Base Plates and Equipment Necessary to Flat Tow 2003 Chevy Malibu Behind a Motorhome
Question:
where can i get the base plate for 2003 malibu
asked by: Doug M
Expert Reply:
We offer a Roadmaster base plate, part # 194-3 that's compatible with your 2003 Chevy Malibu. To use the 194-3 base plate with the # 63180 tow bar you mentioned, you'll need an adapter, part # RM-025. FYI, the # 63180 tow bar you referred to is only rated for 45 mph. My research indicates that your Malibu is capable of being flat towed, but there are specific procedures listed in the owner's manual that need to be followed closely. GM doesn't recommend towing at speeds greater than 65 mph.
If you were wanting to travel faster than 45 mph, you'll need to choose another tow bar. I'd recommend the Roadmaster Falcon Tow Bar, part # RM-520. Also recommended are safety cables like # RM-643. To make the wiring connection between the two vehicles, I'd recommend a Roadmaster Diode system like part # RM-15247. For a supplemental braking system, I recommend the Stay-IN-Play DUO, part # SM99251. It's permanently installed in the Malibu which is a bigger process than some systems but you don't have to reset it up each time you tow. To activate it you just flip a switch when you're ready. It also doesn't have to be removed to drive the Malibu.
When the tow bar is installed, you'll want the towbar to be within 3 inches of level. The base plates will be about 14 inches off the ground when installed, so depending on your hitch height you might need a high-low adapter. You'll need to determine the height difference between the hitch on your RV and 14 inches and then choose the proper high-low adapter to place the tow bar within 3 inches of level. I'll link you to our selection of high-low adapters.
I'll link you to some FAQ articles about recreational towing, I hope you'll find them helpful.
Products Referenced in This Question
Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Hitch Pin Attachment
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Base Plate Adapter for Tow Ready Tow Bar - Replacement Crossbar for Tracker Tow Bar
- Accessories and Parts
- Base Plates
- Tow Bar
- Adapters
- Drawtite to Roadmaster
- Roadmaster
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Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 4-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Splices into Vehicle Wiring
- Diode Kit
- Universal
- Tail Light Mount
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,000 lbs
- Tow Bar
- Hitch Mount Style
- Telescoping
- Steel
- 6000 lbs
- Fits Roadmaster Base Plates - Crossbar
- Fits Roadmaster Base Plates - Direct Connect
- Stores on RV
- Standard
- 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 >
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on Tow Bar
