Roadmaster Coiled Safety Cables: 643-2 vs 653 & Routing Guide

When flat towing a vehicle behind a motorhome, safety cables provide a separate connection if the primary towing connection fails. Roadmaster offers coiled cables in different lengths, hook styles and weight ratings. The 643-2 and 653 both come as pairs with snap hooks at both ends, but they have different lengths and rated capacities. Choose by the actual loaded weight of the towed vehicle, the cable attachment points and the length needed through the complete tow-bar setup.

Roadmaster 643-2 versus 653

Both are galvanized steel cable kits with a protective vinyl coating and spring-latch hooks. Roadmaster supplies two cables and two quick links with each kit. The coiled sections contract when not stretched out, helping keep the cables away from the road when the towing arrangement has suitable attachment points and clearances.

Compare the two cable kits

643-2 — 68-inch double-hook coiled cables

A 6,000-lb-rated pair with hooks at both ends. Choose this length only if it can be routed correctly with enough room for turns.

View Roadmaster 643-2

653 — 80-inch double-hook coiled cables

A longer, 10,000-lb-rated pair for a towing setup that requires the additional length and suitable connection hardware.

View Roadmaster 653

How to determine the cable length you need

Measure the routing path between the specified safety-cable attachment points with the complete tow bar, hitch receiver and any height-adjustment accessories in place. The cables need enough freedom for the motorhome and towed vehicle to turn without pulling tight, but not so much slack that they drag across the road or rub against sharp edges. A longer cable does not compensate for an unsuitable attachment point or a low-rated tow bar.

Match the cable capacity to the weight of the towed vehicle with its contents and observe the ratings of the hitch, tow bar, baseplate and other towing components. The lowest-rated component still limits the towing arrangement.

Before every tow

1. Check that both safety cables are attached to the designated structural connection points and cross beneath the hitch where the Roadmaster instructions require it.
2. Check the quick-link closure and spring-loaded hook latches. Do not substitute ordinary carabiners for the specified safety-cable connectors.
3. Verify the cables cannot be pinched by the hitch or coupler, rub on moving components, or contact the roadway.
4. Confirm enough slack remains for the full turning motion without allowing excess cable to drag.
5. Inspect the cable, coating, hooks and connectors for wear, deformation or other damage; replace damaged parts before towing.

For help identifying the towing arrangement before selecting cables, see our Roadmaster tow-bar guide and crossbar versus Direct-Connect baseplate reference.