Parts Needed For Flat Towing a 2012 GMC Acadia Denali

Question:

Hello I am looking to setup a 2012 GMC Acadia Denali to tow behind our RV. I am looking for your recommendation for the full setup, wiring, hitch, brake controller etc. I prefer a discrete baseplate that is not too visible when not in use so not to alter the aesthetics of the vehicle. I have seen on the internet Blue Ox BX1696 but do not see that on your web site. I found something for the 2012 Acadia but not sure it is compatible with the Denali trim. Thank you for your recommendations.

asked by: Mike P

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Roadmaster EZ Crossbar Style Base Plate Kit # 523149-1 is confirmed to fit your 2012 GMC Acadia Denali. This base plate does have removable arms allowing for a clean hidden appearance when not being flat towed. This will require a Quick Disconnect Crossbar Assembly # 910021-00 to connect to the Roadmaster Nighthawk All Terrain, Non-Binding Tow Bar # RM-676. This is their best selling tow bar thanks to the accent lighting and clean looks with the integrated cable guides for the safety cables and wiring.

The RoadMaster Nighthawk All Terrain Towing Combo Kit # RM-9284-2 will provide you with the wiring for the tail lights on your Acadia, a storage bag, tow bar cover, lube and locks to secure every while in tow. Your Acadia will require the removal of some fuses while flat towing or you do have the ability to install some switches which will allow you to disconnect the fuse with a flip of a switch. You will need the 50-Amp Roadmaster FuseMaster Fuse Bypass Switch # RM-76517 for the BATT1 fuse and 2 of the FuseMasters # RM76511 for the 15-amp ECM and 20-amp ECM1 fuses. Be sure to check your owners manual for the position and order these fuses must be pulled/turned off in the engine compartment fuse box. Finally a Charge Line # RM-156-25 will maintain your battery while being towed.

For the supplemental braking system I recommend using one of the Demco systems. The Stay-IN-Play DUO # DM86VR is for RV/Tow vehicles which uses hydraulic brakes. The Air Force One # DM26VR is for RV/Tow vehicles using air brakes. These systems get mounted on your Acadia and when your ready to tow you simply need to either connect the air line or flip on the switch and you are ready to flat tow. No large boxes or setup are required to be put in place every time you get ready to flat tow.

Finally you will need to measure your receiver height on your tow vehicle. This is needed to determine if you will need a High-Low adapter to get the tow bars within 3" of level from your tow vehicle to the Acadia. The baseplate measured 19" when installed in our shop. We have adapters is different heights like the 4" # RM-048-4 and 6" # RM-048-6 depending on how much drop/rise you may need.