What Parts Needed for Flat Towing a 2005 Saturn Ion

Question:

I live in Ohio and I am interested in the Roadmaster MX Base plate code #3136-3 and the Roadmaster tow bar code#RM-520 where can I have these installed I have a 2005 Saturn Ion,and also what else would I need? Brakes, Lights? Thank you

asked by: Larry c

Expert Reply:

The Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar, part # RM-520, and Roadmaster MX Base Plate kit, part # 3136-3 will work just fine with your 2005 Saturn Ion. If you will be towing your Saturn behind an RV or Motorhome, you may not need to have a brake system for the Ion. The Ion is small enough and light enough that an RV or Motorhome has sufficient stopping power for itself and the Ion, however, brakes are a good idea and are required by some state law and by some RV Manufacturer warranties. I will link you to a page with our brake systems on it and has more information about brake systems. You would choose according to the brake system on your RV or Motorhome.

Lights are definitely necessary. You can use a wiring kit like part # RM-155 to wire your RV/Motorhome lights to your Ion lights. If you do not want to go through the wiring process, you can also use a set of magnetic lights like part # RM-2120.

You will also need safety cables should the tow bar fail or un-couple from the RV/Motorhome. You could use part # RM-645, they are plenty strong for your Ion.

As far as your installation question, since we are a St. Louis, Missouri based company, we do not have any connections or recommendations for installers in your area. Any reliable mechanic that you use for automotive problems should have no trouble installing a set of base plates or even the wiring. If you have a basic set of hand tools and some mechanical ability, this project is something that you could do in your garage. I will send a separate email with a .pdf file of the install instructions of the base plate kit so you can have an idea of what is involved.

Some vehicles will require modifications in order to be flat towed without damaging the drive line. According to my research, the Ion can be flat towed without modification, but you should confirm this by consulting your owners manual or GM.