Abstract: A carrier having a platform or deck mounted on a subframe tiltable relative to the vehicle chassis. The platform is preferably slidable relative to the subframe. Sufficient clearance is provided such that the subframe is preferably located between the vehicle chassis frame and the rear wheels, and below the top of the chassis frame. The resulting carrier has a platform with a height substantially lower than that of previous carriers, providing it with a lower center of gravity, enabling a reduction in load angle, an increase in payload height, and enhanced dynamic road stability.

Abstract: A carrier having a platform or deck mounted on a subframe tiltable relative to the vehicle chassis. The platform is preferably slidable relative to the subframe. Sufficient clearance is provided such that the subframe is preferably located between the vehicle chassis frame and the rear wheels, and below the top of the chassis frame. The resulting carrier has a platform with a height substantially lower than that of previous carriers, providing it with a lower center of gravity, enabling a reduction in load angle, an increase in payload height, and enhanced dynamic road stability.

Abstract: A bed platform used with a towing vehicle, such as a car carrier, for recovering a vehicle. The bed platform includes an approach plate inclined at an approach angle, a deck having a dropped deck surface and inclined at a drop deck angle, and an offset surface connecting the approach and drop deck surfaces. The offset surface forms an offset angle which is substantially different from the approach and drop deck angles, thus providing additional clearance for the bottom front portion of the vehicle to be loaded onto the bed platform as it moves from the approach to the drop deck surfaces. A method for using such a bed platform is also claimed.