Can I Flat Tow My 2021 Chevy Colorado 4x4 Z71 V6 Engine  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Hi Melissa, great question and I’m really glad you checked before setting this up, because this is one of those situations where getting it right matters for protecting your drivetrain.

For your 2021 Chevy Colorado 4x4 Z71 with the V6, the short answer is yes, you can flat tow it, but only if it has the proper transfer case. Your truck needs to be equipped with a two speed transfer case that has a true Neutral position. That Neutral setting is what disconnects the drivetrain so nothing is turning internally while you’re towing. Most Z71 models do have this, but it’s still important to confirm in your specific vehicle's owner’s manual and follow the exact flat tow procedure GM outlines, including how to shift into Neutral and any key or battery steps required.

If your truck does not have that Neutral setting in the transfer case, then it should not be flat towed, as that can cause serious damage, so that’s the key piece we want to confirm.

Once that checks out, you’ll need a full flat tow setup to do this safely and correctly. For the base plate, I recommend the Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit part # RM27MR, which is designed specifically for your Z71 and has removable arms for a clean look when you’re not towing. For the tow bar, the etrailer SD Non-Binding Tow Bar part # e74ZR is a great option and gives you a little built in rise or drop so you typically don’t need an adapter.

For braking, I like the portable systems like the Blue Ox Patriot part # BLU37TR since they’re easy to use and don’t require a permanent install. You will need a 12 volt outlet part # RM-9332 so it doesn’t drain the battery while in use.

For wiring, you’ll need the Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit part # RM-15267 so your Colorado’s lights work with your motorhome. Since the battery needs to be disconnected during flat towing, you’ll need two battery disconnects, one for each starter battery. For gas models you can use standard disconnects, and for diesel models you’d use part # RM93MR. Since you’re disconnecting the battery, you’ll also want a charge line kit part # RM-156-25 to keep the battery topped off while towing.

I know that’s a lot of pieces, but once it’s set up, it becomes very simple to hook up and go, and more importantly it keeps everything protected while you’re on the road.

What RV are you towing with, and where do you love taking it?

expert reply by: Heather A

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