We researched and compared the top tow lifts for pickup trucks based on manufacturer specifications, published industry and safety standards, and aggregated owner feedback. Our evaluation focuses on real-world performance, durability, and ease of installation. Whether you need a heavy-duty wrecker unit or a compact sliding lift, this guide will help you choose the right model for your truck and budget.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
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Vulcan V90 Wrecker Assembly Best Heavy-Duty Tow Lift 10,000 lb capacity, 90 degree rotation, 6 ft boom |
9.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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B&W Trailer Hitches Tow & Stow 2 Best Sliding Tow Lift 5,000 lb capacity, sliding mechanism, fits 2-inch receiver |
8.9 | 🛒 Check Price |
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MaxxHaul 70715 Tow Lift Best Budget Tow Lift 2,000 lb capacity, manual winch, 2-inch receiver |
8.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Iron Bull 12,000 lb Wrecker Unit Top Pick for Heavy Towing 12,000 lb capacity, 8 ft boom, hydraulic rotation |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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LiftMaster 5000 Hitch Lift Best for Medium-Duty Towing 5,000 lb capacity, electric winch, 2-inch receiver |
8.6 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Keeper 85018 Tow Lift Compact and Portable 2,500 lb capacity, manual winch, 2-inch receiver |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Husky Towing 3-in-1 Hitch Lift Versatile Multi-Function Lift 3,500 lb capacity, manual winch, adjustable height |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Vulcan V90 Wrecker Assembly: Best Heavy-Duty Tow Lift
The Vulcan V90 is a top-tier wrecker assembly designed for serious towing needs. In our evaluation, it offers a robust 10,000 lb capacity with a full 90-degree rotation and a 6-foot boom, making it suitable for recovering vehicles in tight spaces. Owner feedback highlights its reliability and the smoothness of the hydraulic system, which allows for precise placement of the towed vehicle. The unit is built with heavy-gauge steel and a corrosion-resistant finish, ensuring years of service even in harsh environments.
However, the V90 is not for everyone. Its weight and size demand a heavy-duty pickup truck with a reinforced frame. Owners of lighter trucks or those seeking a DIY-friendly install should consider a more compact model. Additionally, the price point reflects its commercial-grade quality, so budget-conscious buyers may find better value in other options.
- Hydraulic rotation and boom extension for precise control.
- Reinforced steel construction with corrosion-resistant coating.
- Includes remote control and emergency stop for safety.
Pros: Exceptional build quality and longevity.; Smooth hydraulic operation with fine control.
Cons: Heavy unit requires a sturdy truck frame and professional installation.
2. B&W Trailer Hitches Tow & Stow 2: Best Sliding Tow Lift
The B&W Tow & Stow 2 is a sliding tow lift that offers convenience for pickup truck owners who frequently tow with the tailgate down. We compared its sliding mechanism against fixed designs and found it provides excellent clearance for fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailers. The unit is rated for 5,000 lb, which is sufficient for most recreational trailers and boats. Owner feedback praises the ease of installation and the ability to stow the lift when not in use.
That said, the Tow & Stow 2 is not designed for heavy-duty recovery or towing large equipment. Its maximum capacity is lower than that of dedicated wrecker assemblies, and it relies on the truck’s existing hitch receiver. Users who need to tow over 5,000 lb or perform roadside recoveries should look at more powerful options. Additionally, the sliding feature can add some play, though most owners report it is secure when properly locked.
- Sliding design allows towing with tailgate down or up.
- No welding required; installs into standard receiver hitch.
- Integrated locking pin for secure attachment.
Pros: Versatile sliding feature for different tailgate positions.; Easy installation and removal.
Cons: Limited to Class III/IV hitches; not for heavy-duty towing.
3. MaxxHaul 70715 Tow Lift: Best Budget Tow Lift
The MaxxHaul 70715 is a budget-friendly tow lift that works well for light-duty tasks such as moving small trailers, lawn equipment, or jet skis. In our evaluation, the 2,000 lb capacity is adequate for small loads, and the manual winch eliminates the need for hydraulics. Owner feedback indicates it is easy to install and folds away neatly when not needed. The included safety chains add a layer of security.
However, this lift has clear limitations. The manual winch requires significant effort and time, making it impractical for frequent towing. Durability concerns arise from the lighter construction; some owners report bending under loads near capacity. We recommend this only for occasional, light towing. Users who need to tow heavier items or tow regularly should invest in a more robust model.
- Manual hand-crank winch for simple operation.
- Folds up when not in use for compact storage.
- Includes safety chains and hitch pin.
Pros: Very affordable for occasional light towing.; Lightweight and easy to store.
Cons: Manual winch is slow and labor-intensive.; Not suitable for heavy or frequent use.
4. Iron Bull 12,000 lb Wrecker Unit: Top Pick for Heavy Towing
The Iron Bull 12,000 lb Wrecker Unit is a commercial-grade tow lift designed for heavy recovery and towing. Our research shows it is one of the strongest units available for pickup trucks, with a 12,000 lb capacity and an 8-foot boom that can handle full-size trucks and SUVs. The hydraulic system provides smooth operation, and the remote control allows the operator to work safely from a distance. Owner feedback from heavy users praises its reliability and power.
On the downside, this unit is extremely heavy and requires a heavy-duty truck (typically a one-ton) with a reinforced chassis. Installation is not a DIY project and often requires professional welding and hydraulic line routing. The cost is also substantial, making it overkill for light or medium towing. If you do not need to recover large vehicles regularly, a smaller unit will be more practical and cost-effective.
- Dual hydraulic cylinders for powerful lifting.
- 360-degree rotation with remote control.
- Reinforced frame mounts for heavy-duty use.
Pros: Very high lifting capacity for large vehicles.; Smooth and precise hydraulic controls.
Cons: Very heavy; requires a one-ton truck and professional installation.
5. LiftMaster 5000 Hitch Lift: Best for Medium-Duty Towing
The LiftMaster 5000 Hitch Lift is a solid choice for medium-duty towing, offering a 5,000 lb capacity with an electric winch that eliminates manual cranking. In our evaluation, the wireless remote adds convenience and safety, allowing the user to stand clear during operation. The unit installs into a standard 2-inch receiver, making it accessible to most pickup owners. Owner feedback generally praises its performance for towing boats, small campers, and equipment.
However, the electric winch can be slow when lifting near capacity, and a few owners have reported issues with the electrical connections corroding over time. The unit is also not designed for heavy recovery work; it is best for planned towing rather than emergency recovery. Users who need a faster lift or who operate in harsh weather may want to consider a hydraulic model.
- Electric winch for effortless lifting.
- Wireless remote control for safe operation.
- Fits standard 2-inch receiver hitch.
Pros: Electric winch saves time and effort.; Good balance of capacity and ease of installation.
Cons: Winch speed can be slow under heavy loads.; Some owners report electrical connector issues.
6. Keeper 85018 Tow Lift: Compact and Portable
The Keeper 85018 is a compact tow lift designed for portability and light-duty use. We compared its fold-away design to other models and found it is one of the easiest to store, taking up minimal space in the truck bed. The 2,500 lb capacity is suitable for small trailers, ATVs, or lawn equipment. Owner feedback highlights its convenience for occasional towing and the simplicity of the manual winch.
But this lift is not for heavy towing. The low capacity and manual operation make it impractical for frequent or large loads. Some owners note that the winch handle can be awkward to turn, and the unit feels less sturdy than heavier models. We recommend this only for those who need a tow lift for very light, occasional use and prioritize portability over power.
- Lightweight and portable design.
- Folds flat for storage in truck bed.
- Includes tie-down straps and safety chains.
Pros: Very easy to store and transport.; Simple installation with no tools required.
Cons: Low capacity limits use to small loads.; Manual winch is tiring for repeated use.
7. Husky Towing 3-in-1 Hitch Lift: Versatile Multi-Function Lift
The Husky Towing 3-in-1 Hitch Lift aims to combine a tow lift, cargo carrier, and hitch step in one unit. In our evaluation, this versatility is appealing for those who want to maximize utility from one accessory. The adjustable height is a nice feature for matching trailer couplers. Owner feedback mentions that it works well for light loads and occasional use, and the fold-up design is convenient.
However, the multi-function design leads to compromises. The lift mechanism is less robust than dedicated units, and the manual winch struggles near the 3,500 lb limit. Some owners report bending under heavy loads. Safety concerns arise from the combination of functions; the step can interfere with towing if not properly stowed. We recommend this only for light, infrequent towing where versatility is more important than raw strength.
- 3-in-1 design: tow lift, cargo carrier, and hitch step.
- Adjustable height to fit different trailers.
- Folds up for storage when not in use.
Pros: Multi-function adds versatility.; Adjustable height is useful for different hitch heights.
Cons: Compromises on durability due to multi-function design.; Manual winch is underpowered for near-capacity loads.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a tow lift and a wrecker assembly?
A tow lift is typically a simpler device that attaches to a receiver hitch and uses a winch to lift a trailer or vehicle. A wrecker assembly is a more complex hydraulic unit that can rotate, extend, and lift heavy loads, often used for vehicle recovery. Wreckers require professional installation and are heavier, while tow lifts are easier to install and remove.
Can I install a tow lift myself?
Many tow lifts that attach to a standard 2-inch receiver hitch can be installed by the owner with basic tools. However, heavy-duty wrecker units that require welding, hydraulic lines, and electrical connections should be installed by a professional. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines.
How do I choose the right capacity for my tow lift?
Determine the maximum weight you plan to tow, including the trailer and cargo. Choose a lift with a capacity at least 20% higher than that weight to provide a safety margin. Also consider the weight of the lift itself and ensure your truck’s hitch and frame can handle the load.
Are electric winches better than manual winches for tow lifts?
Electric winches are more convenient and require less physical effort, making them ideal for frequent or heavy use. Manual winches are cheaper and more reliable in harsh conditions but require more time and effort. If you tow occasionally and want to save money, a manual winch can suffice.
Can I use a tow lift with a gooseneck or fifth-wheel trailer?
Some tow lifts, like sliding models, are designed to work with gooseneck or fifth-wheel trailers by allowing the tailgate to be down. Fixed lifts may interfere. Check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure compatibility with your trailer type.
Our Verdict
After evaluating capacity, durability, ease of use, and owner feedback, our top pick is the Vulcan V90 Wrecker Assembly for its heavy-duty build and smooth hydraulic performance. For a more versatile and easier-to-install option, the B&W Trailer Hitches Tow & Stow 2 is an excellent runner-up, especially for those who need to tow with the tailgate down.
