Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2011 Chevy Silverado 1500 4x4 Behind an RV

Updated 07/13/2016 | Published 07/12/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(3379)

$575.00

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

(44)

$83.20

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

(407)

$850.00

Roadmaster 80" Coiled Safety Cables - Double Hook - 10,000 lbs - Qty 2

(91)

$120.20

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

(767)

$1175.00

Question:

I was wanting to purchase a Class A motorhome and tow my 2011 Silverado 4X4? is that doeable?

asked by: Robert P

Expert Reply:

Yes, you can flat tow a 2011 Chevy Silverado 1500 4x4. Only the 4x4 models can be flat towed with all wheels on the ground. The 2-wheel drive models cannot be flat towed and would have to be put on a trailer.

But since you have a 4x4 you don't have to worry about that! There are 5 main parts needed to flat tow a vehicle: base plates, tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking.

For base plates you can use Roadmaster MX base plates # 3154-3. I have linked a video showing an example installation for you. For a compatible tow bar it is going to depend on the gross weight of your truck when you are ready to tow it. If the truck weighs under 6,000 pounds then the Falcon 2 # RM-520 is an excellent choice. But if it is more than 6,000 and less than 10,000 I recommend the Blackhawk, # RM-422. For safety cables you can use # RM-653.

For a lighting kit you can use a simple magnetic kit such as # RM-2120. Or for a more permanent installation you could use diodes such as # TR118821.

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.