Tow bar and accessories

hark582 · 09-20-2011, 05:32 PM

Hi! I am looking into purchasing a vehicle to tow behind my motorhome. What items do I need to tow a 2011 Toyota Camry, manual shift? I have heard of Roadmaster and Blue OX but I don't know the pros and cons of each. In addition to the tow bar, I need a base plate. Is there anything else? Please advise.

Tha_Rooster · 09-20-2011, 05:59 PM

This must be your first, you will need lights. You can use magnet or diodes on car lights and auxiliary brakes if you choose. Just remember DON'T BACK UP while towing. I have a road master not that it's the best but just what I bought.

njs42 · 09-20-2011, 06:21 PM

First make sure it is towable---just because it is a standard does not necessarily mean it is. The manual will tell, and give a proceedure if required.

When you look at towbars you will also be looking at a compatible baseplate---it goes on the Toyota, usually by removing some of the front body panels, and provides the hook up point for the tow bar "arms". They protrude through the grill or at the bottom of the bumper.

Usually when the baseplate is installed (some people do their own) also installed is the wiring to use the Toyota brake and running lights by way of the plug usually found at the rear of MH's. When you hook up the tow bar you also plug in your lights.

You also need a braking system---not good to have what ever the Toyota weighs pushing against you at every stop and the occassion emergency stop.

Do a search of car towable four down---someone will have posted the website for checking to see if your car is towable 4 down.

Pros and cons---well I liked Blueox because when I got it it seems the installation was the cleanes---nothing hanging on the front of the car. Well it seems that many manufacturers have adopted efficient and attractive (if there is such a thing) tow bar set ups. So I think you just go on the websites and read there material talk to people who sell them and then decide.

But there are some style differences-----Readybrake seems to have a following because it is a simple surge system that combines the braking unit in the towbar meaning it saves money and is simpler to install.

lots of options---good luck.