Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2011 Mini Cooper S Convertible Behind an RV with Roadmaster Eagle Tow Bar

Published 05/05/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(2137)

$575.00

Roadmaster 6-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles with Separate Lighting

(62)

$195.23

Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(2137)

$575.00

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

(660)

$69.90

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

(767)

$1175.00

Question:

2011 Mini S Convertable Why wont this base plate fit the above? I have a Roadmaster Eagle 2 tow bar.

asked by: Tom L

Expert Reply:

Since you have a 2011 Mini Cooper Convertible S model you can use Roadmaster base plates # 521879-1A. They are compatible with Quick Disconnects (found on some Roadmaster tow bars) and all Roadmaster tow bars. Base plates # 521880-1 do not fit the design of the Convertible S models.

In addition to the tow bar you have and the base plates you will also need safety cables (unless you already have some), lighting, and supplemental braking. for safety cables I recommend # RM-643. The coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground.

For lighting Roadmaster recommends the 6-diode kit # 154-792-118158. The 6 diode kit allows the brake lights to light up separate from the turn signals. Otherwise the brake lights would have to serve both functions.

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.