Question:
I tow my 2009 HHR with a tow dolly with electric breaks. If I go to 4 down towing with the Falcon 2, what breaking equipment do I need? Can any part of the existing electric breaks be used to power the new 4 down system?
asked by: Dennis
Helpful Expert Reply:
There are several braking systems that you can use with your 2009 Chevy HHR, see link. 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.
You will not use the brake controller that was used for the tow dolly with any of the braking systems we carry.
In addition to the tow bar and braking system you will also need safety cables # RM-643, base plates on the vehicle, and lighting to flat tow your HHR. For base plates there are a couple of options. If your HHR is NOT an SS model then use # 3141-1. If it is an SS model use # 523159-1. The Falcon tow bar, # RM-520, is compatible with either set of base plates.
For lighting you could use a simple magnetic kit such as # RM-2120 or, for a more permanent solution, a diode kit such as # RM-15247. I have linked a video that should also help.
It looks like you will need to pull a fuse when flat towing your HHR. Consult the vehicle owner's manual to confirm. To make this process as easy as flipping a switch I recommend fuse bypass # RM76511. I have linked a video showing how it installs as well.
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. 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.
Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
Roadmaster EZ Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 4-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit
Roadmaster Standard Magnetic Tow Lights
RoadMaster 68" Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables - 6,000 lbs
Roadmaster FuseMaster Fuse Bypass - 13" - 20-Amp Mini-Fuse
Demco SBS Stay-IN-Play DUO Supplemental Braking System - Proportional
Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar - Motorhome Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,000 lbs