Parts Needed to Equip 2003 Volkswagen Jetta for Flat Towing Behind Motorhome

Updated 08/31/2016 | Published 08/30/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Blue Ox Alpha Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 8,500 lbs

(493)

$1079.00

Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(549)

$1678.05

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(5113)

$628.25

Blue Ox 4-Wire, Coiled Electrical Cord with 4-Way, Round Plugs

(32)

$74.37

Universal Magnetic Tow Lights - 20' Wiring Harness with 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector

(210)

$60.46

Question:

Hi, Im looking into flat towing a 2003 VW Jetta, manual transmission. The RV is a 2008 Born Free 24foot E450. The Blue Ox Aladdin BRK2010 appeals to me due to the light weight. What would you recommend and what all do I need to purchase? Thanks.

asked by: Mike C

Expert Reply:

For the 2003 Jetta Wagon we offer no base plates for flat towing but we do have them for the 2003 VW Jetta sedan. The Blue Ox base plates that fit the car are part # BX3827. These are fully compatible with the Alpha Tow Bar # BX7380.

Safe and legal flat towing requires a number of other components too, including safety cables (which come with the Aladdin), a wiring/lighting kit and a braking system for the towed car. Also a high/low hitch adapter is often needed to keep the connected tow bar level with the ground. All of these items are referenced in the linked article on flat towing. You'll also want to check your Jetta owner's manual to confirm that the car can be safely flat towed. Check the index under the heading recreational towing.

For a set of easy-to-install magnetic lights I suggest the Optronics kit # TL21RK. You can add a front-of-vehicle wiring connector like # BX8861 to make connecting to the MH easier.

For a braking system I suggest the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR for its wireless operation and portability.

You can refer to the two linked articles for more help on flat towing equipment.