Welcome to our Tow Bars category, where you'll find essential gear for safely towing your car or dinghy behind an RV or motorhome. These robust products, including universal and adjustable models from trusted brands like CURT and Blue Ox, support flat towing without trailers, making them ideal for RVers who want maximum fuel efficiency and simplicity on the road.
What Are Tow Bars and How Do They Work?
Tow bars are specialized hitches designed for flat towing, also known as dinghy towing, where the towed vehicle's front wheels roll freely on the ground. Unlike traditional trailer setups, tow bars connect directly to your RV's hitch receiver and the towed car's baseplate, allowing four wheels down towing. This category falls under Towing Products & Winches in our Exterior Accessories section, perfect for automotive enthusiasts upgrading their setup.
Key Features to Consider When Shopping for Tow Bars
When selecting a tow bar, prioritize weight capacity, ease of use, and compatibility. Most models here handle 5,000 lbs or more, suitable for cars, trucks, and SUVs. Look for:
- Adjustability: Pivoting arms accommodate different vehicle widths and heights.
- Coupler Size: Standard 2-inch ball couplers ensure secure connections.
- Safety Features: Integrated breakaway cables, LED indicators, and locking pins prevent accidents.
- Durability: Powder-coated steel resists rust and wear from road conditions.
- Class Rating: Class III for heavy-duty use, common in RV applications.
Pair your tow bar with Hitch Accessories like baseplates and wiring kits for a complete system. For alternatives, explore Hitches or Trailer Hitches if full trailers suit your needs better.
Featured Tow Bars: CURT and Blue Ox Standouts
Our selection highlights three reliable options. The CURT 19745 offers universal compatibility for flat or dinghy towing with a 5,000 lbs capacity and 2-inch coupler. Built by CURT, it's praised for straightforward installation and robust construction, ideal for occasional towers.
Blue Ox delivers two strong contenders. The BX4330 Acclaim Class III Tow Bar in sleek black features self-aligning arms for quick hookup, perfect for frequent RVers. Meanwhile, the BX7322 Adventurer Adjustable Tow Bar provides versatility with its height-adjustable design, suiting varied RV setups. Both exemplify BlueOx's reputation for innovation—check our BlueOx Tow Bars page for more from this leader.
Comparing them: CURT excels in universality, while Blue Ox models prioritize user-friendly adjustments and aesthetics. Choose based on your towing frequency and vehicle type.
Common Use Cases for Tow Bars
Tow bars shine for full-time RVers towing toad vehicles behind Class A motorhomes or fifth wheels. They're popular for cross-country trips where space and MPG matter. Use them for daily drivers like Jeeps or sedans in dinghy mode, or pair with tow hooks from our Tow Hooks & Straps category for emergency recovery. Always verify your RV's hitch rating and towed vehicle's manual for compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a tow bar and a trailer hitch?
A tow bar is for flat towing with all four wheels down, while trailer hitches use a raised platform. Tow bars save space and fuel but require a baseplate install.
Are these tow bars compatible with all vehicles?
No—check for baseplate compatibility. Universal models like CURT 19745 fit many, but Blue Ox options often pair best with their wiring and supplements.
Do I need additional accessories for tow bars?
Yes, typically a vehicle baseplate, safety cables, and supplemental braking system. Shop our broader Automotive range for full kits.
How do I install a tow bar?
Most bolt to your RV's 2-inch receiver. Follow manufacturer instructions; professional install recommended for baseplates on the towed vehicle.
What weight capacity do I need?
Match or exceed your towed vehicle's GVWR. Our Class III options handle up to 5,000-7,500 lbs safely.
