How to Flat Tow a 2000 Chevy Astro Behind Farm Equipment at Under 30 Miles Per Hour  

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To flat tow your 2000 Chevy Astro behind the farm equipment you will first need base plates, # 3138-1. Then you will need a compatible tow bar. Given that you want to flat tow a short distance at low speeds you won't have to get the fanciest tow bar. I recommend using the Tow Ready tow bar # 63180 with adapter # RM-025. This tow bar has a maximum speed rating of 45 miles per hour so it is perfect for your low speed application.

I also recommend safety cables # C80176 rated for 7,500 pounds. For lighting you again won't need anything fancy, but if you are on the road at all the vehicle has to have lights on it. I recommend using a magnetic light kit # RM-2120. The farm equipment would have to have a 4-Way vehicle end wiring harness to operate the lights. If it doesn't you can splice in a 4-Way to the farm equipment's lights using # 18252.

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.

Most states require supplemental braking on a vehicle that is being flat towed. However, your situation is unique and you most likely will not need a braking system. But if you want to explore that option anyway 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.

expert reply by: Michael H

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