Recommended Flat Towing Components For A 2016 Chevy Colorado 4x4

Question:

I have a 2013 Thor ACE motorhome, it only has the 4 pin trailer connector, I have a 2016 Chevy Colorado 4x4 truck, what parts would you recommend to be able to flat tow this vehicle, also might need the ability to tow a trailer with electric brakes on occasion. Thanks,

asked by: Robert J

Expert Reply:

To upgrade your 2013 Thor ACE motorhome's 4-way to a 7-way you'll need the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller # ETBC7. This kit will plug into your 4-way and require you to run additional wires for the battery (with a fuse), to the brake controller output wire, ground, and auxiliary power. I've attached a video below to help with this process.

Once the 7-way is installed you can begin with the flat towing side by getting a tow bar, base plate, tow bar wiring kit, braking system, and safety cables. I have the following recommendations for you below:

Tow Bar: etrailer SD Non-Binding Tow Bar # e74ZR. This tow bar will fit the Roadmaster base plates I recommended below and comes with safety cables so you won't have to purchase them separately. The head and shank are adjustable to help keep your tow bar level between the motorhome and Colorado.

Base Plate: Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM-523182-5.

Braking System: Since you're wanting to tow a trailer some of the time I recommend the Brake Buddy Stealth Supplemental Braking System # HM39530. This system comes with a brake controller that can be used for both your Colorado or a trailer so you'll kill two birds with one stone. It also comes with a portion of your tow bar wiring so you'll be able to spend a bit less on that as well. This system also comes with a charge line kit to keep your Colorado's battery charged as you tow.

Tow Bar Wiring Kit: All you'll need is the Roadmaster Universal Hy-Power Diode Wiring Kit # RM-152 for this since the Stealth comes with the 7-way cable and port.

You will also need to disconnect the battery while towing your Colorado so I recommend the Roadmaster Automatic Battery Disconnect with Switch for Towed Vehicle w/ Supplemental Braking System # RM-766 to make this as easy as flipping a switch.