Car dollies are devices used to move vehicles without starting the engine by lifting and supporting the wheels. They consist of a platform with wheels or casters that can be placed under the tires of a vehicle. Here's how they work: 1. **Positioning**: The car dolly is placed under the wheels of the vehicle. Depending on the type, it can be used for either the front or rear wheels, or all four wheels if needed. 2. **Lifting**: Some car dollies come with a built-in hydraulic jack or a lever mechanism to lift the vehicle slightly off the ground. This lifting action allows the wheels to rest securely on the dolly platform. 3. **Securing**: Once the vehicle is lifted, it is secured onto the dolly using straps or chains to prevent it from rolling off during movement. 4. **Mobility**: The dollies have wheels or casters that allow the vehicle to be easily pushed or pulled in any direction. This is particularly useful in tight spaces where maneuvering a vehicle might be difficult. 5. **Steering**: Some car dollies are equipped with swivel casters, allowing for 360-degree movement, which provides greater control over the direction in which the vehicle is moved. 6. **Towing**: In some cases, car dollies are used for towing. The front wheels of the vehicle are placed on the dolly, while the rear wheels remain on the ground, allowing the vehicle to be towed by another vehicle. Car dollies are commonly used in garages, showrooms, and repair shops to move vehicles without starting the engine, saving fuel and reducing emissions. They are also useful for moving non-operational vehicles or those with mechanical issues.

Car dollies offer several benefits for vehicle storage and maintenance: 1. **Space Efficiency**: Car dollies allow vehicles to be moved easily in tight spaces, maximizing storage capacity in garages or workshops. 2. **Mobility**: They enable easy maneuvering of vehicles without starting the engine, which is useful for positioning cars in storage or during maintenance. 3. **Protection**: By lifting the vehicle off the ground, car dollies help prevent tire flat spots and reduce stress on the suspension system during long-term storage. 4. **Versatility**: Suitable for various vehicle types, car dollies can accommodate different sizes and weights, making them a versatile tool for car enthusiasts and professionals. 5. **Maintenance Access**: Elevating the vehicle provides better access to the undercarriage, facilitating tasks like oil changes, brake inspections, and other repairs. 6. **Safety**: They offer a stable platform for vehicles, reducing the risk of accidental movement during maintenance work. 7. **Cost-Effective**: Car dollies are a relatively inexpensive solution for vehicle storage and maintenance compared to other equipment like lifts. 8. **Ease of Use**: Simple to set up and operate, car dollies require minimal effort to move vehicles, making them user-friendly. 9. **Durability**: Made from robust materials, car dollies are designed to withstand heavy loads and frequent use, ensuring long-term reliability. 10. **Preservation**: By keeping vehicles stationary and off the ground, car dollies help preserve the condition of tires and suspension components, extending their lifespan.

Car dollies can be used on many types of vehicles, but not all. They are primarily designed for moving vehicles with two-wheel drive, either front or rear, and are most effective for cars, light trucks, and SUVs. Car dollies lift the drive wheels off the ground, allowing the vehicle to be towed or maneuvered without engaging the transmission, which is ideal for vehicles with automatic transmissions that can be damaged if towed with the drive wheels on the ground. However, car dollies are not suitable for all-wheel-drive (AWD) or four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicles unless all four wheels are lifted off the ground. Towing these vehicles with only two wheels on a dolly can cause significant damage to the drivetrain. For AWD and 4WD vehicles, a flatbed trailer or a tow truck with a flatbed is recommended to ensure all wheels are off the ground. Additionally, car dollies have weight and size limitations. They are generally not suitable for very large or heavy vehicles, such as large trucks, buses, or RVs, which exceed the weight capacity of most dollies. It's crucial to check the weight rating of the dolly and ensure it matches the vehicle's weight. In summary, while car dollies are versatile and useful for many vehicles, they are not universally applicable. Vehicle type, drivetrain configuration, and weight must be considered to determine if a car dolly is appropriate. For vehicles that do not fit these criteria, alternative towing methods should be used to prevent damage.

1. **Preparation**: Ensure the car is on a flat, stable surface. Engage the parking brake and turn off the engine. Gather necessary tools: car dollies, a jack, and wheel chocks. 2. **Jack Up the Car**: Use a hydraulic or scissor jack to lift the car. Refer to the vehicle’s manual for proper jacking points to avoid damage. Lift one end of the car at a time. 3. **Position the Dollies**: Place a dolly under each wheel. Ensure the wheels of the dollies are facing outward for easy maneuverability. 4. **Lower the Car**: Carefully lower the car onto the dollies, ensuring each wheel is securely seated in the dolly’s cradle. 5. **Secure the Car**: If the dollies have straps or locks, use them to secure the wheels to the dollies. This prevents the car from rolling off during movement. 6. **Test Stability**: Gently push the car to ensure it is stable and securely positioned on the dollies. Adjust if necessary. 7. **Move the Car**: With the car on dollies, you can now push it to the desired location. Ensure the path is clear of obstacles and the surface is smooth. 8. **Parking**: Once in position, lock the dollies if they have brakes. Re-engage the parking brake for added security. 9. **Removal**: To remove the dollies, reverse the process. Jack up the car, remove the dollies, and lower the car back to the ground. 10. **Safety Precautions**: Always wear safety gear, such as gloves and steel-toed boots. Never work under a car supported only by dollies. Use jack stands if necessary.

Yes, there are several safety precautions to consider when using car dollies: 1. **Weight Capacity**: Ensure the dollies are rated for the weight of the vehicle. Overloading can lead to failure and accidents. 2. **Surface Conditions**: Use dollies on a flat, stable surface to prevent rolling or tipping. Avoid using on slopes or uneven ground. 3. **Secure the Vehicle**: Before lifting, ensure the vehicle is in park (or in gear for manual transmissions) and the parking brake is engaged. Use wheel chocks for added security. 4. **Proper Lifting**: Use a jack to lift the vehicle safely before placing it on the dollies. Ensure the jack is rated for the vehicle's weight and is used according to the manufacturer's instructions. 5. **Positioning**: Place the dollies under the wheels correctly, ensuring they are centered and secure. Misalignment can cause instability. 6. **Inspection**: Regularly inspect dollies for wear and damage. Check wheels, frames, and locking mechanisms for any signs of wear or damage. 7. **Locking Mechanisms**: Engage any locking mechanisms on the dollies to prevent unwanted movement. 8. **Clear Pathways**: Ensure the path is clear of obstacles before moving the vehicle on dollies to prevent accidents. 9. **Manual Handling**: Use proper body mechanics when maneuvering the vehicle on dollies to avoid injury. Get assistance if needed. 10. **Storage**: Store dollies in a dry, safe place when not in use to prevent rust and damage. 11. **Training**: Ensure anyone using the dollies is trained in their proper use and understands all safety precautions. 12. **Emergency Preparedness**: Have a plan in place for emergencies, including knowing how to safely lower the vehicle if needed.