Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2016 Chevy Equinox without Adaptive Cruise or Shutters Behind an RV
Published 12/10/2015 >
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Question:
I have a customer with a 16 Chevy Equinox, no adaptive cruise or grill shudders. He has an existing Stow master Tow bar and wants me to put base plates on it along with the wiring. Will Roadmaster Part Number 523184-5 work with that bar? I also need to know what wiring kit I will need to complete the install. Thanks!
asked by: Mark F
Expert Reply:
Roadmaster base plates # RM-523184-5 only work with motor home mounted tow bars and will not work with the Stowmaster. These base plates have a different type of connection at the ends of the removable arms that is not compatible with the Stowmaster.
What will be required is either different base plates such as # RM-523184-4, which is compatible with the Stowmaster, or a different tow bar such as the Falcon 2, # RM-520. The base plates cost less so I would choose them if cost is an issue.
If cost is not an issue then going with the alternate base plates and the superior Falcon 2 tow bar is the best option.
Your customer will also need safety cables such as # RM-643. The coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground. For lighting a simple magnetic kit such as # RM-2120 will be the easiest to set up and it bypasses the vehicle wiring. For a more permanent solution a 4-diode kit # RM-154 or a bulb and socket kit # RM-155 can be installed.
It also looks like a fuse has to be pulled to flat tow the 2016 Equinox. Consult the owner's manual to confirm. To make that process as easy as flipping a switch a fuse bypass, # RM76511, can be installed.
And finally, most states now require supplemental braking on the vehicle being flat towed. One of the preferred systems for our installers is the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO proportional system, # SM99251. It will apply 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.
Be sure to consult your vehicle 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.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Tow Bar Base Plate
- Removable Draw Bars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Partially Hidden
- Roadmaster
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