Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2013 Chevy Spark with Manual Transmission
Question:
Hi, I just bought a Spark manual transmission, of course for a dinghy, and now need to choose the towing items for it. What do you recommend?
asked by: James A
Helpful Expert Reply:
I am happy to help you with the parts needed to flat tow (or dinghy tow) your 2013 Chevy Spark with manual transmission.
Starting with a base plate, I recommend a kit that features removable arms which will let the Spark keep more of its normal appearance when you're not towing it. Roadmaster kit # 523174-1 has such twist-lock arms that you can see in the linked photo; once you remove them the car's appearance is back to normal. The Falcon Tow Bar # RM-520 is a perfect fit with these base plates. You'll need safety cables too, part # RM-643.
For a lighting/wiring kit you have a lot of options that range from inexpensive (and easy to install) magnetic lights # RM-2120 to more intrusive installations such as diode kits like # RM-15267 that require cutting and splicing. I suggest the hassle-free magnetic light option since it costs less and is easy to replace if the need arises.
For a braking system for the Spark you again have a choice between portable and easily transferred systems like the Patriot # BLU37TR that you set up each time and others that require a one-time invasive installation that you do not have to do each time. All appear on the linked page. I recommend the Patriot # BLU37TR because you can easily move it to your next towed car (or sell it) and because no major modifications to the Spark are needed. You'll use 12V outlet kit # RM-9332 to power it.
You may also need a high/low hitch adapter like # RM-048-8 to keep the tow bar level when it is connected to the Spark and motorhome. You can refer to the linked article for specifics.
I also suggest review of your Spark owner's manual for any specific requirements or general guidance related to flat towing this car.

Products Referenced in This Question
Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Tow Bar Base Plate
- Removable Draw Bars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Partially Hidden
- Roadmaster
more information >
Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional
- Flat Tow Brake System
- Brake Systems
- Proportional System
- Every-Trip Setup
- Built-In Battery
- Portable System
- Power Assist Brake Compatible
- Air Brakes
- Air Over Hydraulic Brakes
- Hydraulic Brakes
- Wireless Display
- Blue Ox
more information >
Roadmaster High-Low Adapter for Tow Bars - 2" Hitches - 8" Rise/Drop - 10K GTW, 400 lbs TW
- Accessories and Parts
- Tow Bar
- Hitch Adapters
- High-Low Adapter
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- 8 Inch Rise/Drop
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 7-Way to 6-Way Coiled Adapter Cord
- Flat Tow Wiring Harness
- Splices into Vehicle Wiring
- Diode Kit
- Universal
- Tail Light Mount
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,000 lbs
- Tow Bar
- Hitch Mount
- Telescoping - Binding
- Steel
- 6000 lbs
- Fits Roadmaster Base Plates - Crossbar
- Fits Roadmaster Base Plates - Direct Connect
- Stores on RV
- Cables Not Included
- Roadmaster
more information >
RoadMaster 68" Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables - 6,000 lbs
- Safety Cables
- Coiled Cables
- 68 Inch Long
- 6000 lbs GTW
- Snap Hooks
- Coated Cables
- Roadmaster
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Tow Bar Base Plate
- Removable Draw Bars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Partially Hidden
- Roadmaster
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Vehicle Tow Bar Wiring
- Shop: Base Plate for Tow Bar
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Shop: Vehicle Tow Bar Brake System
- Shop: Replacement Roadmaster Smart Diode for LED Tail Lights - Qty 1
- Shop: Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 7-Way to 6-Way Coiled Adapter Cord
- Shop: Blue Ox Avail Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 10,000 lbs
- Search Results: base plate for tow bar
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Shop: Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 7-Way to 6-Way Straight Adapter Cord
- Shop: Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Shop: Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional
- Search Results: roadmaster sterling all terrain tow bar
- Video: How to Install the Roadmaster Tail Light Wiring Kit with Bulbs on a 2021 Chevrolet Spark
- Shop: Demco Stay-IN-Play Duo Flat Tow Brake System for RVs w/ Hydraulic Brakes - Proportional
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Search Results: battery disconnect switch
- Search Results: flat tow braking
- Video: A Closer Look at the Roadmaster Hy-Power Diodes (Qty 2)
- Video: Best 2013 Chevrolet Spark Trailer Hitch Options
- Search Results: cam locks rv door locks
- Video: DIY Install: Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles on your 2017 Chevrolet Spark
- Video: Finding the Right Trailer Wiring Harness
- Video: Installing the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit on a 2015 Chevrolet Spark
- Q&A: What is Simplest and Best Supplemental Braking System for Flat Towing a Vehicle
- Q&A: Flat Tow 2013 Chevrolet Spark
- Q&A: Recommended Flat Towing Set Up for a 2021 Ford Ranger Being Pulled by a Motorhome w/ Air Brakes
- Q&A: Which is Better Roadmaster or Blue Ox Tow Bar
- Search Results: rv locks