On the Hook - Miniature Tow Trucks by Doug Breithaupt, images from the collections of Tom Larson and Bentley Breithaupt

Even toy cars can break down and when they do, a toy tow truck may be needed. Over the last 50 years, many small-scale tow trucks have been produced. What follows is a selection of some well-known and lesser-known models. One of the most-recognized tow trucks is the Matchbox Dodge BP model from the 1960's (right). With it's classic yellow and green colors, this model was a staple of many Matchbox collections for Baby-Boom kids. The red Matchbox Ford Thames tow truck to the left is one that appeared in 1960.

This model and other Matchbox and Corgi/Husky models shown are from the collection of Tom Larson. My collection of tow trucks is a true mix-and-match assortment as I do not focus on trucks. Other models included here come from the collection of Bentley Breithaupt, my 8 year old son and a collector in his own right. I appreciate Tom and Bentley's help in providing examples from their collections.

I have tried to organize the following models according to the age of the vehicle they represent. Some do not identify the make of the vehicle and I am not sure what they are supposed to be. I did not include flat-bed tow trucks or other car haulers. With everything from Efsi's 1919 Model T to Hot Wheels' fantasy 6-wheeled 'Tow Joe', these wreckers do not lack for variety. I know there are many other tow truck models out there in 1:64 scale and I look forward to your additions to this list.

1919 Ford Model T - Efsi	Bedford O Type - Matchbox	Bedford O Type - Matchbox (re-issue)	Toyota Dyna - Motor Max
GMC Wrecker - Hot Wheels (McDonalds)	Ford - Husky	Dodge - Majorette	Ford - Matchbox
Land Rover - Corgi	Ford - Matchbox	'Toe Joe' - Matchbox	GMC - Hot Wheels
GMC Canadian Auto Assoc.- Matchbox	GMC Rescue - Mega Speed	GMC Formula 1 Wrecker - Welly	Chevy - Welly
Chevy - Matchbox	Ford Transit - Majorette	Peterbilt (PACCAR) - Matchbox	Mack - Majorette
'Rig Wrecker' Ford 9000 - Hot Wheels	Dodge Ram - Johnny Lightning	Dodge Ram	Tow Jam - Hot Wheels

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