Everything Needed to Flat Tow a 1996 Suzuki Sidekick 2-Door Behind an RV

Updated 03/01/2016 | Published 02/28/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(2076)

$525.00

Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(2076)

$525.00

Roadmaster Tracker Tow Bar - Coupler Style for 2" Ball - 5,000 lbs

(80)

$305.00

Replacement Roadmaster Tow Bar Quick Disconnect Kit

(47)

$79.77

Roadmaster Universal Magnetic Tow Lights with 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector

(41)

$80.73

RoadMaster 68" Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables - 6,000 lbs

(631)

$60.94

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

(703)

$1175.00

Magnetic Tow Light Partners (1 Pair)

(2)

$36.37

Question:

I have. 96 sidekick 2 dr 4+4 wnt to install base plate I have stowmaster 5000 tow bar the crossovertube is open with a bracket welded on each side for bumper support which kit do I use 118-8 118-1

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

If the crossover tube on your 1996 Suzuki Sidekick 2-door is open you will need to use base plates # 118-3. But you mentioned that it is open with a bracket welded on each side. If that bracket is not blocking the openings on the crossover tube then # 118-3 is correct. I have included a link to the installation instructions for you.

The 118-3 base plates have a part of the bracket that looks like a tube that needs to be inserted into that crossover tube. If the ends are blocked then you would need # 118-15 instead.

For either set of base plates Sidekick owners like the Tracker tow bar, # RM-020, rated for 5,000 pounds. To make this tow bar and the base plate arms easily removable you will also need # RM-201.

You will also need safety cables. I recommend # Rm-643. the coiled design help keeps the cables off of the ground. For lighting you can use a magnetic kit such as # RM-2120. If your Sidekick has a soft top then you would also need tow partners # TLP01 to mount the magnetic lights.

You may also need a high/low adapter to keep the tow bar level. I have linked a help article showing how to measure and a link to the high/low adapters we carry.

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.