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Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2015-2019 Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra 3500  

Updated 06/23/2020 | Published 10/24/2018



Question:

I'm looking into getting a 3rd generation 3500 GM pickup that I will need to flat tow frequently. What do I need to do this?

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Expert Reply:

The parts to flat tow a 3rd generation 3500 GM pickup will actually be almost identical whether it is a Chevy Silverado or a GMC Sierra since they are essentially the same vehicle.

To flat tow any vehicle you will need a base plate kit, tow bar, safety cables, vehicle tow bar wiring, a supplemental braking system, and possibly a high-low adapter. The base plate kit that I recommend for your application is the Roadmaster MS Base Plate Kit # RM-3180-2 as this fixed arm system adds a rugged look to your pickup.

The MS kit pairs nicely with the Roadmaster Nighthawk All Terrain # RM-676 which is one of the nicest tow bars that we have to offer due to the LED lights for visibility, easy connection points, and the included safety cables. This bar also includes a partial wiring kit that you can complete with part # RM-152 which stays permanently installed on your truck.

Then for a brake system I highly recommend the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO # SM99251. This is a proportional braking system that applies the brake on your truck at the same time and with the same intensity as the brake pedal in your motorhome. The proportional braking not only gives you a nice feel when you are braking but it also helps to reduce wear on your other towing components. If you purchase a Chevy Silverado with the adjustable pedals or a GMC Sierra then you will also need the Stop Light Switch Kit # RM-751463. For a Chevy Silverado without the adjustable pedals you will need the Stop Light Switch Kit # RM-751460 instead.

As long as you don't end up getting a diesel or a truck that has 2 batteries then the Automatic Battery Disconnect with Switch # RM-766 is a great product that makes connecting and disconnecting your battery much easier and avoids the potential of wearing down parts on your battery. The Battery Charge Line Kit # RM-156-25 is also a part we recommend as it will keep your battery from dying via the 12V charge line from your motorhome.

Most flat towing setups require a high-low adapter for the tow bar to remain level while towing. I have linked our selection of adapters for you to check out as well as an article that will help you determine which is the best one for your application.

A few other products you may be interested in includes the Tow Bar Cover # RM-055-3 and the Roadmaster Lock Set # RM-304 to help protect the Nighthawk All Terrain, and then the Tow Defender # RM-4750 to help protect your pickup from any flying road debris.

Attached are some videos and helpful articles for you to check out as well.

expert reply by:
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Jon G
Sherman E. profile picture

Sherman E.

6/19/2020

I have a 2015 Chevy Silverado 1500, 4 wheel drive, High Country pickup. I would like to get all parts and #’s needed to purchase a trail master nighthawk To tow behind class A Motorhome.

Chris R. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Chris R.

6/23/2020

The Roadmaster Base Plate Kit # RM-3176-3 will work perfectly on your Silverado to hook up to the Nighthawk Tow Bar # RM-676. For wiring you can add the Diode Kit # RM-152 to the harness that already comes included with the Nighthawk and for a braking system I highly recommend the Brake Buddy 3 # HM39524.
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