Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2000 Chevy Silverado 1500 Z71

Published 02/19/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Blue Ox Alpha 2 Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,500 lbs

(451)

$712.33

Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(397)

$1577.69

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(4614)

$544.29

Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 7-Way to 6-Way Coiled Adapter Cord

(3186)

$179.96

Question:

I am looking at the tow bar #63180 for my 2000 Silverado I will also need a base plate and what ever else is needed to make a safe tow. Also can I install this myself?

asked by: James S

Expert Reply:

We have everything you will need, but I would not recommend the Tow Ready part # 63180 unless this is for a one-time short distance situation since this tow bar is only rated for up to 45 MPH. Instead the Blue Ox Alpha # BX7380 would be your best option because it has a 6,500 lb capacity like what you would need for your 2000 Chevy Silverado 1500 Z71. This tow bar also comes with coiled safety cables which are required as well.

For a base plate kit the part # BX1682 would fit and work well.

For lighting you can use the diode kit, # RM-15267, and not have to worry about cutting into the taillight housing. This will splice into your taillight wiring to allow your tow vehicle to control the taillight assemblies of the towed vehicle. This comes with a round 6-way connector that you will install on the front of your towed vehicle and enough coiled wire to go from there to the RV.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking in the vehicle being flat towed. The easiest system to set up and use is the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR, 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.

Most likely you will also need a high low adapter so that the tow bar will be level when you are flat towing. I attached a link to a page that has all of the ones we carry.

All these parts would be easily installed as long as you have the time, needed tools, and basic mechanical skills.

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.