Tow Bar, Base Plates, Safety Cables, Lighting and Braking to Flat Tow a 2010 Chevy Express Van  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Tow bars are not vehicle specific but they are base plate specific. Before you can flat to your 2010 Chevy Express Van, there are several things you will need. I have included a link to an FAQ article that covers the basic components you will need.

The base plates provide a safe and secure attachment point for the tow bar. For your van, you would need Roadmaster XL Base Plates, # 3140-1. You would then need a tow bar compatible with XL base plates. Since you have a rather large van, I recommend the RoadMaster Blackhawk 2 All Terrain Tow Bar, # RM-422, which is rated for 10,000 pounds. I have included a link to the installation details for you to view.

For safety cables, since the tow bar has built in cable guides, I recommend straight cables, # RM-645. For lighting, there are a couple of options. If you do not plan on towing the van often, I recommend magnetic light kit # RM-2120. If you do plan on towing it frequently, I recommend installing diodes, # 38955. I have included a video along with a link to our flat towing series of articles that also covers wiring.

For a braking system, the easiest to use and install would be the Roadmaster Even Brake Portable Proportional Braking System, # RM-9400. This system 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 vehicles 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.

expert reply by: Michael H

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