Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2014 Nissan Versa Note Behind an RV

Updated 07/11/2020 | Published 05/11/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(2125)

$575.00

Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 4-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit

(139)

$154.30

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

(43)

$77.31

Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,000 lbs

(401)

$850.00

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

(656)

$70.95

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

(754)

$1175.00

Question:

I purchased a new 2014 nissan versa note intending to flat tow with my motorhome., then found a base plate had not been developed. I then was forced to by an ez tow dolly. the dolly was a night mare. Had studied the hook up and watched the video, but soon found my car was not being held secure on the dolly. Made a 2500 mile trip and 3 times when checking the car found one of the tire harness completely off the wheel. Consulted with the manufacturer, but they could not explain how this could happen. I finally determined that when making turns the resistance in the power steering system was so great that the vehicle did not want to follow and that the one harness was under severe tension while the other loosened off. eventually the back and forth stresses would result in one of the harnesses coming off the wheel. Without the steering pump working it is extremely difficult to force the fluid through the system to turn the steering wheel even making very slow turns the forces put on the car are very great. I am now ready to order the base plate, tow bar and braking system you folks have, but am afraid that the hard steering will place tremendous stress on the base plate and may also not be safe, as is with the dolley. Please advise me on this matter as I do not think there is a problem with my steering and feel other vehicles of this model would have the same problem

asked by: Glen

Expert Reply:

When on a tow dolly the vehicle steering wheel should be locked so its wheels cannot turn. The dolly likely has a steering lock out or pin on it that you would have to remove or disengage so that the dolly can pivot while the vehicle is on it. That is probably why you had problems using the tow dolly.

When flat towing the steering wheel has to be unlocked because that allows the tires to turn when the RV turns. The base plates and tow bar can more than handle the forces that allow this to happen.

If your 2014 Versa Note has a manual transmission then you can flat tow it. But if it has the automatic transmission it has to be put on a dolly or trailer. So if you have the manual transmission then you can use base plates # RM-52357-4A. For a compatible tow bar I recommend the Falcon 2 # RM-520 rated for up to 6,000 pounds. You will also need safety cables # RM-643.

For lighting you can use a simple magnetic kit such as # RM-2120. Or for a more permanent solution you can use a diode kit, # RM-15247.

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.

expert reply by: Michael H

Jim L.

7/7/2020

Your suggestions were just what I was looking for. Next question: How do I find a qualified technician to handle the installation near Harlingen, TX. I have a 2004 Holiday Rambler Admiral, looking to tow a 2014 Nissan Versa Note with standard transmission.

Chris R.

7/11/2020

My best advice is to just seek out a local mechanic/shop with a good reputation. It's a relatively extensive job but a good mechanic shouldn't have too much trouble. We have install manuals attached on all the product pages so this might help get an accurate estimate as you call around. We don't have any specific recommendations where you are in Texas.