Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2001 Chevy Astro Van

Question:

SM99251 SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO Supplemental Braking System - Proportional - SM99251 Remove 1 Update 90195 Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional - 90195 Remove 1 Update 3138-1 Roadmaster XL Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms - 3138-1 Remove 1 Update RM-020 RoadMaster Tracker Tow Bar - 5,000 lbs - RM-020 Remove 1 hi want to tow 2001 astro van rr wheel drive, do I need anything else? thank you!

asked by: TIMOTHY C

Expert Reply:

You are on the right track but you would actually not need a brake controller as they are for activating trailer brakes and now the brakes of a supplemental braking system in a towed vehicle. The SMI part # SM99251 would cover all of that.

The base plate part # 3138-1 is the correct base plate to use with the Tracker part # RM-020 for your 2001 Chevy Astro Van.

You will also need safety cables. For that you can use # RM-643. The coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground.

For lighting you can use the diode kit, # RM-15267, and not have to worry about cutting into the taillight housing. This will splice into your taillight wiring to allow your tow vehicle to control the taillight assemblies of the towed vehicle. This comes with a round 6-way connector that you will install on the front of your towed vehicle and enough coiled wire to go from there to the RV.

Most likely you will also need a high low adapter so that the tow bar will be level when you are flat towing. I attached a link to a page that has all of the ones we carry. When the base plate is installed on your vehicle the tab height should be right at 16 inches. That will help pick out the correct high-low adapter when you compare that to the hitch height on your RV.

I have included a couple of helpful links to our articles on flat towing for you. Be sure to consult the vehicle owners manual for more specific information on flat towing your vehicle.