Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2008 Mazda 3 Behind an RV
Question:
We have a 2008 mazda 3 will this tow bar be adequateto tow the vehicle behind a rv. and is it easy to install
asked by: Betty G
Expert Reply:
The Tracker tow bar # RM-020 has the capacity to tow the 2008 Mazda 3 behind your RV but Roadmaster does not offer base plates for the 2008 Mazda 3. You will need base plates so the tow bar has something to attach to. The only base plates for the vehicle are from Blue Ox, # BX2523. So instead of the Roadmaster Tracker you could use the Blue Ox Adventurer # BX7322.
Tow bars install easy. The base plates on the other hand are more involved. It is recommended to have them professionally installed if you do not have experience with installing base plates. I have linked the instructions so you can see what is involved with the installation.
In addition to the base plates and tow bar you will also need safety cables. I recommend coiled cables # RM-643 because the coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground.
You will also need a lighting system on the Mazda 3. You can use a simple magnetic kit such as # RM-2120. Or for a more permanent solution you can use diode kit # RM-15267.
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.
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.
Products Referenced in This Question
Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Blue Ox
more information >
Blue Ox Adventurer Adjustable Tow Bar - Coupler Style for 2" Ball - 5,000 lbs
- Tow Bar
- Coupler Style
- Fixed
- Steel
- 5000 lbs
- Fits Blue Ox Base Plates
- Stores Separately
- Standard
- Blue Ox
more information >
Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Splices into Vehicle Wiring
- Diode Kit
- Universal
- Tail Light Mount
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Standard Magnetic Tow Lights
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Bypasses Vehicle Wiring
- Removable Tail Light Kit
- 20 Foot Long Harness
- Universal
- Magnetic Mount
- 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 >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Roadmaster Tracker Tow Bar - Coupler Style for 2" Ball - 5,000 lbs
- Tow Bar
- Coupler Style
- Fixed
- Steel
- 5000 lbs
- Fits Roadmaster Base Plates - Crossbar
- Stores Separately
- Standard
- Roadmaster
more information >
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