What is Difference Between Roadmaster and Blue Ox Base Plate Kits for 2000 Toyota 4Runner

Question:

Hello: Looking to tow a 2000 Toyota 4Runner with 4WD, auto transmission, with manual transfer case. Considering the Blue OX Base Plate BX3736 or the Roadmaster Crossbar 1148-3. Is the only difference that the Roadmaster has removeable Arms whereas the Blue OX is fixed? Also, do you know what is the recommended Tow setting for this vehicle. I was told that the transmission needs to be set in park and the transfer case in neutral with the steering wheel unlocked.. Thank you

asked by: Joe M

Expert Reply:

The big difference between the Blue Ox base plate kit part # BX3736 and the Roadmaster part # 1148-3 that fit your 2000 Toyota 4Runner is that the arms of the Roadmaster are removable which gives the setup a more hidden look when not in use. That would be what I would want so that would be what I would recommend for you.

In addition to the base plates, you will also need a compatible tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking to flat tow your vehicle. The most popular compatible tow bar is the Falcon All Terain, # RM-522. This has non-binding arms which makes the setup very easy to connect/disconnect.

For lighting/safety cables, locks, and covers for the tow bar we have the Roadmaster Falcon All Terrain kit part # RM-9243-1 which comes with all of that as one part number. The diode kit that comes with this allows you to splice into the taillight wiring so that your RV controls the vehicle taillights and does not require drilling into the taillight housings. 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. Due to the age of your vehicle I was not able to find a copy online.