Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2012 Toyota Tacoma with Roadmaster Stowmaster Tow Bar

Published 12/30/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(3336)

$575.00

Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(2126)

$575.00

Roadmaster 6-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles with Separate Lighting

(61)

$193.68

Roadmaster Universal Magnetic Tow Lights with 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector

(43)

$77.31

Roadmaster StowMaster Tow Bar - Coupler Style for 2" Ball - Car Mount - 6,000 lbs

(148)

$960.00

RoadMaster 68" Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables - 6,000 lbs

(656)

$71.47

Demco Stay-IN-Play Duo Flat Tow Brake System for RVs w/ Hydraulic Brakes - Proportional

(759)

$1175.00

Question:

Hey there. Do I need to do any drilling for the subject vehicle and do you have any special recommendations for me? Also assume this plate will work with the Roadmaster tow bar, code 501. Thanks for your reply.

asked by: Lawrence D

Helpful Expert Reply:

Yes, there is some drilling required to install base plates # 1175-3 on your 2012 Toyota Tacoma. I have included a link to the installation instructions to the right for you to view. These base plates are NOT compatible with the Roadmaster Stowmaster tow bar # RM-501.

I recommend using the XL base plates # 1175-1. There is still drilling required but these base plates are compatible with the Stowmaster tow bar.

You will also need safety cables # RM-643. The coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground. For lighting you can use a magnetic kit such as # RM-2120 or a more permanent solution such as 6-diode kit # 154-792-118158.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking on the vehicle being flat towed. I recommend the SMI Stay-In-Play Duo, # SM99251. It is a proportional system that applies the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the motorhome is braking. This is the safest way to stop and reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.

Be sure to consult your Tacoma 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.