Base Plates, Tow Bar and Equipment Needed to Flat Tow 1998 Saturn SL2 Behind Motorhome  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

Both Blue Ox and Roadmaster make base plates for your vehicle that feature removable base plates. On your particular vehicle, the Blue Ox # BX3310 would be easier to install and the draw bars are easier to remove.

The Blue Ox Alpha tow bar, part # BX7380 would be a good choice for a tow bar, and it includes the safety cables. The towbar features automatically locking arms that allow you to attach the tow bar to the base plates even when the vehicle isn't perfectly lined up behind the motorhome.

For towbar wiring, the easiest solution would be a magnetic tow lamp set like # RM-2120. For a permanently wired solution, go with the # RM-154. Either alternative has its pros and cons. The magnetic set-up is very simple to use and it wouldn't require tapping into any of the Saturn's taillight circuits. However, some folks don't like the exposed wires. Using the # RM-154 is more difficult to install, and would require splicing into the taillight circuits, but once it's installed you'll only need to plug in the umbilical and you're done. A fuse bypass, part # RM76511 is also needed to prevent the battery from being drained while towing.

Finally, you'll need a supplemental braking system. The Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR is very simple to use. Set it on the floorboard in front of the driver's seat, attach the claw to the brake pedal, level the unit, plug the unit in and you're ready to go.

SL2 models with manual transmissions can be flat towed without modification, but I don't have any information about automatic transmission models. You'll want to check your owner's manual for more information. I've linked you to some FAQ articles with more information about flat towing.

expert reply by: Mike L

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