Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2016 Lincoln MKX EcoBoost, Adaptive Cruise Behind RV with Aladdin Tow Bar

Question:

I have a 2016 Lincoln MKX with a 2.7 liter eco-boost engine and adaptive cruise control. I also have a Blue Ox Alladin tow bar which I had used with a previous application. I understand that Blue Ox does not have a baseplate which will work with my particular vehicle but Roadmaster does. What baseplate will work on my vehicle and is there an adaptor to allow me to use my existing tow bar or will I also need a new tow bar? In addition, I have a Air Force One brake system which I removed from my previous vehicle and will be installing it on my Lincoln.

asked by: Norm G

Helpful Expert Reply:

For your 2016 Lincoln MKX with EcoBoost motor and adaptive cruise control you can use Roadmaster base plates # RM-524447-4. In order to use these base plates with your Blue Ox tow bar you will need adapter # BX88178.

If you do not already have safety cables I recommend # RM-643. the coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground.

For lighting you can use diode kit # RM-15267 or if you will not be towing the vehicle often I recommend a magnetic kit # RM-2120.

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 since you already have it is the SMI Air Force One proportional system, # SM99243. 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.

The # RM-88400 relay is required to prevent the towed vehicle's brake signal from overriding the turn signal from the RV when applying the brakes during a turn.

The # RM-88400 relay is NOT required when using magnetic tow lights.

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.