Charge Line Kit for Flat Towing a 2017 Ford Explorer Instead of Disconnecting Battery

Question:

We have 2017 Ford Explorer XLT which we are flat towing. If I have a charge line installed from the 7 pin on the motorhome do I still need to disconnect the negative terminal on the battery and if so why

asked by: Terry B

Expert Reply:

The reason many vehicles need the battery to be disconnected in order to flat tow it is to keep the battery from draining. Installing a charge line kit like # RM-156-25 on the vehicle and # RM-156-75 on the motorhome is another way to maintain the battery's charge.

However, in some cases the manufacturer requires the battery to be disconnected in order to prevent specific features on the vehicle from operating once it's setup to be towed. In this instance you will need to disconnect the battery or use an automatic disconnect like # RM-766.

Specifically, on your 2017 Ford Explorer the owner's manual states to disconnect the negative side of the battery. I can't recommend doing anything other than stated by Ford. However, you may be able to contact them and get a clear answer. They're ones who state it must be disconnected and in the event there was damage caused to the Explorer they'll also be the deciding factor on if it's covered under their warranty.

expert reply by: Charles S