Recommendation for Flat Towing a 2013 Chevy Spark with Manual Transmission

Updated 11/16/2015 | Published 11/15/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(4902)

$496.72

Blue Ox Avail Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 10,000 lbs

(810)

$1114.99

Blue Ox 7-Wire to 6-Wire, Coiled Electrical Cord

(686)

$94.08

Roadmaster Universal Hy-Power Diode Wiring Kit

(312)

$123.21

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

(799)

$1245.50

Universal Magnetic Tow Lights - Red LEDs - 20' Wiring Harness with 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector

(204)

$67.43

Question:

basekit plate tow bar,magnetic lights,is a braking required?the towed vehicle weighs 22oolb,how does a surge brake operate?

asked by: Joe

Expert Reply:

First let's get you set up with a base plate kit. The Blue Ox # BX1722 is the custom fit base plate kit for your 2013 Chevrolet Spark with a manual transmission.

Next we will need a tow bar. I recommend the # BX7420, because it's easy to use and comes with the safety cables.

Supplemental Braking Systems are required in most states and Canadian provinces, so you will want to look up your state and see what towing laws they enforce.

Surge brakes operate by using a mechanical braking system that uses the braking force of the tow vehicle to apply the brakes of the towed vehicle. Typically this is found on trailers with hydraulic brakes. For your setup, I recommend the Stay-IN-Play Duo # SM99251. This proportional braking system with inertia sensor is one that will never have to be removed, replaced, or reset. It will function automatically when you are ready to tow again with the flip of a switch once the vehicles wiring is hitched to RV.

We have magnetic towing lights like Optronics # TLL21RK that are popular among customers. We also offer a universal wiring kit that allows you to use your towed vehicles lights instead of magnetic lights, Roadmaster's Hy-Power Diode Kit # RM-152.

If you decide to go with the wiring kit you may also need the wiring to a connector, I recommend the Blue Ox 7-wire to 6-wire umbilical # BX88206. This electrical cord combo comes with a 6-pole connecter for your tow vehicle and the electrical cord to transfer power from your RV to your tow vehicle.

I have linked a Help Article on Towing a Vehicle and some installation videos on several of these products for your convenience.