Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 Behind a Motor Home

Updated 01/09/2013 | Published 01/08/2013

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(3379)

$575.00

Roadmaster Universal Magnetic Tow Lights with 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector

(44)

$83.20

Roadmaster Extension Loop for Towed Vehicles - Dual 4-Way Flat Trailer Ends - 6' Long

(41)

$38.40

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

(407)

$850.00

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

(355)

$64.95

Roadmaster 80" Coiled Safety Cables - Double Hook - 10,000 lbs - Qty 2

(91)

$120.20

Roadmaster Stop Light Switch Kit - GM Pickups/SUVs w/Adjustable Pedals

(634)

$48.45

Roadmaster Stop Light Switch Kit - GM Pickups/SUVs w/Non-Adjustable Pedals

(634)

$83.95

Roadmaster Even Brake Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(56)

$1930.00

Question:

I was planning to order the 10,000 lb. receiver for my motorhome but the base plate info says they should not be used on vehicles over 5,000 lb.

asked by: Dave

Expert Reply:

Given that your 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 could easily get over the 5,000 pound limit of the base plates you're refering to I recommend going with a different set. The Roadmaster MX base plates, # 3154-3, are generally considered more heavy duty and are recommended for trucks and SUVs.

For a compatible tow bar, you will want a Roadmaster model that slides into the hitch on the RV. For a compatible tow bar that will match the capacity of your hitch and cover the vehicle weight, take a look at the Blackhawk, # RM-422. This is an all-terrain tow bar that makes hooking up and disconnecting easy even on un-level ground. It also features safety cable channels to keep the cables off the ground. I have included a link to the installation instructions for you.

If the truck does not weigh over 6,000 pounds then I recommend the Falcon 2, # RM-520. It is less expensive then the Blackhawk and is the most popular Roadmaster tow bar we carry.

For a set of 8k cables use # RM-645. For 10k cables you can use # RM-653.

You will also need a lighting solution. If you will not be towing the truck often I recommend a magnetic kit # RM-2120. But for a more permanent solution and frequent towing I recommend harness, # HM56101.

Most states now require supplemental braking on the vehicle being flat towed. The easiest system to set up and use is the Even Brake proportional braking system, # RM-9400, that applies 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. You will also need a stop light switch kit which allows you to know that the brake pedal is being pressed.

If the truck has adjustable pedals use # RM-751220. Without adjustable pedals use # RM-751421. Be sure to consult the truck owners manual for the proper flat towing procedure. I have included some helpful links on flat towing for you.