Freeing stuck vehicles is a common thing in the agricultural world. Maybe you are rolling a newly planted pasture and got a little too close to that wet spot you knew was there, but thought you had it. Or maybe you’re out hog hunting and that rut was a little deeper than last time. These scenarios might ring a little too true for some of you. Either way, we’ve all likely been in a vehicle recover situation. But these situations, if not done properly, can lead to disastrous results.

First keep in mind there is a great difference between towing a vehicle and pulling/freeing a stuck vehicle. Towing usually means you ran out of fuel, or something mechanical is wrong. And so you need a tow. The towing vehicle needs to only apply enough force to move the weight of the broken down vehicle. (Don’t forget to put the transmission into neutral.) But pulling or freeing a stuck vehicle means you must not only pull the vehicle’s weight, but mire resistance (how deep the tires are buried) and gradient resistance (how far up the vehicle must be lifted). This quickly adds up to needing a lot of force.

You also need to keep your equipment in mind. Are you using a chain, snatch rope, webbing? Are you attached with hooks, clevis, or knots? Some of these choices could have life threatening impacts. Purdue University Extension has published a terrific document on the ins and outs of freeing a stuck vehicle whether it’s a truck, trailer, or tractor. No matter what level of experience you have, there’s something to be gleaned out of the publication for everyone.

Please go to https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/PPP/PPP-98.pdf for more information about freeing stuck vehicles.

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