Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 1988 Suzuki Samurai Behind an RV  

Question:

Expert Reply:

No, the Roadmaster adapter # RM-033 itself isn't base plates. It is an adapter that attaches to Roadmaster base plates and allows you to then use certain Blue Ox and Demco tow bars. For actual base plates for the 1988 Suzuki Samurai we have Roadmaster base plates # 1003-1 and Blue Ox base plates # BX3501.

If you go with the Roadmaster base plates I recommend the Falcon 2 tow bar # RM-520. Or if you are looking for a more economical option I recommend the Tracker # RM-020. The Tracker costs less but you pretty much have to be on perfectly level ground and lined up straight to couple and uncouple from the RV. The Falcon 2 tow bar has telescoping arms so you would not run into as many issues hooking up. I have linked videos on both tow bars for you.

For either tow bar you will also need safety cables # RM-643. The coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground.

If you go with the Blue Ox base plates I recommend the Alpha, # BX7380. It comes with safety cables so you would not need to add any. For a more economical option you can use the Adventurer # BX7322. It does not come with safety cables. Like the Roadmaster tow bars the Adventurer will not be as easy to hook up to the RV as the Alpha. I have linked videos on both of these tow bars as well.

For lighting you can use a simple magnetic kit such as # RM-2120. Depending on how your vehicle is configured you may also need tow partners # TLP01.. Both of these light kits bypass the vehicle wiring so you won't have to splice into the tail light wiring for installation.

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.

expert reply by: Michael H

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