Can I Flat Tow my 2018 GMC Canyon With a Grille Guard Installed  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

I'll start off by addressing the grille guard on your 2018 GMC Canyon; in most cases, grille guards are going to be mounted using the exact same points that are used for mounting base plates used for flat towing. For this reason you would need to first remove the grille guard in order to flat tow your truck.

In order to re-use your crossbar style Roadmaster tow bar with your 2018 GMC Canyon you'll want to use the Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # RM-523182-4, which is compatible with both quick disconnects and all Roadmaster tow bars. All of the available Roadmaster base plates for your 2018 Canyon are only compatible with models that do not have Adaptive Cruise Control; if your vehicle has the Adaptive Cruise Control feature, you can still use these base plates, but the feature will not function properly. If your towbar does not have integrated safety cables, I recommend the Roadmaster Coiled Safety Cables # RM-643 because their coiled design ensures that they won't drag on the ground between the vehicles where they could be damaged.

Since you're switching vehicles that you flat tow, you'll likely also need wiring for your lights. I recommend using the Roadmaster # RM-15267 which will allow your RV lights and truck lights to operate on a combined system. This kit comes with diodes included to prevent feedback that could damage the electrical system on your RV. Since the battery on your GMC Canyon also needs to be disconnected during flat towing, I recommend using the Roadmaster Automatic Battery Disconnect with Switch # RM-766, which will make the process as easy as flipping a switch. This is a much better solution than disconnecting and re-connecting your battery at each stop.

If you also need a supplemental braking system, I recommend using the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR which provides proportional braking for your 2018 GMC Canyon. I like this system because of the portability and ease of installation. It will require installing an additional 12v outlet to supply power, which you can use the 12v Outlet Kit # RM-9332 to accomplish.

I've linked some helpful installation videos to this answer that you might want to have a look at as well, in the event that you're going to be installing these yourself. If you require a supplemental braking system or any other parts to complete your flat towing setup, please let me know and I can help you locate the best parts for your application.

expert reply by: Erik B

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