Comparing Blue Ox and etrailer Tow Bars for Flat Towing a 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 Duramax

Published 10/24/2023

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer SD Non-Binding Tow Bar for Blue Ox and Curt Base Plates - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6K lbs

(365)

$842.89

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(5250)

$609.00

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(5250)

$488.65

etrailer XHD Non-Binding Tow Bar for Blue Ox and Curt Base Plates - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 10.5K

(240)

$976.32

Question:

Want to tow 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 Duramax with my 2021 Newmar Ventana class A motorhome. Current tow bar is sufficient for car, but probably not for truck. Suggested tow bar? What about etrailer brand vs. Blue Ox?

asked by: Ll M

Expert Reply:

I'll pick the etrailer branded tow bars over the Blue Ox alternative any day because of some key features that set them above Blue Ox:

- Triggers for easier disconnection of the arms
- Integrated safety cables so you it's one less thing to remember to grab
- Head adjustment to minimize the need for a high-low adapter (although you still may need one for a truck - see attached article)
- Integrated rod to help keep coiled wiring off the ground
- Stacked arms that provide a wider range of flexibility

It looks like your 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 Duramax has a curb weight of 5,130 lbs so the 6K Tow Bar # e47ZR will work just fine, but if you plan on loading some cargo into your truck and/or you want some extra peace of mind when it comes to the weight capacity then the 10.5K # e67ZR is what you're looking for. I've also attached review videos off both styles of tow bars for you to compare on your end as well.

Please note the tow bars mentioned above are for a vehicle equipped with a Blue Ox base plate kit. You need part # BLU75CR if you have the ZR2 trim or part # BLU24TR if it's anything else.