Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2011 Mini Cooper Behind a Motor Home
Published 05/22/2014
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I have a 2011 Mini Cooper hardtop. A BX1307 base plate fits, and rear light wiring is a necessary addition for installation. Also, I wish to use an existing brake system from previous 2002 Mini. I would be grateful if you could provide price for BX1307 and rear light wiring kit along with directions for installation. I believe my existing brake system US Gear D-Celerator can be used. Thanks.
asked by: Tom R
Expert Reply:
The Blue Ox base plates # BX1307 are indeed a fit for your 2011 Mini Cooper. In addition to the base plates you will also need a compatible tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking, which you have mentioned. I have linked the installation instructions for you.
For a compatible tow bar the most popular option is the Alpha, # BX7380. This tow bar also includes safety cables so you would not need to get additional cables if you choose this tow bar.
For lighting, if you will not be towing the Mini often, you can use a magnetic light kit, # RM-2120. For a more permanent solution you can use diode kit # 154-792-118158. I have linked the instructions for the diode kit for you.
And finally, most states now require supplemental braking on the vehicle being flat towed. I looked up the braking system you mentioned but I do not know how it would work with the rest of the flat towing components. I do recommend going with a braking system that we know will work.
One of the easiest systems to set up and use is the Even Brake proportional system # RM-9400. It will apply the Mini brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the easiest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.
You will also need stop light switch kit # RM-751440 so you know the Mini brake pedal is actually moving, and outlet kit # RM-9332 is also recommended. The outlet kit is normally recommended if the normal power outlet is not active when the key on the vehicle is placed in the correct position for flat towing.
Be sure to consult your Mini owners manual for specific information on flat towing the vehicle. I have also included some helpful links to our series of help articles on flat towing for you. Current pricing can be seen on each product page and on the parts links below.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Tow Bar Base Plate
- Removable Draw Bars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Completely Hidden
- Blue Ox
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Video:
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between the Blue Ox Patriot BRK2019 & BRK2022?
- Shop: Vehicle Tow Bar Brake System
- Search Results: accessories and parts
- Shop: Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Video: Comparing Portable Flat Tow Braking Systems - Curt RVi and Blue Ox Patriot
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Video: An In-Depth Look at the Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Shop: Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 7-Way to 6-Way Coiled Adapter Cord
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Video: An In-Depth Look at the Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Q&A: Which is Better Roadmaster or Blue Ox Tow Bar
- Shop: Base Plate for Tow Bar
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Shop: Vehicle Tow Bar Wiring
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Video: Firestone Ride-Rite Air Bags with Easy Mount Compressor Feature Breakdown
- Shop: Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles
- Search Results: base plate for tow bar
- Q&A: Does etrailer Carry Furrion Chill Cube w/ Heat Pump to Replace Dometic Duo-Therm
- Search Results: tow bar
- Shop: Blue Ox Avail Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 10,000 lbs
on Tow Bar Base Plate
