Recommended Equipment for Flat Towing 2015 Subaru Forester Behind Motorhome

Updated 06/10/2020 | Published 03/28/2016

Products Featured in This Question

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

(452)

$712.12

Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(397)

$1493.40

Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 4-Way Flat Connectors

(3188)

$100.94

Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(2126)

$575.00

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

(656)

$71.01

Question:

I currently have a Roadmaster Sterling All terrain tow bar that I used a couple of years ago to tow a Jeep. I am now looking to tow a 2015 Subrau Forester behind it . The Subaru is not setup for tow. Is the tow bar I have a good one and if so what other parts will I need to setup the Subaru. Are there better tow bars now that I should consider and what parts would I need for those? Thanks

asked by: Bob M

Expert Reply:

The Roadmaster Sterling is an excellent tow bar that will work great for you.

If your Forester is a manual transmission non-turbo model, you can use the Roadmaster # RM-52923-4 base plates. The base plate is compatible with your Sterling Tow bar.

According to my research, automatic transmission equipped models are towable on a trailer only. You'll want to consult your owner's manual for any specific instructions Subaru offers for recreational towing.

To complete your flat towing setup, you'll need some additional items. Your tow bar should already have safety cables, but if not use part # RM-643. To wire the vehicle, I'd recommend the Roadmaster diode kit, part # RM-154. You'll also need a supplemental braking system. I recommend the Blue Ox Patriot part # BLU37TR. The Patriot is a portable system, and wouldn't require hours of expensive install labor like some other systems would.

When the tow bar is installed, you'll want the tow bar to be within 3 inches of level. The base plates will be 17 inches off the ground when installed, so depending on your hitch height you might need a high-low adapter. You'll need to determine the height difference between the hitch on your RV and 17 inches and then choose the proper high-low adapter to place the tow bar within 3 inches of level. I'll link you to our selection of high-low adapters.

I've linked you to some FAQ articles that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Mike L

Dave

6/7/2020

Is there a connection option for a Roadmaster tow bar and the Blue Ox base plate? I have the Blue Ox on the front of my Forester and have the roadmaster tow bar connecting to my RV. Help please.

Chris R.

6/10/2020

Yep - you can use the Blue Ox Adapter Brackets # BX88151, which will let you hook up the Blue Ox Base Plate arms on your Forester to your Roadmaster Tow Bar.