Recommended Base Plates for 2018 Chevy Silverado 1500
Question:
Hi. What do you recommend for a base plates for my 2018 Silverado 1500?
asked by: Sol
Expert Reply:
For your 2018 Chevy Silverado 1500 I recommend the Roadmaster XL Base Plate Kit # RM-3176-1. I really like this particular kit because it features removable square drawbars that are held in place with a pin and clip. This allows for quick and easy removal of the drawbars that make the remaining brackets virtually invisible on the truck for a clean look when you aren't towing.
I have attached an installation video on an older model Silverado 1500 that you can take a look at for reference.
You may already have everything you need but just in case you don't I will make some recommendations to complete your flat towing setup. To pull your Silverado behind an RV with all 4 wheels on the ground you will also need a tow bar, safety cables, a lighting solution, and a supplemental braking system.
For a compatible tow bar I really like the BlackHawk 2 All Terrain # RM-422. This is a non-binding tow bar that will allow you to release your truck at anytime, even on unlevel ground. It features extra-long telescoping arms for better maneuverability and cable guides that will protect wiring and cables during travel. It has a robust 10,000 pound capacity. For safety cables part # RM-653 will work perfectly.
Then for a lighting solution I recommend the Roadmaster Diode Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit # RM-15267. This kit will let you wire the Silverado so that it accepts the signal lights from the RV while also preventing feedback from it. It includes a 6-Way connector that you will mount to the front of the truck and enough coiled wiring to go from there to the 7-Way on the RV.
It looks like you need to disconnect the battery on the Silverado for flat towing (check your owner's manual) so I also recommend adding the Quick Battery Disconnect with Switch # RM-766 to simplify this process. With the kit installed you will be able to disconnect the battery with the flip of a switch from inside the cab.
For a supplemental braking system I highly recommend the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO # SM99251. This is a fantastic proportional system that will activate the brakes on the Silverado at the same time and with the same intensity that you apply to them in the RV. The great thing about this particular system is that after the initial installation it requires very little attention as you transition back and forth between towing and every day driving.
Lastly, you will likely need a high-low adapter in order to keep the tow bar within the "Safe Zone" (3 inches above or below level). I have attached a great article that explains how to choose the best one for your setup along with a link that will take you to our available selection.
Products Referenced in This Question
Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Splices into Vehicle Wiring
- Diode Kit
- Universal
- Tail Light Mount
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster BlackHawk 2 All-Terrain Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 10,000 lbs
- Tow Bar
- Hitch Mount Style
- Telescoping
- Steel
- 10000 lbs
- Fits Roadmaster Base Plates - Direct Connect
- Stores on RV
- Non-Binding
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster 80" Coiled Safety Cables - Double Hook - 10,000 lbs - Qty 2
- Safety Cables
- Coiled Cables
- 80 Inch Long
- 10000 lbs GTW
- Snap Hooks
- Coated Cables
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Battery Disconnect with Switch for Towed Vehicle w/ Flat Tow Brake System - Gas
- Accessories and Parts
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Auto Battery Disconnect
- 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 Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Hitch Pin Attachment
- Roadmaster
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
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on Base Plates
