Base Plate Kit and Parts Recommendation to Flat Tow a 1982 Toyota Pickup with Front Leaf Springs

Updated 03/18/2015 | Published 03/17/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Fixed Arms

(171)

$670.00

Roadmaster Bulb and Socket Tail Light Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - Incandescent

(446)

$84.48

Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,000 lbs

(426)

$850.00

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

(677)

$70.40

Roadmaster Even Brake Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(57)

$1930.00

Question:

Based on the picture of your 1123-1 brackets for the Roadmaster towing products, and my 1982 Toyota pickup 4WD with leaf springs, do these brackets bolt UNDERNEATH the frame in the existing holes in the frame? I have taken pictures of my truck, and would send them to you, but the truck is stock original, and there is actually a tow hook in those two holes on the RF which I would gladly remove...

asked by: Mark D

Expert Reply:

Since the Roadmaster base plate kit part # 1123-1 that you referenced has been confirmed to fit 1982 Toyota Pickup Trucks that are 4 wheel drive and have front leaf springs it would work well for you.

If you check out the install instructions link I attached you will see that the tow hook of your vehicle will need to get removed and the base plate kit attaches to the bottom of the frame.

In addition to the base plates, you will also need a compatible tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking to flat tow your vehicle. The most popular compatible tow bar is the Falcon 2, # RM-520. For safety cables you can use # RM-643. The coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground.

For lighting you can use the bulb and socket kit, # RM-155, and not have to worry about cutting and splicing into the vehicle wiring.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking in the vehicle being flat towed. The easiest system to set up and use is the Even Brake proportional system, # RM-9400, that applies 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.

I have included a couple of helpful links to our articles on flat towing for you. Be sure to consult the vehicle owners manual for more specific information on flat towing your vehicle.