Base Plates, Tow Bar, Wiring, Safety Cables, Braking System to Flat Tow a 2003 Honda Accord

Question:

we would like to pull our 2003 Honda Accord 5 speed behind our 2001 30 ft Georgetown but not sure of all we need to purchase as far as towbar and accessories. Please let us know what we would need to safely pull from Alabama to Arizona.

asked by: CHRIS F

Expert Reply:

First, you will need to install base plates, # 1545-1, on your 2003 Honda Accord. This will provide an attachment point on the vehicle for the tow bar. Next, you will need a tow bar that is compatible with XL style base plates. There are numerous options and I have included a link to them. I recommend the RoadMaster Tracker Tow Bar, # RM-020, and the Roadmaster Tow Bar Quick Disconnect Kit, # RM-201, which will enable you to detach the removable portion of the base plates. I have included a link to the installation details for this tow bar. You could also use the Falcon 2, # RM-520, that you have referenced and you would not need the RM-210 quick disconnects.

To complete the towing set up for the Accord, you will also need safety cables, wiring, and a supplemental braking system as required by law. For safety cables, I recommend RoadMaster 64 inch Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables, # RM-643. For wiring, there are a couple of options. If you do not plan on towing the Accord very often, I would go with a magnetic light kit like # RM-2120. If you do plan on towing it frequently, it would beneficial to install diodes, # 38955. I have included a video along with a couple of useful FAQ articles on tow bar wiring that should help in choosing the best light kit for you along with how to go about wiring them.

For a braking system, The easiest to use and install is the Roadmaster Even Brake Portable Proportional Braking System, # RM-9400. This unit installs quickly so you are ready to go in minutes. It engages the towed vehicle brakes proportionally to how much the towing vehicle is braking, reducing wear of both the towing vehicle and towed vehicle brakes.

Finally, you will need to check with the manufacturer and/or your vehicle owners manual for instructions on the proper procedure for towing your vehicle because some vehicles must be equipped with a transmission lube pump, an axle disconnect, drive line disconnect, or free-wheeling hubs before they can be towed.