Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Behind a Motorhome

Updated 07/06/2018 | Published 07/04/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Fixed Arms

(25)

$575.00

Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 7-Way to 6-Way Straight Adapter Cord

(3384)

$200.81

Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles

(1323)

$45.74

Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(3491)

$575.00

Roadmaster 64" Single Hook, Straight Safety Cables - 8,000 lbs

(361)

$61.84

Roadmaster Battery Disconnect for Towed Vehicle w/ Flat Tow Brake System - Gas Only

(404)

$202.90

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

(797)

$1245.50

Question:

I am looking to purchase the Roadmaster baseplate, Model RM-3180-2. I see where you have a video of an installation this type of baseplate on a 2018 GMC Sierra 2500. I see where this item may not be a good fit for my Sierra 1500. Can you check to see if this will fit my 2018 Sierra 1500?

asked by: Tim C

Expert Reply:

We do have base plates for your 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 but # RM-3180-2 will not fit. The comparable set that will fit your 1500 is # RM-3177-3. This set actually has removable arms so that when you take them out the base plates are essentially invisible. I have linked the installation instructions for you to view.

For a compatible tow bar I recommend the Blackhawk 2 # RM-422. This is an all-terrain tow bar which means you will not have to be lined up perfectly straight and level to hook up or disconnect the truck. This will allow you to actually enjoy your vacation rather than spend it fighting with a bound up tow bar. For safety cables you can use # RM-645.

For lighting diode kits such as # RM-152-98146-7 are popular. Once installed you won't have to worry about it again. the battery has to be disconnected to flat tow your truck. GM says to disconnect the negative cable but if you use automatic battery disconnect # RM-766 you would need to install it on the positive battery terminal instead. Roadmaster has tested this and it works great. Plus if you do use the automatic disconnect you can add a charge line, # RM-156-25, to provide some power to the truck battery from the motorhome.

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.