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
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.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Tow Bar Base Plate
- Removable Draw Bars
- Hitch Pin Attachment
- Partially Hidden
- Roadmaster
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Search Results: accessories and parts
- Search Results: rhino rack roof rack
- Video: Ultimate Overview of the Pioneer Platform Mounting Kit for Rhino-Rack Heavy-Duty Crossbars
- Shop: Pioneer Platform Mounting Kit for Rhino-Rack Heavy-Duty Crossbars
- Shop: Base Plate for Tow Bar
- Shop: Vehicle Tow Bar Wiring
- Shop: Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Fixed Arms
- Shop: Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Shop: Roadmaster Base Plate Adapter for Tow Ready Tow Bar - Replacement Crossbar for Tracker Tow Bar
- Shop: Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Adapter for Blue Ox and Demco Tow Bars
- Shop: Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Fixed Arms
- Shop: Demco Classic Base Plate Kit - Fixed Arms
- Shop: Vehicle Tow Bar Brake System
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Video: An In-Depth Look at the Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Video: An In-Depth Look at the Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Video: Breaking Down the Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit
- Q&A: Does etrailer Carry Furrion Chill Cube w/ Heat Pump to Replace Dometic Duo-Therm
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
on Tow Bar Base Plate
