Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle with Manual Transmission  

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Expert Reply:

I can't access an owner's manual for your 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle but from my research since you have a manual transmission it can be flat towed behind an RV. You'll want to check your owner's manual to be sure because VW will give you the definite answer. With that being said most manual transmission vehicles can be flat towed.

If you find that you can tow your Beetle I can help you with the parts you'll need.

Base plates that will fit your VW are the Blue Ox # BX3815. These are custom fit for your car and have a great hidden look once installed. You can use the Blue Ox Avail Tow Bar # BX7420 to connect to the Class A. I like the Avail because of the higher, 10,000 pound, weight capacity. The Avail also includes safety cables.

For lighting I would use a magnetic kit like the Optronics Heavy-Duty Magnetic Tow Lights # TL21RK. This way you don't have to splice into the Beetle's wiring.

For a supplemental braking system the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO # SM99251 is a favorite around here because of how reliable it is and it's easier to install than many other permanently installed systems.

Finally, you'll likely need a high-low adapter. I've attached an article to help you determine the correct rise or drop your setup requires. I've also linked our selection of adapters for you to look at once you know what you need.

In addition to my recommendations I've linked some articles on flat towing that you may find helpful.

expert reply by: Charles S

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