Parts Needed for Flat Towing 2013 GMC Acadia Behind Motorhome

Updated 01/23/2017 | Published 01/22/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(4619)

$498.34

Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(397)

$1489.90

Blue Ox Alpha 2 Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,500 lbs

(453)

$705.44

Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 4-Way Flat Connectors

(3190)

$100.94

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

(439)

$82.60

12 Volt Outlet Kit, 20 amps

(331)

$40.45

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

(200)

$61.88

Question:

We need to set up my 2013 Acadia for towing behind our non air brakes motorhome. Ive been looking at the Blue Ox and Roadmaster base plates. What else will we need to purchase? Thank you.

asked by: Beth

Helpful Expert Reply:

We can help you with selecting the items required to ready your 2013 GMC Acadia for flat towing behind your motorhome that does not have air brakes. In fact the linked article on flat towing is a great place to start since it covers each component, which include the tow bar, safety cables, a wiring/lighting solution, a high/low hitch adapter and both base plates and a braking system for the toad. Articles on these last two components are also linked.

You'll also want to check your GM owner's manual for guidance regarding flat towing your Acadia. Check your manual under the heading Towing, and find the section regarding flat/recreational towing. I tried to access their online manual but the site was down for maintenance.

Starting with base plates, I suggest Blue Ox kit # BX1708 since it allows for a completely inconspicuous look when you remove the arms for normal driving. With this kit you can use their Alpha tow bar # BX7380 which includes the required safety cables, saving you that one expense.

For a wiring/lighting solution you have many options including easy-to-use (and cost-effective) magnetic lights like # TL21RK, bulb-and-socket kits like # RM-155 that require permanent installation in your taillight housings, and diode kits like # RM-154. For lowest cost and easiest installation use the magnetic lights. If they break or get lost they are easy to replace.

For a braking system it is hard to beat the wireless and portable Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR. This will slow the Acadia at the same rate the motorhome slows down, for less of that tug-of-war feeling. You will just need an outlet kit # RM-9332 to power it.

For a high/low hitch adapter to keep your tow bar level please refer to the linked adapter page and help article.