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Base Plates and Related Items for Flat Towing 2009 Toyota Tacoma PreRunner  

Published 12/24/2014

Question:

Bought motor home already setup with the Roadmaster Falcon 2 for towing. Ive already ordered the 1175-3 MX base plates for my 2009 Tacoma. Just want to verify that Ive ordered the correct plates for this Falson 2 hitch? BTW, the Tacoma is a 5-speed and I intend to disconnect the drive shaft when towing which seems odd, but the owners manual says do not tow?

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Expert Reply:

The Roadmaster MX Base Plates you referenced, part # 1175-3, are a correct fit for your 2009 Toyota Tacoma PreRunner and they are fully compatible with your Falcon 2 motorhome-mounted tow bar, part # RM-520.

In addition to the base plates and tow bar safe and legal flat towing also requires safety cables, a lighting/wiring solution and supplementary braking system for the toad. Each of these items is reviewed in detail in the linked article on flat towing. Since you already have a Roadmaster BrakeMaster braking system # RM-9060 you'll just need cables and lighting.

For safety cables I suggest the Roadmaster # RM-643.

For lighting/wiring you have several options. We offer simple magnetic light kits like the Optronics # TLL21RK that require no alterations to your truck, as well as bulb-and-socket kits like the Roadmaster # RM-155 that require you to install additional bulbs in your tail light assemblies. The linked article reviews the advantages of each type of kit. For frequent towing the bulb kit is a better choice but for occasional use the magnetic kits are an easier option.

It is important to review your vehicle owner's manual for any guidance or restrictions related to flat towing. Some trucks simply cannot be flat towed at all; others may require temporary modifications like a driveline disconnect and/or a transmission lube pump in order to be flat towed without causing damage to the transmission and drive train. Be sure to check your manual or with your local dealership before flat towing the truck.

expert reply by:
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Adam R

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