Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you for your patience. This channel has grown so rapidly that it is difficult for me to respond to all the comments. Rest assured, I will continue to attempt to respond to a majority of the comments when I have the opportunity. I have the business to run, family time, spiritual time, and videos to work on. I am grateful for everyone's support and appreciate your interaction. All of your comments are read even though I may not respond immediately. Let's keep it growing and I will keep it going! God bless.
Ron I know it's allot to take on. Here's a suggestion perhaps you can have others respond from time to time. Ethan/Talon/Lauren/ your parents.....whomever. God Bless
Ron Pratt I always move over and slow down for police ambulance and fire and tow trucks or anyone that's pulled over on the shoulder I wish more people would do what I do for safety and that police in my area would use their heads more and shut the roads down for tow truck operators cause you have probably had more than once where the wrecker slides on the outriggers and thank you for educating me that DEF fluid can freeze and where I live in Steinbach Manitoba in Canada I've had the temperature as low as -76 F -60 C
Ron your videos are top notch!!! Your level of professionalism shows in everything that you do. You are an excellent operator on not just one truck but your whole fleet. Talon is a great hand too! I’m a truck and heavy equipment field mechanic in Chicago with my own service truck. Whenever I need something towed I’ll have the driveshaft knocked loose and secured, sometimes the brakes caged, air fittings hooked up etc. This way when the tow truck shows up he basically can hook and book. Stay safe out there brother and keep the videos coming!!
I need to find out if this guy is hiring. you can tell a good boss. he doesn't say "I", he says "we". he doesn't stand back and watch, he helps. he is a team player. he guides his employees to become better.
I saw a comment he made about 4 months ago on another video. It said he was actually hiring and to check his FB page. 😀 Keep an eye out there for anything.
You and Talon did a wonderful job working together, I don't think that I have ever seen a truck fitted out to run on railroad tracks before, with the exception of the one that runs on the Narrow Guage Railroad tracks out here in Southwest Colorado. God Bless You and Your Family. 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
Their called a hi-railer, and all rr have and use them. Especially MOW CREW. Maintenance of way are the crews that Work on the rails, replacing them and ties
New time subscriber here. I read in the comments on another video that Talon is your son in law, and that you are teaching him. If that is being the case, what a wonderful job you are doing teaching the family business, and giving your daughter and her husband a great opportunity to carry on the family business to the next generation again, and also have themselves an income for their own family. Talon seems to be really keen (to work and learn), and already has learned a lot. He seems dedicated, and also just a gentleman... Your daughter is lucky to have him (just as he would be lucky to have her... Love is hard to find). God bless you good sir. Your work and attitude is outstanding.
Yes he is. He is a great team member for sure. He handled a cattle trailer roll over not too long ago and did a great job with that as well. God bless.
I loved watching the tables turned this episode, normally when Ron and Tallon work together, Tallon is the one struggling to find something in a belly box or storage box.
Sir. i am disabled and am home bound I enjoy your videos as a former crane owner i enjoy the technical aspect of the lifts. I had a a a large crane with a capacity of 10 tons . I am amazed at the capacity of your truck and the lifting capacity in a smaller package. god bless and keep you safe
It makes us feel like we are doing plus we can't feel the heat, the cold, wd don't get wet when it rains....just lay on your couch and let Ron do alllll the work. Thanks Ron, your great.
I used to drive a taxi van for the railroad and had times when I would be driving between trains that were rolling out of a yard, I had to fold the side mirrors in to keep them from getting torn off the van because of how close I was. I also used a Lightman Strobe light that was magnet mounted to the roof as an indicator to my location as well as a radio to talk to engineers, switchmen, and conductors. It is always a pleasure to see people who take safety seriously around these massive machines. Well done and well respected Ron.
A quick note I noticed that you verbalized the pre-existing damage and video recorded it. That is a good lesson for trainees. Always look for prior damage especially damage that was obviously caused by a previous tow. Like torn CV boots etc. Yep and always use safety chains and drag lights. You guys are awesome.
Thank you and yes, the still photos and video are great validation for the condition of the vehicle prior to hook up/recovery. I would recommend them both to any operator. God bless and take care.
MY OPINION IS YOU GUYS DO HAVE THE MOST IMPORTANT JOB FOR THE BIG TRUCK INDUSTRY. KEEP SAFE OUT THERE ON THE ROAD WAYS. HAVE GOD ON UR SIDE HE WILL BLESS YOU IN MANY WAYS. I HAVE USED MANY TOW TRUCKS BUT NON AS GOOD AS YOU ARE. GOD BLESS HAPPY TRAILS FROM SOUTHEAST TEXAS.
The Master watching the student! Another good job Ron & Talon, good to see you both working together and getting along so well. Happy belated Birthday Ethan from the UK.
great job ron on teaching talon and letting talon take the helm. talon my man your reaching new heights and from videos ive watched months before, your doing awesome man.keep up the good work guys, great team going on here.
Thanks for the reply back Ron. Not sure if you seen one of my other comments but I have a move over Facebook page for my state NY I created. I'll get the link and post it, if you guys would like to join it.
I must say one of the biggest things i miss about towing is that everyday i learned something new. As long as your willing to learn there's always new and different ways of doing things. Great job as always.
Happy Birthday Ethan !! Great job as usual Ron, cool to see Talon taking the Western Star out for a job. You must be proud of him, as his training from you is certainly visible in this video. Best to you, your family, and your crew from here in N.E. Doug @ the "ranch"
Another fantastic video!!! I see you were having fun "watching" Talon work.. (giggles loudly). I bet Talon was glad to have you there to give him pointers and some advice on an oddball truck. :) I do believe you were right about the re-organization of that poor Vulcan. The outside looks fantastic, but the behind the doors leaves a bit to be desired (according to your high standards of cleanliness in your truck). Yes, I know things get greasy and dirty (I used to strip transmissions, motors and electric motors for a hobby with my late hubby) and sometimes there's no time to clean up the tools. Maybe get everyone into the habit of cleaning stuff after each tow, unless it's after 2 am... :)(just a suggestion). I really enjoyed this installment of "A Day In the Life of Ron Pratt: Tow Truck Driver" :D
Yes, I agree I think this truck needs some attention. We get so focused on the rigs we use more frequently that this one is left out. I am glad you enjoyed the video. God bless.
Every time you or someone else pulls a vehicle I've never seen, I realize I've never thought about one of them being towed and the headaches they may cause. Lots of custom built vehicles for the jobs they are used for. It's hard to imagine how a lot of them would be towed.
As a long time professional (Retired) plumber, I'm getting sympathetic pains in my knees watching Ron and Talon crawl around in the graven bare kneed. We wear shoes on our feet. I always wore shoes on my knees. They sell really quality ones at Amazon.com. Made by California Custom Leathercraft for under $20.00 with great big wide elastic straps with Velcro on the straps. Its like crawling on pillows. Saves your back and knees too.
Looks like you need to take a day for each truck, remove everything from each compartment, clean, inventory and replace missing tools and repaint as needed. I have enjoyed watching all your videos so far, stay safe out there.
Interesting beast! Reminds me of a call out I got one morning at two-thirty AM and all they said was "Land Rover 4x4 stuck across the rail track." When I got there, it was a maintenance crew who used the vehicle which had drop-down rail wheels like that one to video lengths of track for defects, and they'd gone and got it stuck at right angles across the track and couldn't move. I got it off and helped them locate it onto the track. I got into trouble for that from the office. My detail was just to get it off the track, and any other work was to be a separate job they'd need to call in again (and get charged again!) Trying to be helpful just comes naturally!
I completely get the "just wanting to be helpful" thing. I wish more people understood that too. Why in the world would you need to do another job for another charge. Nice doesn't cost that much...Good job on going the extra distance...even if you got chewed on. I would bet you sleep better than the one who wasn't happy with you does. LOL God bless.
Hi Ron I love to see the service box truck 🚛 on your full video on you tube on the roadside assistance and I love your videos the are so good 👍 and God bless your family
Native Missourian, now in Japan, just found your videos and I wanna shake your hand when I'm back home some day. You're the epitome of how to run a company, and I can only think the monetization from UA-cam videos helps you keep your prices low and your equipment quality high! You also taught me something I don't know why I wasn't taught...tow trucks are considered emergency vehicles! I'll be Slowing Down and Moving Over once I'm back home for good. I also put up a post on my facebook about it, already one of my fellow Missourians mentioned they didn't know either! Perhaps that's why people aren't moving over! So I'll spread the word and everyone watching on UA-cam - do the same!
Wow, thank you so much for this comment. I would love to meet you when you return to Missouri. I am so glad you find the channel interesting and have learned something you can pass on. God bless you and keep you safe.
Love this type of videos. Real life situations viewed first hand. My hat is off to you and your employees for the job you do. I subscribed and will be watching more videos. God bless you too.
Agree Don't watch that HTH much anymore. I mean how many times can you watch Al & Gord back down the Coq? 😴 😴 This and Sumter Wrecker are more enjoyable. In fairness to TV shows, different format really. Trying to cram several scenarios in an hour.
That is one thing my boss could get the most upset about, a truck should be ready for who ever has to use it not missing things. You don’t know for sure till your at the scene what you need. So if the truck is equipped your set. Thanks Ron enjoyed from a vey old former dispatcher lol.
Your videos almost make me want to go back to work.Almost. I am retired but I drove a medium duty recovery truck in SoCal for 15 years. I miss the logistical challenges and the excitement but I simply cannot handle the pace anymore. You definitely know what you're doing !
I tell you what, I am 40 something....and I feel every creak and muscle in my body on a daily basis. This is a very physically challenging profession and it does take a toll. I love it and it's in my blood, but my body yells a lot. LOL God bless and thank you for watching.
Very enjoyable to watch iam always learning something new from you Ron Pratt thank you for taking your time to do the video's,May you always be watched over and kept safe.
Ron you can also use a bottle jack on the yoke to press the cap free. Its alot safer than stacking blocks and faster too. I do mine that way all the time on my 1982 PETERBILT.
T'was a nice drive thru town towards the Interstate. I even remember some of those businesses from when we visited in March of 2018. Happy belated birthday, Ethan. Great job, Talon.
Leviathan Eldigren I was trying to remember what happened there. I knew I just watched a video in that spot. He turned around on the one street to provide extra cover for the other driver, whos name escapes me right now.
Ron, it looks like you're going to have to go "military" on the whole outfit. Have them line all their trucks up with their equipment displayed for inspection so you can have all of your fleet back in order and know what your missing. Talon is doing really well, but your experience shows and it was good you were there to help and teach. Take care, and hi to all.
This is not the favored truck of the fleet as you can tell just by the videos. Nobody wants to claim her. LOL It is still great truck, but not all new and shiny. :-) Talon is doing really well, I agree. God bless.
Very fascination video as always. Many people don't realize the knowledge and logic required for safely handling and moving heavy equipment with heavy equipment meaning anything from a personal automobile to much larger equipment. This is a dangerous job that requires thinking and planning not only for your own safety but also for those nearby. You mentioned something in this particular video regarding staying back from the railroad 50-feet while a train is moving. There was a rather interesting incident that occurred many years ago not far from where I lived. The town has a commuter train station which at the time had $1.25 per day parking. Some people decided that they wanted to park for free so instead of paying the $1.25, they parked across the street on an access road into an industrial park. The access road had no parking signs along the railroad side. People were ticketed, towed, and warned, but they still parked there until one day when a train came along that churned up ballast due to something hanging off of a freight car. Yup. These people lost mirrors, windshields, hood ornaments, and lots of paint. What happened is a local freight carrying one of those plywood cars was returning empty to the nearby yard with a loose piece of strapping whipping about like a weed whacker that churning up ballast as it went by. The piece of metal strapping did a good job on the poison ivy and small shrubs too along the ROW as well, and made me pause and think about standing close to the crossing gates the next time a train passed.
Hey Ron,,, It was really great of you to stay with Talon on this old school " Bustin' out the driveshaft" lol And you didnt just desert him...goood on ya man
Great stuff as always Ron. A handy item to keep in the tool bag is zip lock baggies to put the caps and bolts in so they don't get lost or full of dirt when you have to pull the drive shaft. It sure makes putting things back together easier later on.
Hello, another good one...long too :-)..You made me laugh today. You were unable to find something in the truck " Talon uses this truck." You are well Blessed to have a wonderful son in law. Happy Birthday to Ethan ! Blessings and B Safe 59K. :-)
Never thought of using blocks under driveshaft to lower the truck to get the caps out, i usually use two blocks and a bottle jack with air fitting! Still a good job with the old school way. Union pacific is one of our major companys also on the west coast in California. And those driveshafts are one of my least favorites. Learned a few tips to make life a little easier while under these trucks from the videos. Keep up the good work!
This channel is so interesting to watch and I have learned a lot about wrecker operation. Watched one of a different channel and they are no where near the operator you guys are. Thanks
It was funny. We have a railroad mainline behind our house. Our house rumbles and shimmies when a train goes past. A train must've went by at the same time that one did because I could almost feel that train going past you out here.
37:41 You know, I heard it all the time growing up that being by a moving train was very dangerous, but you were the first person in my life to state why that was.
Good pick! I always junk hooked them (after removing the cone stacks) and then pulled an axle. I never touched press in shafts for safety reasons. Pulling the axle is messy, but if not going long distance your good to go.
Talon knew what he had to do with the drive shaft and since you explained it while he was doing it - now we understand better. A tool/accessory inventory is in order on the Vulcan. It happens. Good video and didn't need any traffic control. ☺
Thank you, he reads all the commentary as well and I sure he will be pleased. Talon and I just don't drive this one enough. All our equipment is right where we want it in the other trucks. God bless.
Talon has a very distinct and unusual sounding voice. If the vehicle recovery business goes away, he might consider a career in TV or radio. His voice might make him a very fortunate man. Not to say he isn't already fortunate.
Hi Ron. As always thanks for showing! And a very late Happy Birthday to Ethan! The phone call takes care of a question of mine about software ability to bring back the outriggers and the boom to the stowed position by the touch of a single button. I have seen a single operator erect and stow away a Liebherr MK 100 mobile crane (up to 68 meters tall on a 5 axle 14 meter frame weighting 60 tons) more or less on a push of a very few buttons. But he has to make really sure nothing is or gets in the way. Not suitable for vehicle recovery or towing though I think :) I wish you a splendid week with everybody slowing down and moving over!
mr ron I ve been watchinh you r video s for a while now just after the last one where you pulled a truck from a field and you comment was about people criticize. how you do thing .people will say anything .you do as you seen fit .you r the one that s doing it. video watcher
So glad you enjoyed it. Talon reads all the comments so I know he will be pleased. I will pass along the birthday wishes to Ethan as well. Thank you and God bless.
You didn't want that finger you have 7 more and 2 thumbs if you lost it. Just pullin your leg Ron. Although, I have cut off two fingers, but did the right first aid and saved the both of them. There's something about being an old Scoutmaster in there.. Keep your fingers they are a very important part. Later when you get to be my age [72], you'll understand that piece of sage advice. Good to see you are willing to teach small tricks in keeping everything safe, not only to Talon, but to the rest of us viewing this video. God's peace be with you always. Hugh
I got to Life when unit folded, but have had 3 Eagles while I was the Scout Master. I also got the Wood Badge Award; Dist. Award of Merit; Nose it Award [Trainer of trainers]; Assistant Dist Commissioner, Unit Commissioners Awards. Might say I'm over trained for everyone Cub through Exploring to Council Staff. Including boy and adult 30+ years Scouting. I was also Scouting Coordinator for the Mary Esther United Methodist Church 21 years, that also covers the Girl Scouts too.
This is pretty funny... As I'm watching your trek back to the shop with the truck in tow, your driving down the street and I am taking note of the sites you are passing. From your other video's I noticed that on that road after the left out of the train yard, I have seen you clear a two car accident with a white car and blue AWD vehicle. You had to get the second roll back for the second vehicle. You went around the block to get into the path of the oncoming traffic as to provide some protection for I believe it was Mike. The next video was the Muddy Pull of the Fork Truck/Machine from the mud from the construction site with the sub-station just overhead... Sweet. And... I'm getting scared... learning your area without even being there. Just watching your video's. Keep 'um coming Brother! Oh Yeah.... Happy Birthday Ethan !
Hey ron tiger tools make a heavy duty ujoint puller for those annoying pressed in ujoint works great I use it and it gets them out in 1 minute u can use it with an impact gun best investment ever it's about 250 dollars
This channel is so amazing. I learn a lot from you, Ron. I understood what you said to Talon about “getting the hammer”. It’s the insurance company’s slogan, now that’s funny right there.
I like how what was to be a short video turned into another great long video. I also loved the dash cam footage at the end. The Dash Cam should be included on most videos (at operator's discretion) if possible. Even if sped up. Keep up the great work guys, God Bless.
Hey Ron, if you do many of these and want to save some time and the risk of something bad happening with the blocks under there to your employee when you aren't watching and they cut a corner or two. Check out the tiger tool and I'm sure you have a cordless impact in those beasts. Makes short work of those press outs.
It's fun and educational to watch you guys. Why are the customers chattering while you've got a man in a dangerous place, though? Thanks, Ron and Talon. Stay safe!
Ron Happy belated birthday to Ethan. That was quite a challenge thrown at Talon, but it handled it splendidly. However might be time for a reorganization of the truck.
Happy belated birthday Ethan . hope dad didnt work you to hard on your birthday.Ron get tallon to clean up and organize that truck. LOL I fuss at my guys every week about loosing tools and keeping the truck cleaned and organized.mThe shop as well. !!!!
" HAPPY BIRTHDAY " Ethen !!!..... If I make a suggestion, make all the heavy haulers have the same location for hook-up equipment. I know' easier said then done. Just my two cents.. Ron, Thanks for taking us along. Nice hook up Talon, U-D Man...
Hi Ron, another great job, and good to see Talon leading but happy to take your advice. Quick question: Why do you need to pull the driveshaft, and do you need to do the same with cars and other vehicles? Ha, love the 'Work smarter, not harder'. I used the same quote when commanding my junior soldiers. As always, stay safe and God bless from Scotland.
I hope the Freightliner was returned to the Union Pacific quick, those hirailers are the backbone of America's railroads in maintenance and safety, and having one out service means a possible delay in traffic. Railroad professional talking here by the way
Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you for your patience. This channel has grown so rapidly that it is difficult for me to respond to all the comments. Rest assured, I will continue to attempt to respond to a majority of the comments when I have the opportunity. I have the business to run, family time, spiritual time, and videos to work on. I am grateful for everyone's support and appreciate your interaction. All of your comments are read even though I may not respond immediately. Let's keep it growing and I will keep it going! God bless.
Ron I know it's allot to take on. Here's a suggestion perhaps you can have others respond from time to time. Ethan/Talon/Lauren/ your parents.....whomever. God Bless
Ron Pratt Ujjjjh
Ron Pratt do us a favor do a walk around of the Western star
Thanks, Ron.
Ron Pratt I always move over and slow down for police ambulance and fire and tow trucks or anyone that's pulled over on the shoulder I wish more people would do what I do for safety and that police in my area would use their heads more and shut the roads down for tow truck operators cause you have probably had more than once where the wrecker slides on the outriggers and thank you for educating me that DEF fluid can freeze and where I live in Steinbach Manitoba in Canada I've had the temperature as low as -76 F -60 C
Ron your videos are top notch!!! Your level of professionalism shows in everything that you do. You are an excellent operator on not just one truck but your whole fleet. Talon is a great hand too!
I’m a truck and heavy equipment field mechanic in Chicago with my own service truck. Whenever I need something towed I’ll have the driveshaft knocked loose and secured, sometimes the brakes caged, air fittings hooked up etc. This way when the tow truck shows up he basically can hook and book. Stay safe out there brother and keep the videos coming!!
You can't help but hear the pride in your voice when Talon does well. You have trained him well.
I need to find out if this guy is hiring.
you can tell a good boss. he doesn't say "I", he says "we". he doesn't stand back and watch, he helps. he is a team player. he guides his employees to become better.
@Tony Ashford And therefore his daughter! 👍
I saw a comment he made about 4 months ago on another video. It said he was actually hiring and to check his FB page. 😀 Keep an eye out there for anything.
@Tony Ashford he also helps his other employees as well not just his son-in-law. He's just a all around good boss. Wish the world had more like him.
I Appreciate a few things here. Your teaching methods, your Calmness, and your ability to not use a single cuss. Wish I had a boss like you 😁
Thank you very much. God bless.
second that!!!
You and Talon did a wonderful job working together, I don't think that I have ever seen a truck fitted out to run on railroad tracks before, with the exception of the one that runs on the Narrow Guage Railroad tracks out here in Southwest Colorado. God Bless You and Your Family. 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
Their called a hi-railer, and all rr have and use them. Especially MOW CREW.
Maintenance of way are the crews that
Work on the rails, replacing them and ties
New time subscriber here.
I read in the comments on another video that Talon is your son in law, and that you are teaching him.
If that is being the case, what a wonderful job you are doing teaching the family business, and giving your daughter and her husband a great opportunity to carry on the family business to the next generation again, and also have themselves an income for their own family.
Talon seems to be really keen (to work and learn), and already has learned a lot. He seems dedicated, and also just a gentleman... Your daughter is lucky to have him (just as he would be lucky to have her... Love is hard to find).
God bless you good sir. Your work and attitude is outstanding.
Talon is really learning the trade. Really improving! Great job!
klyonsden He's learning fast and I could listen to him talk all day. His lil accent is adorbs.
He got a kick out of that. I just spoke to my daughter and he is smiling. God bless.
Yes he is. He is a great team member for sure. He handled a cattle trailer roll over not too long ago and did a great job with that as well. God bless.
I loved watching the tables turned this episode, normally when Ron and Tallon work together, Tallon is the one struggling to find something in a belly box or storage box.
Accent? Wheres he from?
Sir. i am disabled and am home bound I enjoy your videos as a former crane owner i enjoy the technical aspect of the lifts. I had a a a large crane with a capacity of 10 tons . I am amazed at the capacity of your truck and the lifting capacity in a smaller package. god bless and keep you safe
I don't know why these are so interesting, they just are.
Admit it, you are "hooked" LOL. God bless.
You're so punny!
seriously. I need to get to bed or i wont be rolling until tomorrow afternoon #catchagear
Especially to a 64-year-old woman - but I love them! 😁
It makes us feel like we are doing plus we can't feel the heat, the cold, wd don't get wet when it rains....just lay on your couch and let Ron do alllll the work.
Thanks Ron, your great.
Great seeing you work again and train Talon. He has come a long way under your tuteledge. God Bless.
I used to drive a taxi van for the railroad and had times when I would be driving between trains that were rolling out of a yard, I had to fold the side mirrors in to keep them from getting torn off the van because of how close I was. I also used a Lightman Strobe light that was magnet mounted to the roof as an indicator to my location as well as a radio to talk to engineers, switchmen, and conductors.
It is always a pleasure to see people who take safety seriously around these massive machines. Well done and well respected Ron.
A quick note I noticed that you verbalized the pre-existing damage and video recorded it. That is a good lesson for trainees. Always look for prior damage especially damage that was obviously caused by a previous tow. Like torn CV boots etc. Yep and always use safety chains and drag lights. You guys are awesome.
Thank you and yes, the still photos and video are great validation for the condition of the vehicle prior to hook up/recovery. I would recommend them both to any operator. God bless and take care.
MY OPINION IS YOU GUYS DO HAVE THE MOST IMPORTANT JOB FOR THE BIG TRUCK INDUSTRY. KEEP SAFE OUT THERE ON THE ROAD WAYS. HAVE GOD ON UR SIDE HE WILL BLESS YOU IN MANY WAYS. I HAVE USED MANY TOW TRUCKS BUT NON AS GOOD AS YOU ARE. GOD BLESS HAPPY TRAILS FROM SOUTHEAST TEXAS.
The Master watching the student! Another good job Ron & Talon, good to see you both working together and getting along so well. Happy belated Birthday Ethan from the UK.
We enjoy working together. We are blessed as a family and a business. I will pass along the greeting to Ethan as well. Thank you and God bless.
great job ron on teaching talon and letting talon take the helm. talon my man your reaching new heights and from videos ive watched months before, your doing awesome man.keep up the good work guys, great team going on here.
He is doing a great job for sure. He reads the comments, so I know he will see yours. Thank you and God bless.
Thanks for the reply back Ron. Not sure if you seen one of my other comments but I have a move over Facebook page for my state NY I created. I'll get the link and post it, if you guys would like to join it.
I like how you work with your guys. Everything is a teaching moment, and you are willing to step up and teach.
he's lucky to have a father n law as yourself esp to help him learn the trade of towing
Sure is. Ron is the best!
He is a keeper as well. He makes my daughter smile and works hard for us. What more could a person ask for. God bless.
Thank you and God bless.
A family that tows together stays together.
Ron you have a good son here.of course he has a great Dad to teach him the old ways of doing things.
I must say one of the biggest things i miss about towing is that everyday i learned something new. As long as your willing to learn there's always new and different ways of doing things. Great job as always.
I completely agree with that sentiment. I still learn daily and appreciate all the information and suggestions the viewers have offered. God bless.
Happy Birthday Ethan !!
Great job as usual Ron, cool to see Talon taking the Western Star out for a job.
You must be proud of him, as his training from you is certainly visible in this video.
Best to you, your family, and your crew from here in N.E.
Doug @ the "ranch"
I will pass along the birthday wishes. Talon did a great job and is a valuable asset to the crew. Thank you very much for watching and God bless.
Another fantastic video!!! I see you were having fun "watching" Talon work.. (giggles loudly). I bet Talon was glad to have you there to give him pointers and some advice on an oddball truck. :) I do believe you were right about the re-organization of that poor Vulcan. The outside looks fantastic, but the behind the doors leaves a bit to be desired (according to your high standards of cleanliness in your truck). Yes, I know things get greasy and dirty (I used to strip transmissions, motors and electric motors for a hobby with my late hubby) and sometimes there's no time to clean up the tools. Maybe get everyone into the habit of cleaning stuff after each tow, unless it's after 2 am... :)(just a suggestion). I really enjoyed this installment of "A Day In the Life of Ron Pratt: Tow Truck Driver" :D
Yes, I agree I think this truck needs some attention. We get so focused on the rigs we use more frequently that this one is left out. I am glad you enjoyed the video. God bless.
Every time you or someone else pulls a vehicle I've never seen, I realize I've never thought about one of them being towed and the headaches they may cause. Lots of custom built vehicles for the jobs they are used for. It's hard to imagine how a lot of them would be towed.
Each day brings new challenges and new opportunities for me to think outside the box. God bless.
As a long time professional (Retired) plumber, I'm getting sympathetic pains in my knees watching Ron and Talon crawl around in the graven bare kneed. We wear shoes on our feet. I always wore shoes on my knees. They sell really quality ones at Amazon.com. Made by California Custom Leathercraft for under $20.00 with great big wide elastic straps with Velcro on the straps. Its like crawling on pillows. Saves your back and knees too.
Looks like you need to take a day for each truck, remove everything from each compartment, clean, inventory and replace missing tools and repaint as needed. I have enjoyed watching all your videos so far, stay safe out there.
Interesting beast! Reminds me of a call out I got one morning at two-thirty AM and all they said was "Land Rover 4x4 stuck across the rail track." When I got there, it was a maintenance crew who used the vehicle which had drop-down rail wheels like that one to video lengths of track for defects, and they'd gone and got it stuck at right angles across the track and couldn't move. I got it off and helped them locate it onto the track. I got into trouble for that from the office. My detail was just to get it off the track, and any other work was to be a separate job they'd need to call in again (and get charged again!) Trying to be helpful just comes naturally!
that is just good customer service do do that.
I completely get the "just wanting to be helpful" thing. I wish more people understood that too. Why in the world would you need to do another job for another charge. Nice doesn't cost that much...Good job on going the extra distance...even if you got chewed on. I would bet you sleep better than the one who wasn't happy with you does. LOL God bless.
Boy he's really.carfull. Don't want anybody getting hurt or insurance claims on his watch Glad your teaching everybody that's watching. good on ya.
Hi Ron I love to see the service box truck 🚛 on your full video on you tube on the roadside assistance and I love your videos the are so good 👍 and God bless your family
Native Missourian, now in Japan, just found your videos and I wanna shake your hand when I'm back home some day. You're the epitome of how to run a company, and I can only think the monetization from UA-cam videos helps you keep your prices low and your equipment quality high! You also taught me something I don't know why I wasn't taught...tow trucks are considered emergency vehicles! I'll be Slowing Down and Moving Over once I'm back home for good. I also put up a post on my facebook about it, already one of my fellow Missourians mentioned they didn't know either! Perhaps that's why people aren't moving over! So I'll spread the word and everyone watching on UA-cam - do the same!
Wow, thank you so much for this comment. I would love to meet you when you return to Missouri. I am so glad you find the channel interesting and have learned something you can pass on. God bless you and keep you safe.
Love this type of videos. Real life situations viewed first hand. My hat is off to you and your employees for the job you do. I subscribed and will be watching more videos. God bless you too.
“Ladies and gentlemen. This week on Recovery with big Ron “. I’d rather watch this then highway thru hell.
Agree Don't watch that HTH much anymore. I mean how many times can you watch Al & Gord back down the Coq? 😴 😴 This and Sumter Wrecker are more enjoyable. In fairness to TV shows, different format really. Trying to cram several scenarios in an hour.
That is one thing my boss could get the most upset about, a truck should be ready for who ever has to use it not missing things. You don’t know for sure till your at the scene what you need. So if the truck is equipped your set. Thanks Ron enjoyed from a vey old former dispatcher lol.
Your videos almost make me want to go back to work.Almost. I am retired but I drove a medium duty recovery truck in SoCal for 15 years. I miss the logistical challenges and the excitement but I simply cannot handle the pace anymore.
You definitely know what you're doing !
I tell you what, I am 40 something....and I feel every creak and muscle in my body on a daily basis. This is a very physically challenging profession and it does take a toll. I love it and it's in my blood, but my body yells a lot. LOL God bless and thank you for watching.
I respect a man who isn't afraid to ask for advice . It shows he had a good teacher to begin with . Respect to you Talon if a little late .Darren UK
Absolutely, there is always room for ALL of us to learn every day. God bless.
Very enjoyable to watch iam always learning something new from you Ron Pratt thank you for taking your time to do the video's,May you always be watched over and kept safe.
Thank you so much and God bless.
If you hit the dumpster behind your local carpet store, you can usually find a scrap or two of carpet. Works great to keep you off the gravel/mud.
Ron is such a great boss and mentor to all his workers
Ron you can also use a bottle jack on the yoke to press the cap free. Its alot safer than stacking blocks and faster too. I do mine that way all the time on my 1982 PETERBILT.
the push and pull tools work nice, no need for blocks or bottle jack and less risk of bending driveshaft if you get overzealous on the lowering button
T'was a nice drive thru town towards the Interstate. I even remember some of those businesses from when we visited in March of 2018. Happy belated birthday, Ethan. Great job, Talon.
Hi Ron hope all is well. Sure glad you do these. I learn a lot. God bless you.
Ron you have a fan club. I think Talon is getting one, too. He sure is learning his trade.
Wicked Video as always Ron. Hats off to you and Talon for doing such awesome work !
We make a pretty good team. Thank you and God bless.
That tow was right next to where the two car accident was a while back! I recognized the mobile homes there!!
Leviathan Eldigren I was trying to remember what happened there. I knew I just watched a video in that spot. He turned around on the one street to provide extra cover for the other driver, whos name escapes me right now.
nice to see a mow truck up close maintenance of way this truck inspects the tracks and replaces any thing wrong with the track
I see..just never thought about the upper bearings like that...probably found out the hard way...thank you. ..have a great day..a be safe..
Ron, it looks like you're going to have to go "military" on the whole outfit. Have them line all their trucks up with their equipment displayed for inspection so you can have all of your fleet back in order and know what your missing. Talon is doing really well, but your experience shows and it was good you were there to help and teach. Take care, and hi to all.
This is not the favored truck of the fleet as you can tell just by the videos. Nobody wants to claim her. LOL It is still great truck, but not all new and shiny. :-) Talon is doing really well, I agree. God bless.
Very fascination video as always. Many people don't realize the knowledge and logic required for safely handling and moving heavy equipment with heavy equipment meaning anything from a personal automobile to much larger equipment. This is a dangerous job that requires thinking and planning not only for your own safety but also for those nearby.
You mentioned something in this particular video regarding staying back from the railroad 50-feet while a train is moving. There was a rather interesting incident that occurred many years ago not far from where I lived. The town has a commuter train station which at the time had $1.25 per day parking. Some people decided that they wanted to park for free so instead of paying the $1.25, they parked across the street on an access road into an industrial park. The access road had no parking signs along the railroad side. People were ticketed, towed, and warned, but they still parked there until one day when a train came along that churned up ballast due to something hanging off of a freight car.
Yup. These people lost mirrors, windshields, hood ornaments, and lots of paint. What happened is a local freight carrying one of those plywood cars was returning empty to the nearby yard with a loose piece of strapping whipping about like a weed whacker that churning up ballast as it went by. The piece of metal strapping did a good job on the poison ivy and small shrubs too along the ROW as well, and made me pause and think about standing close to the crossing gates the next time a train passed.
"Boy you couldn't have called that any closer." Seems Talon has gotten REAL comfortable with handling that truck.
Hey Ron,,, It was really great of you to stay with Talon on this old school " Bustin' out the driveshaft" lol
And you didnt just desert him...goood on ya man
Great stuff as always Ron. A handy item to keep in the tool bag is zip lock baggies to put the caps and bolts in so they don't get lost or full of dirt when you have to pull the drive shaft. It sure makes putting things back together easier later on.
Good thinking. God bless.
Hello, another good one...long too :-)..You made me laugh today. You were unable to find something in the truck " Talon uses this truck." You are well Blessed to have a wonderful son in law. Happy Birthday to Ethan ! Blessings and B Safe 59K. :-)
Never thought of using blocks under driveshaft to lower the truck to get the caps out, i usually use two blocks and a bottle jack with air fitting! Still a good job with the old school way. Union pacific is one of our major companys also on the west coast in California. And those driveshafts are one of my least favorites. Learned a few tips to make life a little easier while under these trucks from the videos. Keep up the good work!
So glad you found the content valuable and I appreciate your positive comments. God bless.
This channel is so interesting to watch and I have learned a lot about wrecker operation. Watched one of a different channel and they are no where near the operator you guys are. Thanks
It was funny. We have a railroad mainline behind our house. Our house rumbles and shimmies when a train goes past. A train must've went by at the same time that one did because I could almost feel that train going past you out here.
Love watching all the different things you have to tow in. safety first
Thanks for watching and God bless.
37:41 You know, I heard it all the time growing up that being by a moving train was very dangerous, but you were the first person in my life to state why that was.
Ron thank you for sharing with us GOD bless everyone, from Kentucky
Man, that is some tough work. This was one job where you couldn't make it look easy. Much respect.
Thank you and God bless.
Good pick! I always junk hooked them (after removing the cone stacks) and then pulled an axle. I never touched press in shafts for safety reasons. Pulling the axle is messy, but if not going long distance your good to go.
I think the V70 needs an inventory of its kit done and a tidy up of the lockers Ron...Good video my friend... God bless sir.....
Yes I believe you are correct. I don't ever drive this one anymore, so it is a bit neglected with the clean up. God bless.
Talon knew what he had to do with the drive shaft and since you explained it while he was doing it - now we understand better.
A tool/accessory inventory is in order on the Vulcan. It happens.
Good video and didn't need any traffic control. ☺
Thank you, he reads all the commentary as well and I sure he will be pleased. Talon and I just don't drive this one enough. All our equipment is right where we want it in the other trucks. God bless.
Ron Pratt is the owner and really has the fantastic equipment.
Happy Birthday Ethan learns the trade and you will one-day own all that great stuff.
Thank you and I will pass along the birthday wishes to him. God bless.
I knew from the get you’d comment on the organization of Talons truck! Haha
Hey, You and Talon are the real movers and shakers in my book!
Talon has a very distinct and unusual sounding voice. If the vehicle recovery business goes away, he might consider a career in TV or radio. His voice might make him a very fortunate man. Not to say he isn't already fortunate.
I really enjoy your videos. Thank you for taking the time to share them with us.
Thank you for watching and God bless.
Great Video Ron … Your son is already a pro … God Bless you; your family and your business...
Hi Ron. As always thanks for showing!
And a very late Happy Birthday to Ethan!
The phone call takes care of a question of mine about software ability to bring back the outriggers and the boom to the stowed position by the touch of a single button. I have seen a single operator erect and stow away a Liebherr MK 100 mobile crane (up to 68 meters tall on a 5 axle 14 meter frame weighting 60 tons) more or less on a push of a very few buttons. But he has to make really sure nothing is or gets in the way. Not suitable for vehicle recovery or towing though I think :)
I wish you a splendid week with everybody slowing down and moving over!
Thank you so much for watching and the birthday wishes for Ethan. I will certainly pass that along. God bless.
Great Job Team Midwest, always learning something new with these videos...Luv it . Be Safe out there and God Bless
Thank you and God bless you friend.
mr ron I ve been watchinh you r video s for a while now just after the last one where you pulled a truck from a field and you comment was about people criticize. how you do thing .people will say anything .you do as you seen fit .you r the one that s doing it. video watcher
Great Job Talon. I couldn't of done it better myself. lol Another great coffee video. Thanks Ron and Happy Belated Birthday Ethan. God Bless
So glad you enjoyed it. Talon reads all the comments so I know he will be pleased. I will pass along the birthday wishes to Ethan as well. Thank you and God bless.
You didn't want that finger you have 7 more and 2 thumbs if you lost it. Just pullin your leg Ron. Although, I have cut off two fingers, but did the right first aid and saved the both of them. There's something about being an old Scoutmaster in there.. Keep your fingers they are a very important part. Later when you get to be my age [72], you'll understand that piece of sage advice. Good to see you are willing to teach small tricks in keeping everything safe, not only to Talon, but to the rest of us viewing this video. God's peace be with you always. Hugh
Thank you and Yes Sir, I am a bit partial to my fingers. I am an Eagle Scout as well. God bless.
I got to Life when unit folded, but have had 3 Eagles while I was the Scout Master. I also got the Wood Badge Award; Dist. Award of Merit; Nose it Award [Trainer of trainers]; Assistant Dist Commissioner, Unit Commissioners Awards. Might say I'm over trained for everyone Cub through Exploring to Council Staff. Including boy and adult 30+ years Scouting. I was also Scouting Coordinator for the Mary Esther United Methodist Church 21 years, that also covers the Girl Scouts too.
This is pretty funny... As I'm watching your trek back to the shop with the truck in tow, your driving down the street and I am taking note of the sites you are passing. From your other video's I noticed that on that road after the left out of the train yard, I have seen you clear a two car accident with a white car and blue AWD vehicle. You had to get the second roll back for the second vehicle. You went around the block to get into the path of the oncoming traffic as to provide some protection for I believe it was Mike. The next video was the Muddy Pull of the Fork Truck/Machine from the mud from the construction site with the sub-station just overhead... Sweet. And... I'm getting scared... learning your area without even being there. Just watching your video's. Keep 'um coming Brother! Oh Yeah.... Happy Birthday Ethan !
You should do a video on restocking the older trucks
I should...kill two birds with one stone. Clean up that mess and get a video at the same time. Brilliant!!! God bless.
@@RonPratt Had me gritting my teeth seeing missing work items. My husband drives me crazy moving and losing things. 😬😡
Hey ron tiger tools make a heavy duty ujoint puller for those annoying pressed in ujoint works great I use it and it gets them out in 1 minute u can use it with an impact gun best investment ever it's about 250 dollars
I had the same style driveshaft to remove. Used a forklift to pull to one side, then the other to remove the caps.
This channel is so amazing. I learn a lot from you, Ron. I understood what you said to Talon about “getting the hammer”. It’s the insurance company’s slogan, now that’s funny right there.
I like how what was to be a short video turned into another great long video. I also loved the dash cam footage at the end. The Dash Cam should be included on most videos (at operator's discretion) if possible. Even if sped up. Keep up the great work guys, God Bless.
Thank you and so glad you like the addition. God bless.
Wow! There's a lot to get right before you can safely tow. Don't know how you manage to keep everything straight, Ron. But, you always do.
Habit is all I can say because I sure can't remember what I am suppose to get at the grocery store. LOL God bless.
Hey Ron, if you do many of these and want to save some time and the risk of something bad happening with the blocks under there to your employee when you aren't watching and they cut a corner or two. Check out the tiger tool and I'm sure you have a cordless impact in those beasts. Makes short work of those press outs.
It's fun and educational to watch you guys. Why are the customers chattering while you've got a man in a dangerous place, though?
Thanks, Ron and Talon. Stay safe!
Thank you and God bless.
Talon is doing a great job. You are an amazing instructor.
He is doing a great job. Thank you and God bless.
I really like the dash cam. It gives us a better view of what is going on.
Ron Happy belated birthday to Ethan. That was quite a challenge thrown at Talon, but it handled it splendidly. However might be time for a reorganization of the truck.
I will share the greeting with Ethan. Yes Talon did a great job. No one wants to reorganize that truck....go figure. LOL God bless.
I know how that goes. Perhaps that can be a special project/teaching lesson for Ethan. God Bless
Happy belated birthday Ethan . hope dad didnt work you to hard on your birthday.Ron get tallon to clean up and organize that truck. LOL I fuss at my guys every week about loosing tools and keeping the truck cleaned and organized.mThe shop as well. !!!!
Great Job Gentleman..*Happy Belated Birthday Ethan*
Be safe out there..
Thank you and I will share your birthday wishes. God bless.
I can see why you like that truck of yours a lot better :) thanks very much :) I like that Talon checked that you were clear.
Love the old Clark IT40 setting in front of your shop...
Its awesome to see a young man like talon with respect like he does keep it up talon
Happy belated birthday Ethan. Hope you had a good one.
" HAPPY BIRTHDAY " Ethen !!!..... If I make a suggestion, make all the heavy haulers have the same location for hook-up equipment. I know' easier said then done. Just my two cents.. Ron, Thanks for taking us along. Nice hook up Talon, U-D Man...
Correction = " If I may make a suggestion " My BAD.....
No problem. I will give Ethan the message. Thanks for sticking with me. God bless.
Just don't lose the roller bearings Talon.
Hi Ron, another great job, and good to see Talon leading but happy to take your advice. Quick question: Why do you need to pull the driveshaft, and do you need to do the same with cars and other vehicles? Ha, love the 'Work smarter, not harder'. I used the same quote when commanding my junior soldiers.
As always, stay safe and God bless from Scotland.
I hope the Freightliner was returned to the Union Pacific quick, those hirailers are the backbone of America's railroads in maintenance and safety, and having one out service means a possible delay in traffic. Railroad professional talking here by the way
I agree with ya ron that truck needs some rearranging and cleanup
Great Job as always. Talon seems so calm.
Hey Ron the return to home function is a great idea!
How polite are you guys! Love the videos greetings from scotland
You should have a million subscribers as good as your vids are. One of the few channels i can watch with my 2yo and 4yo.
Thank you very much. Family friendly is totally what I go for. I am so glad you enjoy it. God bless.
Ron: "Hey Talon! Why you dragging that chain?" Talon: "Ever try pushing one?"
Happy Birthday Ethan.
He says, "Thank you". God bless.