Using Demco Towbar w/ Roadmaster Base Plates and Towing Equipment Recommended for 2016 GMC Canyon

Question:

I have a demco towbar that I want to use with a Roadmaster baseblate on a 2016 GMC Canyon 4x4. What is available to adapt the two?

asked by: Dennis

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Roadmaster # RM-032 Tow Bar Adapter would allow your # RM-523182-4 base plates to be used with a Demco Aluminator, Excalibar or Kwik-Tow tow bar.

My research indicates that 4x4 models of the Canyon that have the neutral and 4WD Low settings are capable of being flat towed, but I'd encourage you to check your owners manual for the specific procedure.

In addition to the base plates and tow bar, you'll need a few other items such as a wiring solution, a supplemental braking system, a battery quick disconnect and possibly a high/low adapter to ensure the tow bar is within 3 inches of level. According to Roadmaster, the base plates sit at 17-1/2 inches above the ground when installed (assuming stock tires and ride height). If there's more than a 3 inch difference in that height and the height of the top inside of the receiver on your RV, you'll need a high-low adapter to level the tow bar. I've linked you to our High-Low Adapter FAQ article.

For a wiring solution, I'd recommend the Roadmaster Diode kit, part # RM-15247. The kit includes the diodes to protect the taillights from feeding back, all the wire needed, a connector for the front of the Canyon and the coiled umbilical to connect the two vehicles.

The owner's manual states that the negative battery terminal needs to be disconnected. A quick disconnect like # RM-766 lets you disable the electrical feed without needing to go under the hood and bust out the wrenches. The # RM-766 is installed on the positive battery circuit, not the negative.

For supplemental braking I like systems that install into the vehicle permanantly. There's less set up each time you tow although you do have to deal with a more involve initial installation. The Stay-IN-Play DUO # SM99251 is a great option for your truck. It's probably the easiest to use since you only have to flip a switch to activate it when you're ready to tow.