How Hard is it to Install Base Plates to Flat Tow a 2012 Toyota Corolla Behind an RV

Published 06/29/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(2166)

$670.00

Roadmaster Bulb and Socket Tail Light Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - Incandescent

(442)

$83.99

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

(44)

$86.16

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

(415)

$850.00

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

(667)

$59.90

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

(799)

$1245.50

Question:

Install how hard is it? Do you need to take front bumper off?

asked by: Jaime

Expert Reply:

Base plate installation on any vehicle, including # 1188-1 for your 2012 Toyota Corolla, is a fairly involved process. You will have to take the front clip off to install the base plates. Regarding the difficulty Roadmaster has a standard statement in all base plate instructions stating:

"Installation of most mounting brackets requires moderate mechanical aptitude and skills. We strongly recommend professional installation by an experienced installer."

I have included a link to the installation instructions for you to view. Regardless of the statement they make you can look over the installation instructions and decide whether or not this installation is something you want to tackle yourself or take somewhere to have installed.

In addition to the base plates you will also need a tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking. The most popular compatible tow bar is the Falcon 2 # RM-520. I have linked a video review for you. For safety cables you can use # RM-643.

For lighting I recommend kits that bypass the vehicle wiring so you won't have to cut and splice into the Corolla's tail light wires. You can use # RM-155 as an example or a magnetic kit such as # RM-2120.

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.