Are US and UK Base Plates Different for a 2015 Smart ForTwo
Question:
Hi, I own a 2015 Smart ForTwo that I want to tow behind a small RV Winnebago Trend. While researching a flat tow solution, I came across a UK-based product, a tow bar that uses the cars tow eye bolt holes, built into the bumper crossmember, as the attachment points. The etrailer installation video shows there are two holes, even though on the exterior only the passenger side hole was made accessible. Are there differences in towing regulations between the U.S. and UK that prevent me from towing with the built-in tow attachment points? I can tell from the video that the Roadmaster base plate is a pretty robust unit and the attachment is very secure and clearly stronger than the stock 6 bolts that hold the bumper core to the frame. But if UK consumers can pull their Smart by the tow holes, is it OK for me to do so? More to the point, is such a product available in the U.S.?
asked by: James
Expert Reply:
There very well might be different regulations for flat towing a vehicle in the UK when compared to the the USA. In the USA there will also be regulations for each state so you will need to check with the local authorities of the states you will be traveling through when you plan your trip. Unfortunately, I do not have any exact information as to what those regulations might be as it can vary from state to state and from country to country. The other thing you will need to take into consideration is that vehicles made for the UK market can and most of the time are made with different features than those for the US market. Therefore, if a product is designed for a 2015 Smart ForTwo in the UK there is a chance it will not fit a 2015 Smart ForTwo in the USA.
The only type of base plate we have for your ForTwo is a frame mounted option like the Roadmaster EZ Base Plate Kit part # 52285-1. This base plate kit is designed specifically for vehicle's in the US market and has removable arms for a clean look while not in tow. The black powdered coated finish will ensure you do not run into any rust issues. I have attached a photo of this kit installed without the arms attached for you.
Please note that base plates and tow bars are not always cross compatible which means it is best to use the same manufacturer for both the base plates and tow bar. For a tow bar that will work with the above base plates I recommend the Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar part # RM-520 because it has self-aligning arms which will ensure you don't run into any binding issues. It also installs mostly on the motorhome so it will be easy to disconnect your toad with the included quick-disconnect brackets.
In order to complete your flat towing setup you will also need safety cables, a supplemental braking system, a wiring harness, and a possible high-low adapter. If you would like for me to make recommendations on these products then just let me know.
Products Referenced in This Question
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 >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Roadmaster EZ Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Roadmaster
more information >
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