Recommendations For Flat Towing a 2002 Honda Odyssey EX
Updated 02/08/2013 | Published 02/07/2013
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Question:
Specifically what must be done to i.e. considerations for the transmission to the vehicle to make it towable? Do I need to let it idle while towing, run the engine for a specified time period, etc.? Will I have to make any modifications to my vehicle such as trimming cowlings, fascia, grill etc.? Do I need to drill holes ? Do you have a detailed drawing I can study concerning how to install the base plate? Which particular towbars will fit your baseplate? What questions should I be asking that I have not already addressed? Thank you.
asked by: Jac B
Expert Reply:
To flat tow your 2002 Honda Odyssey you do have to follow a pre-towing preparation that is stated in your vehicles owners manual. Improper towing preparation will damage the transmission.
When preparing to tow your vehicle, make sure the transmission fluid level is full. Do not overfill. The automatic transmission must be run through this procedure every day immediately before towing.
1. Start the engine
2. Press on the brake pedal. Shift the lever through all the positions (P, R, N, D, 2, 1).
3. Shift to D, then to N. Let the engine run for at lease three minutes, then turn off the engine.
4. Release the parking brake.
5. Leave the ignition switch in ACCESSORY (1) so the steering wheel does not lock. Make sure the radio and any items plugged into the accessory power sockets are turned off so you do not run down the battery.
If you travel more than 8 hours in one day (including stopping time), you must stop and repeat the above procedures. The steering system can be damaged if the steering wheel is locked. Always leave the key in the ACCESSORY (1) position to prevent damage to the steering system when towing behind another vehicle.
The Roadmaster EZ Base Plate Kit, part # 521551-1, you have referenced, will fit the 2002 Honda Odyssey. It does require some drilling and trimming of the front fascia. I am including a link to the installation instructions of the base plates. It shows pictures with good detail of the installation.
With the base plates installed, you would then need a tow bar compatible with EZ style base plates. The RoadMaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar, part # RM-520, would be an excellent choice. I have included a link to the installation details.
To complete the towing set up for your Odyssey, you will need safety cables, lighting, and a supplemental braking system as required by law. For safety cables, I recommend RoadMaster 64 inch Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables, part # RM-643.
For lights, there are a couple of options. If you do not plan on towing the Odyssey often, I recommend magnetic light kit, part # RM-2120. If you do plan on towing it frequently, I recommend installing Roadmaster Diode Wiring kit, part # RM-154. I am including a link to a FAQ page on tow bar wiring that should help in choosing the best light kit for your application.
For a braking system, the easiest to use and install would be the Roadmaster Even Brake Portable Proportional Braking System, part # RM-9400. This system installs quickly so you are ready to go in minutes. It engages the towed vehicle brakes proportionally to how much the towing vehicle is braking, reducing wear of both vehicles brakes.
