A Full-Scale Cleanup Effort
What started as a typical day on a frac site quickly turned into one of the most challenging Ecleto heavy recovery operations our towing team ever faced. The disaster unfolded on CR 303 near FM 627, between Ecleto, TX, and Helena, TX, in Karnes County. A single hydraulic hose touching the turbo or exhaust on a blender trailer’s motor triggered a fire that grew out of control, consuming nearly everything on site.
Uncovering the Damage
When we arrived, the scene was one of complete devastation. The fire had engulfed nearly everything, reducing machinery and equipment to nothing but charred metal frames. The destruction spread far and wide, consuming a blender trailer, nine frac pump trailers, eleven tractors, a flatbed trailer, a dry van trailer, a Sky Trac forklift, a manifold trailer, and various other pieces of equipment scattered around the site. This recovery operation was shaping up to be one of the most extensive cleanup efforts we had ever undertaken.
The Equipment Arsenal Behind the Recovery
Understanding the scale of this Ecleto heavy recovery, we assembled a powerful lineup of machinery to handle the job. Over the course of six days, our team of five to eight members worked tirelessly to clear the site. Here’s the equipment we brought to tackle the job:
- 50-ton Rotator
- 35-ton Rotator
- 50-ton Heavy-Duty Wrecker
- Landoll Tractor Trailer
- Two Skid Steers
- Three Roll-Off Dumpsters
- Equipment Trailer
- Three RGN Low Boy Tractor Trailers
With everything prepped and ready to go, we began the long and challenging process of removing the destroyed equipment from the site.
From Wreckage to Transport
Executing this Ecleto heavy recovery required precise coordination and methodical planning. Our team tackled the project in a series of steps. We ensured to leave nothing behind.
The first stage involved separating all the tractors from the trailers. Once disconnected, we loaded each tractor onto trailers for transport. With the tractors out of the way, we turned our attention to clearing debris from the ground. Using skid steers, we carefully removed scattered wreckage to create stable paths for our heavy equipment to travel through the site.
The next task was to winch the frac pumps out to open ground. These pumps were the heaviest pieces of equipment, each weighing approximately 98,000 pounds. Precision and power were essential during this stage of the Ecleto heavy recovery effort. Once we had located the pumps, we brought in the heavy-duty rotators and wrecker to lift them onto haul trailers for transportation.
Throughout the operation, our skid steers remained in constant use, ensuring the ground stayed clear and accessible. By the time we reached the final stage, our team had safely transported all units back to our Mission Wrecker location in Converse, TX. They remain there today, awaiting salvage.
Overcoming the Recovery Challenges
The sheer scale of destruction made this Ecleto heavy recovery operation one of the most demanding projects we’ve ever taken on. Working through the night in darkness and battling fatigue, our team remained committed to completing the job safely. Every piece of equipment had to be carefully moved, lifted, and transported under difficult conditions.
Mission Wrecker: No Ecleto Heavy Recovery Too Tough
The lessons learned from this Ecleto heavy recovery effort will stay with us, reinforcing our commitment to tackling even the most challenging recovery operations with skill and determination. At Mission Wrecker, we pride ourselves on being prepared for anything, no matter how overwhelming the situation may seem. Our experienced team, advanced equipment, and unwavering dedication make us a trusted choice for our customers. When disaster strikes, we’re ready to respond with the resources needed to get the job done.
