IM race support questions

They can fix a lot. At IMLP they had 4 teams broken down into different sections and one goes with lead group and another stays with the end folks. They had tubes, chains, I believe wheels.

I saw women with broken chain and guy with broken seat collar clamp so was riding standing up until they helped him.

Issue is where they are when you need them. Other athletes will tell volunteer or police up ahead so they call for support. You may have to wait short or long time depending on where you and they are.  I saw both the lady with the broken chain walking and a guy on the ground with some issue, told the police officer at the turn around and he said that many others had already told him about the situations.

Ideally you will be prepared to do most repairs but if major thing occurs they are out there to help you. A BTer once did bike support and shared they really watch the folks at the back as they want them to make the bike cut off.

great thanks!

Will they actually help you change a tire?  I know how, it just takes me awhile.

At Boise 70.3 I saw a support person helping a cyclist replace a tube.  I don't know if she had blown a 2nd tube or was just having trouble getting the first one in.  Another person got a replacement chain (or repaired not sure, I know he blew out a chain and got help and was able to finish the race).  A third person got a replacement front tire.  That was all I saw, could have been more help before or after me on the course.

I've been wondering about this. I signed up for IM WI sag wagon this year, and I'm not really sure what to expect. At first, I thought it would be strictly picking up those who have dropped for various reasons (I have a pickup), but other readings make me think I may be hauling a bike mechanic and various spares around. I'm also wondering about just how much help can be given, and by whom (volunteers/officials vs spectators)
Does the sag wagon drive the whole route, or just "patrol" a section? I'd think it was the latter, since the shifts are 2 hours long, although I'm signed up for the whole day.