Likewise, there are tow systems that can be run entirely from the inside of the truck. These in-vehicle systems are most suited for repossession and impoundment. They quickly hook the vehicle up to the bed while keeping the operator secure. This protects the operator of the vehicle from any danger the upset owner of the towed vehicle might pose. These types of tow trucks are often the most expensive, given that all of the operation of the towing apparatus is done from inside the truck. Integrated tow systems are also available for lightweight trucks.



Wrecker beds can be outfitted on every day trucks, like those from Chevy, Ford, and Dodge. Oftentimes, beds available for easy conversion onto your truck will not be the automated kind. You can find conversion kits to purchase at some specialty automotive stores, but a great place to find used boom and winch units is the classified section of a local newspaper, or craigslist. It is better to pick up your wrecker bed locally than it is to order online due to the usually quite high shipping costs. If you are interested in buying a hydraulic or automated tow unit for your truck, you will have to spend much more money than simply purchasing a kit with a boom and chains.



If you are trying to save money, buying a used unit from an older truck (or just the truck itself!) will often help you out; independent sellers will oftentimes list the prices for their tow units as obo, "or best offer." You will most likely also need to haul the tow unit yourself to a place where you can outfit your vehicle. Once you have obtained the desired materials, you can either install it yourself or take your truck and the new parts to an automotive expert so they can install the towing unit into the bed of the truck.