Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2010 Chevy Equinox Behind an RV  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Base plates # 523163-1 do not fit the 2010 Chevy Equinox. For your Equinox I recommend Blue Ox base plates # BX1689 because it fits models with or without adaptive cruise control and/or active air shutters. Our installers also find the Blue Ox base plates a little easier to install.

As far as if you can install them yourself, it is possible but Blue Ox does recommend a professional installation. Instructions are included and I have also linked them for you here. I have also included a link to a video showing an example installation.

In addition to the base plates you will also need a compatible tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking to flat tow the vehicle.

The tow bar I recommend is the Alpha, # BX7380. This tow bar is rated for 6,500 pounds and comes with safety cables. For a more budget friendly option I recommend the Acclaim # BX4330 which also comes with safety cables and is rated for 5,000 pounds. I have linked video reviews of these tow bars as well.

For lighting I recommend a kit that bypasses the vehicle wiring so you won't have to cut and splice into the vehicle wiring. For that you could use a simple magnetic kit such as # RM-2120. Or for a more permanent solution you could use bulb and socket kit # RM-155. Once installed you will not have to worry about it again.

It also looks like fuses have to be pulled to flat tow your Equinox. Consult the vehicle owners manual to confirm. To make this process as easy as flipping a switch I recommend fuse bypass # RM76511.

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

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