Tugs, Tow Tractors and Pushers

Tugs, tow tractors and pushers are used to move rolling items. They are wheeled, self-propelled, and capable of moving heavy loads. Specifications for tugs, tow tractors and pushers include gross vehicle weight, dimensions, and draw bar pull. Gross vehicle weight is measured in either pounds (lbs) or kilograms (kg) and is one of the most parameters to consider. Physical Dimensions for tugs, tow tractors and pushers include: length, width, height to fender, height to cab, and height to hood. Wheelbase, ground clearance, and outside turning radius are also important considerations. Most tugs, two tractors and pushers use gasoline or diesel fuel. Electric vehicles with rechargeable batteries are also commonly available. Tow tractor engines are specified in terms of peak torque and horsepower. Vehicle transmissions carry specifications such as the number of forward speeds and the number of reverse speeds.

Tugs, tow tractors and pushers differ in terms of features, approvals, and applications. Standard product features may include: removable ballast weights, multi-passenger seating, adjustable seat belts, left and right turn signals, brake lights, tail lights, four wheel drive (4WD), sloped fenders, windshield wipers, heaters, side mirrors, defrosters, and interior lights. Optional features may include: custom paint finishes, winterization protection, flashing or rotating beacons, sliding doors or windows, front and rear coupler lights, intercom jacks, and emergency shutdown capabilities. Many tugs, two tractors and pushers bear the CE Mark and are manufactured by companies that are ISO 9001 registered. They are used as ground support equipment for airports and to move cargo for commercial and industrial applications.

Towbarless tractors can be used with small to mid-size aircraft. These tugs, tow tractors and pushers place less stress on a plane’s nose and are faster than conventional towing attachment systems such as airport tow tractors. Integrated oversteer alerting devices provide added safety in airport and military environments. Typically, towbarless tractors use fewer hydraulic cylinders than other industrial vehicles and may feature a hydrostatic drive for better performance. These tugs, two tractors and pushers may also include a liquid crystal display (LCD) that provides the operator with graphical vehicle diagnostics, errors, and warnings. As with conventional towing tractors, selecting towbarless tractors requires an analysis of electrical, braking, steering, and transmission specifications.

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