Bailey’s Tailgate Talks: Let’s Talk Side Recovery and Carriers

If you’ve been in towing for more than a minute, you already know how much of a game-changer it is to have a carrier capable of side recovery.

A factory-installed side puller system is no doubt a great option—clean install, ready to go, and rock solid. But what if your area doesn’t justify that kind of investment? Or maybe your current carrier doesn’t support it, or you’ve already got a side puller but want the flexibility of dual-line capability.

That’s where the Bailey’s Side Recovery Guide (SRG) steps in and earns its keep.

A Simple Solution for a Common Problem

The Bailey’s SRG is a lightweight, easy-to-use, and cost-effective solution for carriers needing side recovery options—without breaking the bank. It’s designed to work with your existing rigging, and it mounts quickly anywhere along either side of the carrier bed, giving you maximum flexibility.

And let’s be clear—it’s not a side puller. It’s a guide. That means it doesn’t do the heavy lifting for you, but it sets you up for success by guiding your winch line during a side pull.

Smart Setup = Safer Recovery

Using the SRG is pretty straightforward, but there are a few best practices we always recommend:

• Lock that deck. Always use the SRG when your carrier’s bed is in the locked position. This helps reduce stress at the pivot points.
• Mind your placement. While it can go anywhere along the side, rear-of-bed placement means more leverage—and potentially less stability, especially in wet or uneven conditions. Want better stability and more usable winch line? Place it closer to the winch, between the rear axle and the cab.
• Guide the line right. The SRG’s job is to help you guide your line straight into the drum. So, your chain and snatch block positioning matter—they share the load and help reduce winch stress.

Train Before You Tow

Don’t wait until you’re knee-deep in a ditch recovery to figure this thing out. Take the time to:

• Watch the SRG in action on our YouTube page
• Read the instructions (or at least look at the pictures—we made them helpful for a reason)
• Grab a junk car and test a few setups on your yard

Get familiar with the tool before it’s go-time

A Proven Tool Since 2008

The SRG has been around for well over a decade, and there’s a reason it’s still one of our top recovery solutions for carriers. It’s effective, simple, and affordable—and like everything with the Bailey’s name on it, it’s built to do it right.

 

Got questions? We’re here to help. Need a second opinion on your setup? Reach out. Ready to add a solid side recovery solution to your toolbox?

Click here to get your SRG today

Stay safe out there—and remember, it’s not just what you use, it’s how you use it.

Bailey’s Tailgate Talk videos are posted on Bailey’s Towing Accessories, Inc. social media pages. Make sure you’re following us to stay updated!

Watch this episode of Bailey’s Tailgate Talk: How to Get the Most Out of Your Bailey’s Side Recovery Guide