Base Plates, Tow Bar, Wiring, Safety Cables, Braking System to Flat Tow a 2004 Ford F-150 Heritage  

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Expert Reply:

The RoadMaster Blackhawk 2 All Terrain Tow Bar # RM-422, is a bolt on application designed to bolt onto a vehicle that is equipped with Blue Ox base plates. But first, you would need the base plates.

For base plates, you can use Roadmaster MX base plates, # 492-3. To install the base plates, trimming of spoiler, air dam, grille or plastic fascia may be required on some models of the 2004 Ford Heritage F-150. Base plate installation requires a good amount of mechanical experience and skill and Roadmaster recommends having them professionally installed.

To complete the towing set up for your truck, you will need safety cables, lighting, and a supplemental braking system as required by law. For safety cables, I recommend Roadmaster 80" Coiled Safety Cables - Double Hook - 10,000 lbs # RM-653. For lights, there are a couple of options. If you do not plan on towing the truck often, I recommend magnetic light kit # RM-2120.

If you do plan on towing it frequently, I recommend installing diodes, # 38955. I have included a video along with a couple of FAQ articles on tow bar wiring that should help in choosing the best light kit for your application along with how to go about wiring them.

For a braking system, the easiest to use and install would be the Roadmaster Even Brake Portable Proportional Braking System, # RM-9400. This system installs quickly so you are ready to go in minutes. It engages the towed vehicle brakes proportionally to how much the towing vehicle is braking, reducing wear of both vehicles brakes.

Finally, you will need to check with the manufacturer and/or your vehicle owners manual for instructions on the proper procedure for towing your vehicle because some vehicles must be equipped with a transmission lube pump, an axle disconnect, drive line disconnect, or free-wheeling hubs before they can be towed.

expert reply by: Michael H

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