Everything Needed to Flat Tow a 1996 Suzuki Sidekick 2-Door Behind an RV
Question:
I have. 96 sidekick 2 dr 4+4 wnt to install base plate I have stowmaster 5000 tow bar the crossovertube is open with a bracket welded on each side for bumper support which kit do I use 118-8 118-1
asked by: John
Expert Reply:
If the crossover tube on your 1996 Suzuki Sidekick 2-door is open you will need to use base plates # 118-3. But you mentioned that it is open with a bracket welded on each side. If that bracket is not blocking the openings on the crossover tube then # 118-3 is correct. I have included a link to the installation instructions for you.
The 118-3 base plates have a part of the bracket that looks like a tube that needs to be inserted into that crossover tube. If the ends are blocked then you would need # 118-15 instead.
For either set of base plates Sidekick owners like the Tracker tow bar, # RM-020, rated for 5,000 pounds. To make this tow bar and the base plate arms easily removable you will also need # RM-201.
You will also need safety cables. I recommend # Rm-643. the coiled design help keeps the cables off of the ground. For lighting you can use a magnetic kit such as # RM-2120. If your Sidekick has a soft top then you would also need tow partners # TLP01 to mount the magnetic lights.
You may also need a high/low adapter to keep the tow bar level. I have linked a help article showing how to measure and a link to the high/low adapters we carry.
And finally, most states now require supplemental braking on the vehicle being flat towed. One of the preferred systems for our installers and what I recommend is the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO proportional system, # SM99251. It will apply the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.
Be sure to consult your vehicle 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.
Products Referenced in This Question
Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Hitch Pin Attachment
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Tracker Tow Bar - Coupler Style for 2" Ball - 5,000 lbs
- Tow Bar
- Coupler Style
- Fixed
- Steel
- 5000 lbs
- Fits Roadmaster Base Plates - Crossbar
- Stores Separately
- Standard
- Roadmaster
more information >
Replacement Roadmaster Tow Bar Quick Disconnect Kit
- Accessories and Parts
- Tow Bar
- Quick Disconnects
- Car Side and Tow Bar Side
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Standard Magnetic Tow Lights
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Bypasses Vehicle Wiring
- Removable Tail Light Kit
- 20 Foot Long Harness
- Universal
- Magnetic Mount
- Roadmaster
more information >
RoadMaster 68" Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables - 6,000 lbs
- Safety Cables
- Coiled Cables
- 68 Inch Long
- 6000 lbs GTW
- Snap Hooks
- Coated Cables
- Roadmaster
more information >
Demco Stay-IN-Play Duo Flat Tow Brake System for RVs w/ Hydraulic Brakes - Proportional
- Tow Bar Braking Systems
- Brake Systems
- Proportional System
- One Time Set-Up
- Fixed System
- Power Assist Brake Compatible
- Hydraulic Brakes
- Demco
more information >
Magnetic Tow Light Partners (1 Pair)
- Accessories and Parts
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Magnetic Light Kits
- Magnets
- Custer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Hitch Pin Attachment
- Roadmaster
more information >
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