Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 1994 Ford F-150 Behind an RV

Question:

I am looking for a tow bar package Tow bar, safety chains, bumper mounting plates, etc. I have a 1994 Ford 150 Regular Cab 8 ft. bed 4X4. I am planning to transport two bar 200 miles the same vehicle. What is your recommendation? Also the Reese 63180 appears to be the most economical. Are the others that much better? If so, why? Are others limited to 45 mph as the Reese? It would just mean I would be in the right lane on the interstate at 45 mph which is doable your thoughts?

asked by: Gary C

Expert Reply:

If you want to use the Reese tow bar # 63180 for just a one time use then it would be a decent option. But if you will be towing your 1994 Ford F-150 frequently then this is not the tow bar I recommend. Part of it is the 45 mile per hour limit (other tow bars do not have this speed requirement). And part of it is the limited capacity (5,000 pounds). If you use this tow bar you will need to use an adapter, # RM-025, to mate it with the base plates.

I have a better recommendation I think you will like. First you will need the base plates, # 425-1. You can then use the Tracker tow bar # RM-020. This tow bar is also rated for 5,000 pounds but does not have a 45 mile per hour speed limitation.

For safety cables I recommend # RM-643 because the coiled design helps keep the cables off the ground. For lights you can save some money by going with a magnetic kit, # RM-2120, which will also bypass the vehicle wiring so you won't have to splice into it.

You may also need a high/low adapter to keep the tow bar level. I have linked a help article showing how to measure and a link to the high/low adapters we carry.

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.