Base Plates, Tow Bar and Accessories Needed to Flat Tow a 2012 Kia Soul with Manual Transmission

Published 12/15/2011

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(2126)

$575.00

Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,000 lbs

(403)

$850.00

RoadMaster 68" Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables - 6,000 lbs

(656)

$71.03

Roadmaster Even Brake Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(56)

$1930.00

Question:

I am planning to purchase a Kia Soul manual transmission to be flat towed behind my 2004 Forest River Lexington 235S. On your site I find the 522112-1 Roadmaster brackets for the 2012 model year listed but this part number does not show up on the Roadmaster websiite. Roadmaster does show 522111-1 for the 2011 model but I may get a better deal on the 2012 new car incentives and interest rates. Please let me know if the 522112-1 is an actual part number from Roadmaster and they are just late updating their website. Thanks in advance for the information.

asked by: Wallace H

Expert Reply:

A searched for a 2012 Kia Soul on the Roadmaster site for base plates and did get it to come up with the part # 522112-1. There is one comment on this kit and it is that it fits manual transmission only. Make sure to consult the owners manual to determine the proper towing specifics for your vehicle.

For a compatible tow bar, the most popular option that is also compatible with the base plates is the Falcon 2, # RM-520. I have included a link to the installation details and a link to a video review of the tow bar for you.

For safety cables, I recommend the coiled cables, # RM-643 because the coiled design will help to keep them from touching the ground.

For a lighting solution, there are several options. I have included a link to an FAQ article that covers the various options so you can decide which will be best for your specific application.

Most states now require a supplemental braking system on the vehicle being towed. The easiest system to set up and use is the Even Brake, # RM-9400. This is a proportional system that applies the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. Proportional systems are the safest way to stop and they reduce wear and tear on both vehicles.

I have also included a link for you to our series of FAQ articles on flat towing.