Importance

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Abstract

A tractor dolly assembly is disclosed for use with a semi tractor or other vehicle to be towed in either a forward or reverse direction. The tractor dolly assembly is configured to be coupled to the rear frame of a semi tractor or other vehicle and lift the rear wheels off the ground for towing. In a forward tow direction, a conventional tow truck with a hydraulically operated boom for lifting the front of the semi tractor off the ground. In a reverse direction, virtually any truck with a pintle or other means for connection to a tow bar can be used for towing the disabled vehicle. In accordance with an important aspect of the invention, the tractor dolly assembly is provided with self steering wheels which allow the disabled vehicle to be towed in a reverse tow direction. The tractor dolly assembly is configured so that in a reverse tow direction, the semi tractor can be towed by any truck with a pintle hook, which are fairly common on semi tractors and other over the road vehicles or other means for connection to a tow bar. The pintle hook would be connected to a draw or tow bar, which, in turn, would be connected to the tractor dolly assembly on accordance with the present invention. In accordance with another important feature of the invention, since the tractor dolly assembly is configured to be secured to the frame of a disabled vehicle, use of the tractor dolly assembly is independent of the configuration of the tractor or other vehicle or whether the disabled vehicle has a fifth wheel assembly.

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First Claim