Items Needed to Flat Tow 2013 GMC Sierra 1500 4x4 Behind Motorhome

Question:

I am configuring my 2013 GMC Sierra 1500 4x4 for dingy towing. I want to confirm that the following items are what I need. Roadmaster MX Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms Item # 3154-3 Roadmaster BlackHawk 2 All Terrain, Non-Binding Tow Bar - Motor Home Mount - 2inch Hitch - 10K Item # RM-422 Roadmaster InvisiBrake Supplemental Braking System Item # RM-8700 RoadMaster BlackHawk 2 All Terrain Combo Towing Kit - 10,000 lbs Item # RM-9243-3 My RV is a Coachmen Freelander with a Ford 450 V 10, and it is already set up for towing, it has a 2 in. receiver and 7 /4 pin wiring.The previous owner used to dingy tow his jeep liberty. My Sierra is registered at around 7000 lbs. however I feel the extra capacity is a safety plus. are these items appropriate and am I missing anything important? Thanks

asked by: Joseph G

Helpful Expert Reply:

Flat towing a vehicle behind a motorhome, one such as your 2013 GMC Sierra 1500 4x4, does require a number of components, all of which are detailed in the linked overview article on flat towing. I also included articles on braking systems and hitch adapters, both of which are required items. The items include a tow bar, safety cables, a wiring/lighting kit of some type, a wiring umbilical and a braking system and base plates on the dinghy.

Roadmaster base plate kit # 3154-3 is a confirmed fit and the 10K-rated Roadmaster BlackHawk 2 All Terrain Tow Bar # RM-422 is an excellent choice - yes, safety margin is a good thing. For safety cables you can use # RM-653.

For a wiring/lighting kit you have many options shown on the linked page. The included article will help you choose the type of kit you prefer. Magnetic lights like # TL21RK are easy to use and inexpensive but diode kits like # RM-154 enable a one-time set-up. A wiring umbilical like # BX8861
will make electrical connection between the MH and dinghy easier.

For a braking system nothing beats the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR for convenience (it offers full portability and wireless installation) but you can instead use the Roadmaster InvisiBrake # RM-8700 if you prefer a permanent install. You'll also need Stop Light Switch # RM-751220.

A high/low hitch adapter will help if you need to level the tow bar. The bar should be no more than 3-inches above or below level at both ends. Please refer to the linked article on adapters, which you can view on the linked page.