Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2013 Chevy Spark with Manual Transmission
Question:
Hi, I just bought a Spark manual transmission, of course for a dinghy, and now need to choose the towing items for it. What do you recommend?
asked by: James A
Helpful Expert Reply:
I am happy to help you with the parts needed to flat tow (or dinghy tow) your 2013 Chevy Spark with manual transmission.
Starting with a base plate, I recommend a kit that features removable arms which will let the Spark keep more of its normal appearance when you're not towing it. Roadmaster kit # 523174-1 has such twist-lock arms that you can see in the linked photo; once you remove them the car's appearance is back to normal. The Falcon Tow Bar # RM-520 is a perfect fit with these base plates. You'll need safety cables too, part # RM-643.
For a lighting/wiring kit you have a lot of options that range from inexpensive (and easy to install) magnetic lights # RM-2120 to more intrusive installations such as diode kits like # RM-15267 that require cutting and splicing. I suggest the hassle-free magnetic light option since it costs less and is easy to replace if the need arises.
For a braking system for the Spark you again have a choice between portable and easily transferred systems like the Patriot # BLU37TR that you set up each time and others that require a one-time invasive installation that you do not have to do each time. All appear on the linked page. I recommend the Patriot # BLU37TR because you can easily move it to your next towed car (or sell it) and because no major modifications to the Spark are needed. You'll use 12V outlet kit # RM-9332 to power it.
You may also need a high/low hitch adapter like # RM-048-8 to keep the tow bar level when it is connected to the Spark and motorhome. You can refer to the linked article for specifics.
I also suggest review of your Spark owner's manual for any specific requirements or general guidance related to flat towing this car.
Products Referenced in This Question
Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Roadmaster
more information >
Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional
- Tow Bar Braking Systems
- Brake Systems
- Proportional System
- Recurring Set-Up
- Portable System
- Power Assist Brake Compatible
- Air Brakes
- Air Over Hydraulic Brakes
- Hydraulic Brakes
- Blue Ox
more information >
Roadmaster High-Low Adapter for Tow Bars - 2" Hitches - 8" Rise/Drop - 10K GTW, 400 lbs TW
- Accessories and Parts
- Tow Bar
- Hitch Adapters
- High-Low Adapter
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- 8 Inch Rise/Drop
- Roadmaster
more information >
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 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 >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Roadmaster
more information >
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