Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2017 Buick Enclave with Automatic Transmission
Question:
I have a 2017 buick enclave, I need to verify that I can tow it behind my new motorhome? Its a automatice trans, the tow bar you carry suggest its towable without a dolly, it this true?
asked by: David J
Expert Reply:
Page 297 of the online owner's manual for the 2017 Buick Enclave indicates that both the front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive automatic transmission versions can be flat-towed from the front(also called dinghy towing) but they CANNOT be dolly towed. Specific important preparation steps are needed at the start of each towing day and these are outlined on pages 298-300. You will want to check your own printed manual just in case it differs.
Flat towing requires a few items and all of these are outlined in the linked article concerning the basics of flat towing. This is a great place to get started. The items needed include a tow bar, base plates, safety cables, a wiring/lighting kit and a braking system for the towed car. A high/low hitch adapter is often needed to keep the tow bar level.
For base plates I suggest the Blue Ox # BX1708 and for a compatible tow bar their Alpha model # BX7380 which includes the required safety cables. For wiring/lighting you have many options shown on the linked page. These include simple and inexpensive magnetic lights such as # TL21RK and diode kits like # RM-154. The linked article will help you decide which you prefer.
For a toad braking system that can stay with you well into the future I suggest the Blue Ox Patriot braking system # BLU37TR. This wireless and portable braking system means no cutting into your new vehicle for installation. Set-up is quick and easy and the Patriot delivers reliable, safe proportional braking.
Products Referenced in This Question
Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional
- Tow Bar Braking Systems
- Brake Systems
- Proportional System
- Recurring Set-Up
- Portable System
- Power Assist Brake Compatible
- Air Brakes
- Air Over Hydraulic Brakes
- Hydraulic Brakes
- Blue Ox
more information >
Blue Ox Alpha 2 Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,500 lbs
- Tow Bar
- Hitch Mount Style
- Telescoping
- Steel
- 6500 lbs
- Fits Blue Ox Base Plates
- Blue Ox
more information >
Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 4-Way Flat Connectors
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Splices into Vehicle Wiring
- Diode Kit
- Universal
- Tail Light Mount
- Roadmaster
more information >
Heavy Duty Magnetic Tow Lights - 20' Wiring Harness with 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Bypasses Vehicle Wiring
- Removable Tail Light Kit
- 20 Foot Long Harness
- Universal
- Magnetic Mount
- Optronics
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Blue Ox
more information >
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