VA-Apraisr
glen allen, VA
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Joined: 12/23/2004
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Seeking general estimates please. I know it will depend upon which brake system, tow bar, etc. but just wanted a general idea on the associated cost(s) to go from a tow-dolly to 4-down. Thinking of using RV more for travels and do NOT want to deal with the trailer anymore. Simple hookup and GO sounds a lot more fun and less stress. Thanks in advance for replies as always!!
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bobndot
USA
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Joined: 08/21/2007
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$2-3k. Its not so much about price vs ease of using.
For me flat towing is easier than using a dolly.
The ramps, tie-downs , trl registration and storage got to be too much work. I find the flat way is the best way.
If you can do the installation yourself. Electrical 12v hookup with a charge line included for the toad battery.
Installing the baseplate.
I use a Brake Buddy 2 which sits on the toads floor and presses the brake pedal. I can use that in any other toad. It uses a wireless signal from rv to toad. Gets its 12v power from a 12v port that you install under the steering wheel.
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docsouce
Seekonk Ma.
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Joined: 02/17/2017
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VA-Apraisr 2X. I have the same questions. I hope you don't mind if I add this question. IS an All-Terain better than a standard tow bar?
2020 JAYCO 26XD
Just right for the two of us!
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bobndot
USA
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AT. Yes. It takes a little practice to line the toad up to the rv.
I will find u a video.
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bobndot
USA
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https://youtu.be/k9dg6z2wX0k
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docsouce
Seekonk Ma.
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Interesting video Thanks.
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MDKMDK
Free(er), for now, until the next "variant"
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Joined: 10/15/2008
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I paid C$4500 for everything Blue Ox (base plate, tow bar, included parts, lighting/wiring, safety cables, umbilical, battery charge circuit, breakaway cable, Patriot II Braking System) profesionally installed by a Winnebago dealer in 2017.
I live in a country where everything is highly taxable, added to the usually higher retail prices. Your prices will be a lot less, I'm sure.
(Towed vehicle not included ![[emoticon]](https://forums.goodsamclub.com/sharedcontent/cfb/images/wink.gif "wink") )
Mike. Comments are anecdotal or personal opinions, and worth what you paid for them.
2018 (2017 Sprinter Cab Chassis) Navion24V + 2016 Wrangler JKU (sold @ ????)
2016 Sunstar 26HE, V10, 3V, 6 Speed (sold @ 4600 miles)
2002 Roadtrek C190P (sold @ 315,000kms)
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Y-Guy
Tri-Cities, WA
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Joined: 03/04/2002
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I spent about $2300 for my setup, but that included a new front bumper instead of a baseplate. Install took me a couple of days taking it slow. Quote I had would have added about another $2,000 in labor so I did it myself.
2007 Winnebago Sightseer 35J
2011 Jeep Wrangler
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bobndot
USA
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This my setup from 2018. There might be better but this is what I was able to get at the time. It works fine. As you practice setting it up it becomes easier. Like anything else, the more you do it....
Blue-ox combo , tow bar and baseplate
https://www.blueoxtowbars.com/products/B........_8tjp9QIV5waICR1VGA8yEAYYCSABEgJAefD_BwE
Brake Buddy 3
https://www.etrailer.com/Tow-Bar-Braking........e_dnp9QIV5QiICR3c4AiXEAQYAiABEgI2IfD_BwE
A blue ox wiring kit for the car from etrailer is $115
or just drill holes in the taillight housing and install a socket with matching bulb for rear lights .
If I feel the need for extra side marker lighting on the toad, I just turn on its parking lights. Run a charge wire to the toad battery . Group those wires to your harness from toad to rv.
My labor was not that much. My total was $3000 in N.H.
a Mechanic and helper took about 3 hrs.
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wanderingaimlessly
Buggs Island lake
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Joined: 08/23/2017
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Reading this has made me wonder something, I've not tried it, but may, would a 4 wire trailer plug and harness, with the same plug at both ends, be able to back feed your tail lights on the towed vehicle without needing to add other harnesses? Likewise would the same thing with 7 wire plugs on both ends maintain the towed battery?
Or do the electronics and diode setups in newer vehicles make that impractical?
Basically I'm asking about tying the trailer plugs on both a motorhome and towed together.
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