Is Battery Disconnect Required When Flat Towing A 2019 Chevy Suburban?

Updated 02/02/2026 | Published 01/27/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(3364)

$575.00

Roadmaster Battery Disconnect for Towed Vehicle w/ Flat Tow Brake System - Gas Only

(383)

$229.05

Question:

I have an RVi Shadow system installed in my 2019 Suburban Premier which we are towing behind our Renegade Classic. Although the owner’s manual states that that you should have a battery disconnect installed, one was not installed when the RV dealer installed our system. I noticed in your QandA section you had the following question - Why Do I Need to Disconnect the Battery to Flat Tow a 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4? Published 01/14/2024. Jered H responded the electric parking brake could activate while you are flat towing. Thats why they tell you to disconnect the battery. If we have the RVi Shadow that is charging the battery and we are in accessory mode, should we also have a battery disconnect like a RM - 766? I assume if we have a battery disconnect installed that the RVi system should be bypassing the disconnect to ensure it is working. Thanks for your help in advance.

asked by: Edward R

Expert Reply:

Hi Edward, thanks for reaching out. This is a good question, and you’re thinking about it the right way.

GM requires the battery to be disconnected when flat towing vehicles like your Suburban because the electronic parking brake can self-activate while the vehicle is in accessory mode. Disconnecting the battery removes that risk entirely, which is why a battery disconnect like the Roadmaster # RM-766 is required. That part is non-negotiable for safe flat towing on these models.

Using an RVi Shadow at the same time is fine, and the two systems are designed to work together. The battery disconnect isolates the vehicle’s electrical system, but the RVi Shadow still connects directly to the battery on its own circuit, so it can continue to draw power and receive a charge while towing. In other words, the Shadow does not need to be bypassed around the disconnect, and it will still function as intended even when the rest of the vehicle is electrically isolated.

expert reply by: Jesse M

Edward R.

1/29/2026

If I ordered the part is there some locally who could install the part for me? I live in central NJ south of Trenton. I would prefer it to be professionally installed to make sure it operates properly. Thanks Ed

Jesse M.

1/29/2026

@EdwardR Hey Ed, we do have a few installers in that area. The link I provided will show you the full list. I suggest checking with Dave Muller Automotive & Trailer in Ewing. They should have experience with that kind of thing.

Helpful Links

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