Base Plates Recommendation For Flat-Towing 2015 Subaru Forester Behind Motorhome

Question:

Hi, I have a 2015 Subaru Forester. I will be towing behind my motorhome. I have a Roadmaster Sterling All Terrain Tow Bar. I also have a Guardian Rock Shield. I have a Roadmaster Even Brake. I have been towing a 2000 Chevy Tracker. It has a RM Quick Disconnect tow bar with padlocks in the top pins. I have the cables with balls on the ends that feed into the channels on the car side. I have ordered from you a 52923-4 base plate and will be installing today. What else do I need to order to set up the Subaru for towing? My Tracker is in storage in Arizona and I am in Colorado, so I am not sure what parts are attached to the tow bar. Also, it looks like I might be able to use a RM-201 instead of the tow bar. If so, what parts would I need to use the RM-201. I use magnetic lights with a long cord that plugs into the motorhome, so no wiring is necessary.

asked by: Steve J

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you are familiar with flat-towing and you have nearly all of the equipment needed. Please keep in mind the base plates you ordered, part # RM-52923-4 are designed for your 2015 Subaru Forester if it is a non-Turbo engine and if it has a manual transmission. This base plate is compatible with all Roadmaster tow bars and Quick Disconnects.

I cannot recommend flat-towing your Forester if it does not have a manual transmission. You will want to check your owner's manual or with your dealership to make sure you can safely flat-tow your Forester. If your Forester is a CVT model I found that it cannot be towed at a speed higher than 20 mph and a distance no further than 30 miles.

Part # RM-201 is quick disconnect brackets designed to work with your tow bar and not designed to replace it.

I have attached a couple of helpful articles about flat-towing you can check out.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L