Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2015 Ford Focus Hatchback
Question:
Is there additional mounting hardware needed for the car and can I install myself or should I see a professional?
asked by: Rob
Expert Reply:
To flat tow a vehicle you will need at least 5 items: base plates for the vehicle (its what the tow bar attaches to), a compatible tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking.
For base plates I recommend Blue Ox # BX2654. The Blue Ox base plates are generally easiest to install. Take a look at the instructions to determine if this is an installation you can take on at home. Usually we do recommend professional installation. For a compatible tow bar I recommend the Alpha, # BX7380 which includes safety cables so you will not have to buy any separately.
For lighting you have a couple of options. You can use a magnetic kit such as # RM-2120 which is quick, easy to install, and inexpensive. Or for a more permanent solution you can use # BX8869. You could then attach the wires from the bulb and socket kit (at the front of the vehicle) to the 6-Way included with umbilical kit # HM47054.
And finally, most states now require supplemental braking on the vehicle being flat towed. One of the preferred systems for our installers and what I recommend is the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO proportional system, # SM99251. It will apply the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.
Be sure to consult your vehicle owners manual for specific information on flat towing the vehicle. I have also included some helpful links to our series of help articles on flat towing for you.
Products Referenced in This Question
Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Blue Ox
more information >
Blue Ox Tail Light Wiring Kit - Bulb and Socket
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Bypasses Vehicle Wiring
- Bulb and Socket Kit
- Universal
- Tail Light Mount
- Blue Ox
more information >
Hopkins Nite-Glow Tow Bar Extension Cord w/ Socket - Coiled - 7-Way RV to 6-Way Round - 8' Long
- Accessories and Parts
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Adapters
- 7 Round - Blade to 6 Round
- Coiled Cord
- Hopkins
more information >
Roadmaster Standard Magnetic Tow Lights
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Bypasses Vehicle Wiring
- Removable Tail Light Kit
- 20 Foot Long Harness
- Universal
- Magnetic Mount
- Roadmaster
more information >
Demco Stay-IN-Play Duo Flat Tow Brake System for RVs w/ Hydraulic Brakes - Proportional
- Tow Bar Braking Systems
- Brake Systems
- Proportional System
- One Time Set-Up
- Fixed System
- Power Assist Brake Compatible
- Hydraulic Brakes
- Demco
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Blue Ox Alpha 2 Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,500 lbs
- Tow Bar
- Hitch Mount Style
- Telescoping
- Steel
- 6500 lbs
- Fits Blue Ox Base Plates
- Blue Ox
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Lippert Electric Trailer Jack with Footplate - A-Frame - 18" Lift - 3,500 lbs - Black
- Article: Tow Bar Wiring: Which Wiring Kit is for You?
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Search Results: easystart
- Video: MB Sturgis Propane - Regulators - 108221 Review
- Shop: 7- and 4-Pole Trailer Connector Socket w/ Mounting Bracket - Vehicle End
- Shop: Blue Ox 7-Wire to 4-Wire, Coiled Electrical Cord - 7' Long
- Shop: Blue Ox 7-Wire to 6-Wire, Coiled Electrical Cord
- Shop: Hopkins Nite-Glow Tow Bar Extension Cord w/ Socket - Coiled - 7-Way RV to 6-Way Round - 8' Long
- Search Results: hour meter
- Shop: Propane Hose - 1/2" Female SAE Swivel x 3/8" Male NPT - 6'
- Shop: JR Products Horizontal Low Pressure 2-Stage RV LP Gas Regulator
- Search Results: 44649
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Q&A: Wiring a Camper Shell Third Brake Light on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado
- Video: Choosing the Right Trailer Wiring
- Search Results: 68149
- Video: Choosing the Right Brake Controller
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Q&A: 10k Dexter Replacement Hub for a 8-415
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Search Results: 25580
- Q&A: Replacement Hub Needed for Lippert 122093 Hub on 5,200 lbs Axle
- Shop: Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 4-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Video: Roadmaster Automatic Battery Disconnect Installation - 2020 GMC Sierra 1500
- Q&A: How to Determine if Trailer Axle is Not Aligned and How to Measure to Replace Trailer Axle
- Search Results: dust cap