Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2012 Chevy Equinox AWD Behind a Motor Home  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

I checked the owner's manual online for a 2012 Chevy Equinox with All-wheel drive and you can flat tow it behind a motor home. Take a look at the recreational towing section (10-78) in the owner's manual to confirm.

As far as a rear towing package I assume that you mean a trailer hitch. The trailer hitches that fit a 2012 Equinox will actually fit 2005 to 2016 Equinox models; such as Curt Class III hitch # 13591. But the hardware will have to be replaced since it is designed to be torqued down just once. To replace the hardware you need # RHK and enter the hitch number and manufacturer where indicated.

Getting back to flat towing you will need several parts: base plates, a tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking.

For base plates there are some options but I recommend Blue Ox base plates # BX1689 because they fit models with or without adaptive cruise control or active air shutters. I have linked a video showing an example installation for you.

For a compatible tow bar I recommend the Alpha, # BX7380. The Alpha is rated for 6,500 pounds and it includes safety cables so you will not have to purchase any separately.

You may also need a high-low adapter to keep the tow bar level. I have included a link to a help article that explains how to measure to determine the size adapter needed, if any.

For lighting you could use a simple magnetic kit such as # RM-2120. Or, for a more permanent installation I recommend the 4 diode kit # RM-154. I have linked a video showing an example installation for you. It also looks like you will have to pull fuses to flat tow the Equinox. Consult the owner's manual to confirm. To make this process as easy as flipping a switch I recommend fuse bypass # RM76511. I have linked a video showing installation on a similar vehicle.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking on the vehicle being flat towed. One of the preferred systems for our installers and what I recommend 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.

expert reply by: Michael H

1