Which PowerTow is right for my plane?

Start with your airplane. Tell us what you fly and we will tell you which tug fits. We have been building tugs since 1974, and we know what works and what does not.

For a lightweight airplane, the 40EZ gas unit is the ideal tug for the pilot who wants to fly on their own schedule. The Briggs & Stratton EXi725 engine delivers full torque at lower speeds and runs smooth and quiet.

If your airplane is not listed in our product descriptions, please call us. If none of our tugs is the right fit, we will tell you.

I have more than one airplane. Which tug should I choose?

Choose the tug to suit the largest one. If you are not sure, call us with the list of what you fly and we will help you sort it out.

Should I buy a gas or a battery powered tug?

This is more a personal choice than a technical one. Gas tugs cost less. Battery tugs are quieter and easier to use.

Can I use a PowerTow on an airplane with wheel pants?

Yes, with the right unit. Our single wheel units (the 40EZ and the ThunderVolt) hook up to wheel pants with a set of frame extensions. The extensions reach outward and upward so you can connect above the wheel pants, and they bolt directly to the frame. Different aircraft need different hook up methods, so call us and tell us what you fly.

SuperTows and the Striker cannot accommodate wheel pants.

How does a single wheel PowerTow work?

This covers the 40EZ and the ThunderVolt. Hook up to the plane with the unit in neutral. Start the unit. Select forward or reverse. Squeeze the clutch handle and go.

How does a SuperTow load and unload?

All of our SuperTows load and unload using our remote control carriage.

1. The operator lowers the carriage.
2. The operator rolls the tug under the nose (or tail) wheel.
3. The carriage automatically raises and locks as the wheel is loaded.
4. The carriage swivels freely, which allows very tight turns without turning the nose wheel itself.
5. When the plane is in position, the operator lowers the carriage and rolls the tug back out.

All of this is done from the handle, with no winches or straps. For safety, we recommend chocking the mains when loading. You can rotate your plane within its own wheelbase without ever reaching your turn limits.

How does the clutch work?

Our gas units use a belt tensioner clutch. The belt stays slack until you squeeze the handle, and it tightens as you squeeze, so you control your speed with your hand. The clutch also works as a dead man's switch, because squeezing the handle is what engages the drive system. That gives you good speed control and a built in safety.

How does a single wheel unit balance?

It is totally self supported when it is hooked up. When it is not in use, it rests on the main wheel and the stand legs.

How does a single wheel unit turn?

Lift the handle to break the traction of the tire, then shift the handle left or right, the same way you would with a tow bar.

What is the difference between the SuperTow models?

The main difference among the units is size and weight capacity. The SuperTow 1 - 8,000 lbs., SuperTow Pro - 15,000 lbs., SuperTow 3 & 4 - 18,000 lbs.. Call us and we will point you to the size that fits your airplane.

What is the SuperTow Striker?

The Striker is a smooth, quiet, battery powered machine with clutchless load and go. It operates the same way as the gas SuperTows. It has dynamic braking and an electromagnetic parking brake, so the aircraft can be left unattended without chocking.

Can I use 100LL in my PowerTow?

Yes. All of our gas units may use either auto gas or 100LL. The unit will start better and run cleaner on 100LL, and you can use the fuel from your sump samples. You can just drain a cup at a time from your aircraft.

Why buy a PowerTow?

It is solid, safe, and easy to use, and you do not have to overpay for it. It is also one of the few items in aviation that does not require an STC. And it is built in Hayden, Idaho, by the same company that has been building tugs since 1974.

How long is the warranty?

Gas powered tugs carry a 2 year parts warranty and electric powered tugs carry a 1 year parts warranty, both from the date of delivery. Labor and freight are not covered. Read the full Warranty for the details.

Can I return a tug?

You can request a return within 30 days of delivery, under the terms of our Return Policy. Call us before you ship anything back. Many problems can be solved with a phone call.

Who pays for shipping?

Shipping and freight are the customer's responsibility, and freight for tugs is quoted separately. Our Shipping Policy explains how it works and what to do when your order arrives.