Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2004 GMC Sierra 1500

Question

Question:

I want to tow behind my RV a 2004 GMC Sierra 1500. Im looking 4 a Blue Ox tow bar and electrical harness 4 lights?. What recommendations do u suggest?? Also suggest a Supplemental brake system

asked by: Ri S

0

Expert Reply:

In order to flat tow your 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 behind your RV, you will need a base plate kit, tow bar, safety cables, a lighting solution, and a supplemental braking system. I also recommend checking your owner's manual for the Sierra for any specific guidelines or restrictions when it comes to towing the truck with all four wheels on the ground.

Starting with the base plates, if your Sierra 1500 is the LD model, I recommend the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BX1682. If you have the HD model, you will instead need the Blue Ox # BX1660. Both models feature hidden reinforcements and removable bracket arms to provide a clean look when you aren't towing.

Then, for a great Blue Ox tow bar that will work nicely with the above base plates, I recommend the Blue Ox Alpha # BX7380. This 6,500 pound rated tow bar has a self-aligning design to allow for easy hookup and safety cables are included so they won't need to be purchased separately.

For a wiring kit/lighting solution, I recommend the Hopkins Custom Tail Light Wiring Kit # HM56101. This custom harness will plug into existing ports behind the truck's tail lights and provide you with a 4-Way flat connector to connect with your RV. This will wire the Sierra so that it accepts the RV's tail, brake, and turn signals.

Then for a supplemental braking system, I really like the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR. This is an excellent, proportional system that will physically press down on the brake pedal in your Sierra at the same time and with the same intensity that you apply to it in your RV.

Lastly, you will likely need a high-low adapter in order to keep the tow bar level. I have attached an article that explains exactly how to choose the best one for your setup, along with a link that will take you to our available selection. I have also included installation instructions and videos on the products mentioned and an additional article on flat towing that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Chris R

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Answer 1

A 2004 GMC 1500 Z71 can be flat towed if it's the 4WD model equipped with transfer case NP1, NP2 or NP8 but you'll need to complete the steps listed in your manual to get your vehicle ready to tow. To flat tow your vehicle you'll need a…

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Answer 2

Flat towing a vehicle behind a motorhome requires a few components. The linked article covers each of these items, which include the tow bar, safety cables, a wiring/lighting solution, base plates, a braking system and often a high/low hitch adapter…

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Answer 3

When it comes to choosing between the Blue Ox Patriot #BLU37TR and the Brake Buddy Select 3 #HM39524, these systems are extremely similar in their setup and functionality. Both of these systems provide proportional braking in a compact and easy to…

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Answer 4

Both the Roadmaster and Blue Ox tow bars are great options. But if it was my decision to make I would go with the Blue Ox Avail part #BX7420 as we have found that the Blue Ox tow bars are a little easier to connect and disconnect from. Also this tow…

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Answer 5

Gladly! The difference between the Blue Ox Patriot 3 Radio Frequency, Portable Braking System BRK2019 and the Blue Ox Patriot Radio Frequency, Portable Braking System #BLU37TR is that the Blue Ox Patriot 3 RBRK2019 is older, no longer available, and…

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Answer 6

If your current springs have 5 leaves then going to a 7 leaf spring will increase the height of the trailer a little and make the trailer more susceptible to sway. Regarding capacity if you go with springs rated higher than what is required it will…

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Answer 7

There is one key difference between the Blue Ox Patriot 2 Portable Braking System part BRK2016 and the Blue Ox Patriot 3 Portable Braking System part #BLU37TR. The difference is an extra safety measure built into the Patriot. The Patriot #BLU37TR has…

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Answer 8

There are a few differences between the Demco Demco Stay-IN-Play DUO Supplemental Braking System w/ Wireless Coachlink Monitor #DM86VR and the Roadmaster InvisiBrake Supplemental Braking System #RM-8700. The biggest difference between the two is…

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Answer 9

The first thing you'll need to flat tow your 2015 Chevy Malibu LS is a base plate kit like the Roadmaster part #RM-523178-5 that is a confirmed fit. In addition to the base plates, you will also need a compatible tow bar, safety cables, lighting,…

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Answer 10

If your old axles have a 5 bolt brake flange the assemblies like Dexter Electric Trailer Brake Assembly - 12" - Left Hand - 6,000 lbs part #23-105 or Dexter Electric Trailer Brake Assembly - 12" - Right Hand - 6,000 lbs part #23-106 will…

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Answer 11

To determine if your motorhome has the Tiffin air brake setup or Freightliner BrakeSync you'll need to look at the rear and see if there's an quick disconnect fitting for your air line. The standard Tiffin air coupler fitting would look like…

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Answer 12

I would be happy to confirm the parts you referenced fit your 2019 Chevy Colorado and are compatible together. I have listed them below, along with any changes, and attached installation videos. Roadmaster Nighthawk All Terrain, Non-Binding Tow Bar…

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