrecker when:

• You’re towing compact or mid-size vehicles
• The tow will be short distance
• You need fast roadside response in a congested area
• You’re building a  cost-efficient fleet for general use

When to Use Heavy-Duty Towing

Go with a heavy-duty wrecker when:

• You’re recovering or transporting commercial vehicles
• Long-distance hauls are required
• The load exceeds 26,000 lbs
• Specialized winching, lifting, or off-road recovery is needed

Choosing the Right Wrecker for Your Fleet

When building or expanding your towing operation, ask:

• What types of vehicles do you tow most often?
• Are you serving residential, commercial, or industrial areas?
• Do you need versatility or specialization?
• Can your team support the cost and training needs of heavy-duty equipment?

If you’re unsure, a mixed fleet of light and heavy-duty wreckers might be the most flexible solution.

Get Expert Help at New England TruckMaster

At New England TruckMaster, we stock light-, and heavy-duty wreckers from industry-leading brands. Whether you’re outfitting a new fleet or upgrading your current trucks, our experienced team can help you choose the right equipment based on your needs and budget.

Need help choosing the right wrecker? Contact our team today or browse our tow truck inventory.

FAQs

What’s the main difference between a light-duty and heavy-duty wrecker?

Light-duty wreckers tow smaller vehicles (under 10,000 lbs), while heavy-duty wreckers tow larger commercial or industrial vehicles (over 26,000 lbs).

Is heavy-duty towing more expensive?

Yes, due to higher fuel usage, more complex equipment, and skilled labor requirements.

Can a light-duty truck tow a box truck?

Not safely. Box trucks typically require a medium- or heavy-duty tow truck.