Can I Flat Tow 2011 Toyota Tacoma with 5 Speed Manual Transmission  

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Expert Reply:

Your 2011 Toyota Tacoma owner's manual will indicate if the truck can be flat towed and what preparation steps might be required to get it ready. Some vehicles can require a driveline disconnect or a transmission lube pump, for example. Check your manual's index under the heading 'recreational towing' for information about flat towing your specific version as it is equipped from the factory.

Safe and legal flat towing requires 5 components: a tow bar, safety cables, base plates, a wiring/lighting solution and a supplementary braking system. The base plates you referenced, part # DM9517190, are a confirmed fit for your truck. To complete your flat towing set up you will want safety cables, light kit and a supplemental braking system. For a tow bar that matches the base plates use # DM9511012 that includes safety cables.

For a wiring solution you can use # RM-155. This part will allow you to use your truck's signal lights without tapping into its wiring.

Most states now require a supplemental braking system. You should check with your local laws and regulations to see if a braking system is required. If you do need a braking system, then I recommend the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR. This is a proportional braking system that will apply the brakes in the towed vehicle with the same intensity as the tow vehicle. It's a portable system which are the easiest systems to set up and use.

I have included a link to a helpful article on the basics of towing your vehicle.

expert reply by: Chris O

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