Tow Bar Type and Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2006 Honda CR-V

Question:

curious as to which system I should purchase. I think I would prefer coupler tow bar with removable base plate on car but welcome suggestions and which mfg. you recommend. Ill need entire system. I have a 1999 Discovery 36T diesel coach with Reese Hitch for towing 30foot trailer so I have a lot of experience towing if that matters. Thanks in advance

asked by: Tom

Expert Reply:

Coupler style tow bars are generally preferred as they are easier to store and don't require a ball mount with a hitch ball. They also provide a really solid connection. So based on that I would go with the Blue Ox part # BX7420 as this is a coupler style that's very easy to connect/disconnect. It has the same telescoping arms as the bar you mentioned and also comes with safety cables too.

For a base plate kit you'd then want the part # BX2238 and you'd be set in that regard as well. These have removable arms like you want as well.

For lighting you can use the diode kit, # RM-15267, and not have to worry about cutting into the taillight housing. This will splice into your taillight wiring to allow your tow vehicle to control the taillight assemblies of the towed vehicle. This comes with a round 6-way connector that you will install on the front of your towed vehicle and enough coiled wire to go from there to the RV.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking in the vehicle being flat towed. The easiest system to set up and use is the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR, that applies the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.

Most likely you will also need a high low adapter so that the tow bar will be level when you are flat towing. I attached a link to a page that has all of the ones we carry.

I have included a couple of helpful links to our articles on flat towing for you. Be sure to consult the vehicle owners manual for more specific information on flat towing your vehicle.