Parts Needed To Flat-Tow My 1997 Geo Tracker 2 door 4x4

Question:

Please advise what model # base plate, tow bar and wiring kit I should use on my 97 Tracker 2dr 4 x4. If the wiring kit might compromise the Trackers brake,tail and turn signal wiring I might opt for a separate magnetic lighting system, although I prefer the efficiency and uncluttered look of a wired system. Thanks for your advice.

asked by: Jim K

Expert Reply:

In addition to base plates, tow bar, and wiring, you will also need safety chains and a supplemental braking system to flat-tow your 1997 Geo Tracker 2 door 4x4.

The Roadmaster XL Base Plate Kit, part # 118-15, would be a good option for base plates for your Tracker. The XL Base Plate Kit features removable drawbars so that when the vehicle is not being towed, the base plates are less visible.

The tow bar you selected, RoadMaster Tracker Tow Bar, part # RM-020, would work to tow your Tracker, and is compatible with the XL Base Plate Kit. Another tow bar that I would recommend is the Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar, part # RM-520, which is non-binding tow bar. A non-binding tow bar makes for easier hook up and disconnecting of your Tracker.

For safety cables, you will need the Roadmaster 64 Inch Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables, part # RM-643. Safety cables will keep your Tracker attached to your tow vehicle if your tow bar were to disconnect from the hitch ball.

For lighting, you can wire your Tracker with the Roadmaster Universal Hy-Power Diode Wiring Kit, part # RM-154, which will activate the running lights, brake lights and turn signals of your Tracker when it is being towed. The other option would be to use the magnetic lighting system you referenced, Magnetic Towing Light Kit, part # RM-2120. If you are going to be towing your Tracker often, I would recommend part # RM-154 as it would just plug into your vehicle each time you tow.

It is also recommended to use a supplemental braking system when flat-towing a vehicle. Most states require that you use a supplemental brake system when flat-towing a vehicle. For this, I would recommend Roadmaster Portable Braking System, part # RM-9400, which will help reduce wear on the tow vehicles braking system and help you slow down.

Before towing your Tracker, you will want to contact your Chevrolet dealership for specific steps needed to take when flat-towing. Some vehicles must be equipped with a transmission lube pump, axle disconnect or free-wheeling hubs before being towed.

I have linked instructions for the RoadMaster Tracker Tow Bar, part # RM-020 and the RoadMaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar, part # RM-520, and a video review of part # RM-520. I have also linked a video installation of the Roadmaster Universal Hy-Power Diode Wiring Kit, part # RM-154, on a different vehicle that you may find as a good reference.