Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2017 Chevy Equinox Behind an RV

Question:

Need to tow my new 2017 Chevy Equinox behind my RV. These base plates say not for models with adaptive cruise control or active air shutters. I don't have adaptive cruise but not sure about active air shutters. Are those the ones that are motorized? If so it doesn't have that either.

asked by: S

Expert Reply:

You are correct about active air shutters; they are motorized. Since your 2017 Chevy Equinox does not have them or adaptive cruise control you can use Blue Ox base plates # BX1689. I have included a link to a video showing an example installation for you.

For a compatible tow bar I recommend the Alpha, # BX7380. This tow bar is rated for up to 6,500 pounds and it comes with safety cables.

For lighting I recommend the diode kit # RM-15267. It also comes with a coiled umbilical and a connector for the front of the vehicle. It also looks like a fuse has to be pulled to flat tow your Equinox. Consult the owner's manual to confirm. To make this process as easy as flipping a switch I recommend using fuse bypass # RM76511.

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.

The # RM-88400 relay is required to prevent the towed vehicle's brake signal from overriding the turn signal from the RV when applying the brakes during a turn.

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.