Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2003 Chevy Silverado Behind an RV  

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Expert Reply:

Custom fit base plates should not be welded to your 2003 Chevy Silverado. They are not designed to be welded and doing so could compromise the structural integrity of the base plates.

Base plates # 3154-1 are not a fit for your truck but we have other options that are. If your truck is a 1500HD, 2500, or 3500 you can use # 3115-1. If it is a 1500 but not a Z71 or HD then use # 199-10 and the front suspension must have coil springs. And if it is a Z71 with torsion bar front suspension use # 199-5.

For a compatible tow bar I recommend the Falcon 2, # RM-520, rated for 6,000 pounds. You will also need safety cables # RM-643.

For lighting you could use a simple magnetic kit such as # RM-2120. Or, for a more permanent installation, a diode kit, # RM-15267. The magnetic kit bypasses the vehicle wiring whereas the diode kit uses the vehicle wiring. The magnetic kit costs less and can be used on different vehicles but you have to set it up every time.

You may also need a high/low adapter to keep the tow bar level. I have linked a help article showing how to measure and a link to the high/low adapters we carry.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking on the vehicle being flat towed. One of the preferred systems for our installers and what I recommend is the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO proportional system, # SM99251. It will apply the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.

If you go with the 4-diode lighting kit then brake light relay # RM-88400 is required to prevent the towed vehicle's turn signal from overriding the signal from the RV. This is not needed if you use the magnetic kit.

Be sure to consult your vehicle owners manual for specific information on flat towing the vehicle. I have also included some helpful links to our series of help articles on flat towing for you.

expert reply by: Michael H

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