Legacy Equipment
Legacy EquipmentSupport Policy
PowerTow — Northwest Mfg. Inc. — Since 1974
We're proud that many of our machines are still in service 20+ years after they were built. That kind of longevity doesn't happen by accident — it happens because we build equipment right from the start.
Our Track Record
Built to Last.
Honestly Supported.
For over 50 years we've been engineering aircraft tugs that stand the test of time.
Tugs built in the 1990s are still moving aircraft today — and that's something we're genuinely proud of.
However, as equipment ages, the ability to reliably support it changes.
Parts get discontinued. Designs evolve. At a certain point, continued repairs
are no longer a reliable or responsible solution for our customers.
Our commitment to you means being honest about that point — and helping you
navigate it when it comes.
are still working today.
That's the PowerTow standard."
What Happens Over Time
As Equipment Gets Older
For machines typically 15–20+ years old, customers may begin to experience one or more of the following challenges. These are not failures of the equipment — they are the natural result of time and use.
At a certain point, continued repairs are no longer a reliable or responsible solution. We will always be transparent with you about where your equipment stands — even when that conversation is a difficult one.
Our Commitment to You
How We Handle Legacy Equipment
We focus our full parts, service, and warranty support on current production models — equipment we can confidently stand behind. When legacy equipment reaches the end of its practical service life, here is what you can expect from us:
Transparency About Support Limitations
We will be upfront about what we can and cannot support on your specific unit. You will never be left guessing. If parts aren't available or a repair isn't feasible, we'll tell you clearly and explain why.
Honest Repair Guidance
We will never recommend a repair that doesn't make financial sense for you. If the cost of repair approaches or exceeds the value of a replacement, we'll say so — and let you make the call with full information.
Help Transitioning to a Modern Replacement
When it's time, we'll help you find the right current-model PowerTow for your aircraft and operation. 50+ years of engineering means today's tugs are better in every way — and we'll make the transition as straightforward as possible.
Protection From Unexpected Downtime
This approach protects your operation from escalating repair costs and unreliable equipment. A tug that goes down at the wrong time isn't just an inconvenience — it disrupts your entire operation. Reliability matters more than longevity.
Ready to Upgrade?
Making the Transition Easy
If your legacy tug has reached the end of its practical service life,
upgrading to a current PowerTow model means you get 50+ years of
engineering refinements, full parts and warranty support, and —
on new 2026+ purchases — the Lifetime Parts Promise
covering belts, cables, and springs for as long as you own the tug.
The best time to replace your tug is before it fails.
Talk to us and we'll help you find the right fit for your aircraft
and your budget.
Shop Current Tugs →
How We Help You Transition
Assess Your Current Unit
Call us and we'll evaluate your legacy tug's status and remaining support options.
Find the Right Replacement
We'll match you to the correct current-model tug for your aircraft type and hangar setup.
Hook-Up Kit Compatibility
We'll confirm your existing hook-up kit works with the new unit or source the right one.
Lifetime Parts Promise
New 2026+ purchases include our Lifetime Parts Promise — belts, cables & springs covered for life.
Longevity Matters.
Reliability Matters More.
We're proud of every tug still running after 20, 30, even 40 years. And we're equally committed to being honest when it's time for a new one.
Questions About Your
Legacy Equipment?
Call us directly and talk to someone who knows these machines inside and out. We'll give you a straight answer about where your tug stands and what makes sense next.
