Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2009 Mini Cooper S56
Question:
Looking for the hitch and hardware to tow a Mini Cooper S56 4 wheels down as a dinghy/toad behind a 28 foot Fleetwood Tioga Ranger RV. The Mini is a 6 speed standard. I am hearing mixed messages as to whether this is possible. Please advise, Thank you!
asked by: Chris R
Expert Reply:
According to the owner's manual for the 2009 Mini Cooper it can be flat towed. There are a number of parts you're going to need in order to do this, starting with compatible base plates. I recommend the Roadmaster EZ Base Plate Kit # 521877-1, which will work with S models of the Mini Cooper so long as it does not have the Sport suspension or John Cooper Works. For a tow bar I recommend going with the Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar # RM-520; you will also need safety chains # RM-643.
For wiring that will allow your Mini's lights to function while being towed you can use the Roadmaster Tail Light Wiring Kit with Bulbs # RM-155. A supplemental braking system is a requirement in most states and I highly recommend the SMI Stay-IN-Play # SM99251 for this. This is a proportional braking system which is a one-time install which you can leave in so you'll never have to activate or deactivate it. You will need to use Roadmaster Stop Light Switch Kit # RM-751440 along with your supplemental braking system.
Finally, it is likely you will need a high-low adapter such as # RM-076 to keep your Mini level with your tow vehicle. The adapter you need is going to depend on some measurements you'll need to take. I have added a link to a help article on high-low adapters which explains the measurements you'll need, as well as a link to our page with our selection of adapters. I've also attached links to video reviews of the other aforementioned parts for you to take a look at.
Products Referenced in This Question
Roadmaster High-Low Adapter for Tow Bars - 2" Hitches - 6" Rise/Drop - 6K GTW, 200 lbs TW
- Accessories and Parts
- Tow Bar
- Hitch Adapters
- High-Low Adapter
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- 6 Inch Rise/Drop
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Tail Light Wiring Kit with Bulbs
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Bypasses Vehicle Wiring
- Bulb and Socket Kit
- Universal
- Tail Light Mount
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,000 lbs
- Tow Bar
- Hitch Mount Style
- Telescoping
- Steel
- 6000 lbs
- Fits Roadmaster Base Plates - Crossbar
- Fits Roadmaster Base Plates - Direct Connect
- Stores on RV
- Standard
- 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 >
Roadmaster Stop Light Switch Kit - Mini Cooper
- Tow Bar Braking Systems
- Stop Light Switch
- 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 EZ Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Roadmaster
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
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- Article: How to Choose a High-Low Adapter
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