Accessories

Pick Up A Quality Tow Bar: Adjustable for RVs and Trucks

Learn how to choose and use adjustable tow bars for safe flat towing. Compare top models, installation tips, and essential safety features.

Todd Bandel

08 Mar 2026 • 14 min read

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Spontaneous road trips hold a unique appeal. You pack up the motorhome, check the maps, and drive toward an adventure. But what happens when you need to bring along a smaller vehicle, maybe for errands or exploring, once you've parked the coach?

An adjustable tow bar solves this challenge. With the right setup, you can flat tow a car behind your RV without needing a separate trailer. These versatile devices work with Jeeps, trucks, SUVs, and other vehicles, letting you bring along the wheels you need while keeping your journey simple.

This guide walks you through everything required to choose and use an adjustable tow bar safely. You'll learn about towing capacity ratings, key features that ensure a secure connection, and how to set up your equipment for peace of mind on the road.

Understanding Towing Capacity: Why 5,000 lbs Matters

Towing capacity represents the maximum weight your tow bar can safely handle. Most adjustable tow bars are rated for 5,000 lbs, which covers a wide range of vehicles, from compact SUVs to mid-size Jeeps and smaller trucks.

Check your vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) before heading out. This number appears on a label inside the driver’s door. The weight of the towed vehicle must not exceed the towing capacity of the towing vehicle. If your towed vehicle weighs more than the tow bar’s capacity, or if you tow improperly, you risk causing damage to both the tow bar and the towed vehicle. The extra load puts unnecessary stress on all components in the system.

Safety cables add another layer of security. They provide backup support in case the primary connection fails. Most industry experts recommend using cables rated at least 20% above your vehicle’s weight.

Beyond the tow bar itself, consider tongue weight, the downward force the towed vehicle exerts on the hitch. A 5,000 lb tow bar typically handles up to 500 lbs of tongue weight. Distribute your load properly to avoid dragging debris or hitting the road surface.

Flat Towing Basics and Towed Vehicle Considerations

Flat towing, sometimes called dinghy towing, lets you bring a smaller vehicle along for the ride, with all four wheels on the ground behind your motorhome or RV. This method is a favorite among RV travelers because it’s simple, efficient, and allows you to explore new destinations without the hassle of a trailer. With the right RV tow bars and accessories, you can establish a secure connection that keeps your journey smooth and stress-free.

Before you hit the road, it’s crucial to make sure your towed vehicle is designed for flat towing. Not every car, SUV, or truck can be safely towed with all four wheels down, so always reference your vehicle’s manufacturer guidelines. Look for details about flat towing in your owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer directly by email or phone if you’re unsure. Many vehicles require a base plate, a custom-fit bracket that attaches to the frame and provides solid mounting points for your tow bar. Choosing a base plate specifically designed for your vehicle ensures a secure and reliable connection.

Safety is paramount when towing. A supplemental braking system is often required by law and is always recommended for peace of mind. Supplemental brakes help your towed vehicle slow down in sync with your RV, reducing wear on your coach’s brakes and improving overall control. Don’t forget safety cables; these act as a backup if the primary connection fails, keeping your towed vehicle safely attached and preventing dangerous situations on the road.

When selecting rv tow bars, pay close attention to towing capacity. Make sure the tow bar you choose is rated to handle the weight of your towed vehicle, including any gear you might be carrying. Adjustable tow bars with folding arms are a smart choice for easy storage, especially if space is limited in your RV. Look for models with corrosion-resistant finishes to protect against debris and harsh weather, ensuring your equipment lasts for many adventures.

It’s also worth exploring different tow bar features, such as adjustable arms for universal compatibility and quick-connect systems to reduce hook-up time. Brands like CURT and Demco Products offer a range of rv tow bars and accessories designed for easy use and maximum security. Before you purchase, check product reviews, learn about installation requirements, and make sure you have all the necessary accessories, like safety cables, supplemental brakes, and the right base plate for your vehicle.

Flat towing opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to enjoy the freedom of the open road while still using a smaller vehicle for local trips. By following manufacturer instructions, checking your towing capacity, and investing in quality equipment, you can ensure a safe, secure, and enjoyable towing experience. Ready to start your journey? Find the right RV tow bars and accessories, set up your secure connection, and hit the road with confidence, knowing you’re prepared for whatever adventures lie ahead.

Key Features of High-Quality Adjustable Tow Bars

Adjustable Width for Universal Compatibility

Width adjustment is perhaps the most valuable feature. The best tow bars adjust from 0 to 42.5 inches, fitting vehicles with different bumper configurations. This range lets you use one tow bar across multiple cars without needing separate equipment for each.

The arms typically slide along a track or use adjustable mounting points. GarveeTech's model offers this full range, while Reese Towpower adjusts from 26 to 41 inches. Both work well, but the wider range gives you more flexibility if you plan to tow different vehicles over time.

Before you purchase, measure the distance between your vehicle's mounting points. Some cars require a base plate, a metal bracket that bolts to the frame and provides attachment points for the tow bar. Jeep Wranglers often use these base plates for secure flat towing.

Built to Last: Alloy Steel Construction

Material quality directly affects durability. Look for tow bars made from alloy steel, which resists bending under heavy loads. Many manufacturers apply a powder-coated finish that protects against rust and corrosion.

Reese Towpower uses a black powder-coated finish on its steel tow bars, providing long-term protection. This coating withstands the elements better than standard paint, making it ideal for traveling through different climates and weather conditions.

The weight of the tow bar itself offers clues about construction quality. GarveeTech's model weighs about 28.66 pounds, light enough for easy handling but substantial enough to indicate solid engineering. Heavier doesn't always mean better, but extremely lightweight tow bars may lack the strength needed for demanding conditions.

Easy Installation Without Special Tools

Time matters when you're ready to travel. The best tow bars install quickly without requiring a full toolbox. Most models use standard bolts and brackets that attach to your vehicle's bumper or base plate.

Installation typically involves these steps:

Attach the mounting brackets to your vehicle's bumper or base plate
Adjust the tow bar arms to match your vehicle's width
Connect the tow bar to the motorhome's hitch receiver (designed for a 2-inch hitch ball)
Secure everything with safety pins and verify the connection

Some vehicles need custom base plates, which may require professional installation the first time. Once installed, the base plate stays on your car, making future hookups much faster.

Storage features also matter. GarveeTech's tow bar folds for compact storage when not in use, saving space in your RV. The lightweight design makes it easy to lift and position without assistance.

Safety First: Pins, Brackets, and Essential Upgrades

The Role of Safety Pins and Brackets

Safety pins prevent the tow bar from disconnecting during travel. These simple devices lock the tow bar to your vehicle, providing a secure attachment that won't loosen from road vibration.

Quality tow bars include safety pins as standard equipment. The pins typically slide through pre-drilled holes in the mounting brackets, then lock in place with clips. Check these connections before every trip, even a short drive requires proper safety measures.

Mounting brackets bolt directly to your vehicle's bumper or base plate. The strength of these brackets determines how well your vehicle withstands the stress of towing. Universal brackets fit most cars, but some vehicles benefit from custom-designed options that distribute force more evenly.

Why You Should Upgrade to Grade 8 Bolts

Standard bolts work for many applications, but towing demands more. Grade 8 bolts offer superior tensile strength compared to the Grade 5 bolts that often come with tow bars.

Customer reviews frequently mention this upgrade. One Smittybilt user noted: "I was very worried about the strength of the grade 5 bolts that came with the tow bar, so for an additional $25 I changed them all out to grade 8."

The investment is minimal, typically under $30 for a complete set, but the added security proves valuable. Grade 8 bolts resist loosening under vibration better than lower grades. Use castle nuts with these bolts for maximum security. The design prevents the nuts from backing off, even after thousands of miles.

Managing Safety Chains Effectively

Safety chains serve as your backup system. If the primary tow bar connection fails, chains catch the vehicle and prevent it from separating completely from your motorhome.

Most tow bars include one set of safety chains, but many experts recommend using two sets, one attached to the front of the towed vehicle and one to the rear. This dual-chain setup provides redundancy and helps keep the vehicle tracking straight behind your RV.

Chain length requires careful attention. Chains that are too short create tension and may break. Chains that are too long can drag on the road, creating sparks and wearing through the metal. Aim for enough slack to allow turns without excess length.

Some tow bar kits use carabiners to attach chains. Replace these with proper clevis hooks for a more secure connection. The investment in quality attachment hardware pays off through increased peace of mind.

Top Adjustable Tow Bar Comparisons

GarveeTech Adjustable Towing Bar

Bumper Mount 5000 LB w/ 2X Chains, Universal Towing Bar 5000 LBS Towing Capacity, Coupler Fits 2 in Ball Hitch ,Fit Tow Bars for Jeeps, Trucks, SUVs, RVs, Boat, Trailers

Amazon

GarveeTech: Best for Portability and Value

Price: $68.49
Weight Capacity: 5,000 lbs
Adjustable Width: 0-42.5 inches

GarveeTech offers exceptional value for budget-conscious buyers. At under $70, this tow bar delivers features typically found on more expensive models. The wide adjustment range handles virtually any vehicle configuration.

The folding design makes storage easy. When you're not towing, the bar collapses to a compact size that fits in most RV storage compartments. The 28.66-pound weight keeps it manageable for one person to handle.

Customer reviews average 4.5 out of 5 stars, with users praising the straightforward installation and reliable performance. The included safety pins and brackets provide everything needed for basic setup, though you may want to upgrade the bolts and purchase additional safety chains.

Reese Towpower 7014200 Adjustable Tow Bar

5,000 POUND CAPACITY: REESE Adjustable Tow Bar offers 5,000 lbs. of tow capacity to securely fit to the back of your vehicle, letting you pull another vehicle behind your car or truck.

Amazon

Reese Towpower: The Heavy-Duty Powder-Coated Option

Price: Around $81.94
Weight Capacity: 5,000 lbs
Adjustable Width: 26-41 inches

Reese Towpower series brings decades of industry experience to their tow bar design. The black powder-coated finish offers superior corrosion resistance, making this model ideal for coastal travel or areas with harsh winters.

The steel construction provides durability, as evidenced by customer feedback. Users report trouble-free performance over long distances, with one reviewer noting successful flat towing from Washington state with zero issues.

Installation remains straightforward. The mounting brackets bolt securely to your vehicle's bumper, and the package includes a 2-inch ball coupler, a pin, and a clip. Note that safety chains are sold separately, adding to the total cost.

SmittyBilt ADJUSTABLE TOW BAR KIT - SB87450

2" coupler, Two universal brackets, Two lateral strut brackets, D-Ring brackets (work on Smittybilt Bumpers only), Towing Vehicle Safety Chains

Amazon

Summit Racing Equipment

Smittybilt: Reliable Choice for Jeep Wrangler Flat Towing

Price: $164.32
Weight Capacity: 5,000 lbs GVW with 500 lb tongue capacity

Smittybilt designs specifically for Jeep owners. The tow bar pairs perfectly with Jeep Wrangler models, particularly when combined with compatible base plates and bumpers.

Customer reviews rate this model 4.6 out of 5 stars, with multiple users confirming excellent performance over thousands of miles. One driver covered nearly 5,500 miles in 13 days, pulling a 2011 Jeep Wrangler Sport without any problems.

The higher price reflects heavy-duty construction and mounting brackets designed for demanding use. While more expensive than alternatives, Smittybilt's reputation in the Jeep community makes it a trusted choice for flat towing these vehicles.

Like other models, consider upgrading to Grade 8 bolts and adding extra safety chains. The included chains work adequately but are shorter than some users prefer.

NSA RV - Ready Brute II Aluminum Tow Bar (8,000 lbs)

Lightweight yet heavy-duty aluminum self-locking tow bar with an 8,000 lb. towing capacity. Steel components are powder-coated for enhanced durability.

Amazon

NSA RV - Ready Brute II Aluminum Tow Bar (8,000 lbs)

Price: $872.00
Weight Capacity: 8,000 lb.
Adjustable Width: 26-41 inches

Telescoping arms are non-binding and use simple latches for easy release, making it easy to unhook the vehicle even after driving on uneven ground.

The tow bar easily folds up and stows securely on the motorhome receiver when not in use. Fits into a standard 2" receiver and includes necessary safety cables.

Features clevis connectors that rotate and swivel, allowing you to easily connect your towed vehicle on uneven surfaces (All-Terrain Tow Bar).

Practical Setup Tips for Your First Tow

Choosing the Right Hitch Ball

Most adjustable tow bars require a 2-inch hitch ball. This standard size fits the coupler that comes with the tow bar and provides reliable engagement.

Verify your motorhome's receiver hitch can accommodate the ball size. Most RVs use either 2-inch or 2.5-inch receivers. You may need an adapter if your receiver doesn't match the tow bar requirements.

The ball mount should position the tow bar level when connected. An angled connection puts uneven stress on the equipment and may cause premature wear. Adjustable ball mounts let you fine-tune the height and direction for optimal alignment.

Pre-Trip Safety Checklist

Confirm all bolts are tight and properly torqued
Check that safety pins are fully engaged
Verify safety chains or cables are properly attached at both ends
Test the connection by gently pulling forward to ensure everything holds
Make sure the towed vehicle is in neutral with the parking brake released
Verify that any supplemental braking system is active (if required by your state)

Some states mandate supplemental brakes on towed vehicles. These systems apply the towed vehicle's brakes in sync with the motorhome, reducing stopping distance and improving control. Check regulations for each state you'll travel through.

Breaking In Your New Tow Bar

The first few trips with a new tow bar require extra attention. Stop after 15-20 miles to recheck all connections. Road vibration may cause components to settle, and bolts can work loose during initial use.

After the first 100 miles, perform a thorough inspection. Look for any signs of wear, loosening bolts, or stress on the mounting brackets. Tighten everything to specification and continue with regular checks before each trip.

As you gain experience, you'll develop a rhythm for hooking and unhooking. What takes 20 minutes initially will eventually take less than five, letting you spend less time on setup and more time enjoying your destination.

Making the Right Choice for Your Adventures

An adjustable tow bar transforms how you travel with your motorhome. Instead of choosing between bringing a vehicle or leaving it behind, you can enjoy both the freedom of your RV and the convenience of a smaller car for exploring.

The models discussed here represent different priorities. GarveeTech delivers unbeatable value and portability. Reese Towpower offers time-tested durability with excellent corrosion protection. Smittybilt provides specialized engineering for Jeep Wrangler owners who demand reliable flat towing.

Regardless of which tow bar you choose, prioritize safety over savings. Upgrade to Grade 8 bolts, purchase quality safety chains, and never exceed the rated capacity. These simple steps protect your investment and ensure every journey ends safely, allowing you to relax and enjoy peace of mind at the end of a day's travel or towing.

With the right equipment properly installed, you’re ready to explore and be on your way with confidence. The road ahead holds countless possibilities, and your adjustable tow bar makes them all more accessible. With one click, you can order the tow bar of your choice.

Thank you for reading!

Your friend,

Todd

#TowBar 🚗 #AdjustableHitch 🔧 #TowingMadeEasy 🛻 #HeavyDuty 💪 #TrailerLife 🛠️ #RoadTripReady 🛣️ #HitchItUp 🚚 #VersatileTowing ⚙️ #AdventureGear 🌟 #HaulItAll 🚛

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