Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2011 Ram 1500 Behind Motorhome
Question:
Hi, Im looking to get some information on a tow bar and brake control setup to pull my 2011 Ram 1500 behind my 2003 Newmar diesel pusher motor home. Any advice on where to start would be great thanks.
asked by: Jonathan S
Expert Reply:
If your Ram 1500 model is a 4x4, it is capable of being flat towed according to the procedure outlined in the owner's manual. 2WD vehicles should be towed using a trailer.
Assuming it's a 4x4, in order to flat tow your truck, you'll need a tow bar, base plates, safety cables, taillight wiring, a supplemental braking system and possibly a high/low adapter.
For a tow bar, I'd recommend the Roadmaster Nighthawk, part # RM-676. The tow bar includes safety cables and the umbilical and the wiring connector for the front of the truck. For base plates, use # 52289-1. For wiring, use # RM-154. You'll cut off the 4-pole and wire it into the connector included with the tow bar.
For a supplemental braking system, I really like a portable system like the the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR. With a portable system, you'll avoid a time consuming and expensive installation. You'll also be able to easily transfer the braking system to another vehicle in the future if need be. You'll also need a 12-v outlet kit, part # RM-9332 to provide power for the Patriot braking system.
Assuming that your Ram is at factory ride height on the stock tire size, the base plates will sit about 21-1/2 inches above the ground once installed. If this height is more than 3 inches higher or lower than the receiver height of your motorhome, you'll need a high/low adapter to bring the towbar within that range. I'll link to our selection of high/low adapters.
I've linked to some installation and product videos that you might find helpful.
Products Referenced in This Question
Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Roadmaster
more information >
Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional
- Tow Bar Braking Systems
- Brake Systems
- Proportional System
- Recurring Set-Up
- Portable System
- Power Assist Brake Compatible
- Air Brakes
- Air Over Hydraulic Brakes
- Hydraulic Brakes
- Blue Ox
more information >
Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 4-Way Flat Connectors
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Splices into Vehicle Wiring
- Diode Kit
- Universal
- Tail Light Mount
- Roadmaster
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Roadmaster Nighthawk All-Terrain Tow Bar w/ LED Lights - Non-Binding - RV Mount - 8,000 lbs
- Tow Bar
- Hitch Mount Style
- Telescoping
- Aluminum
- 8000 lbs
- Fits Roadmaster Base Plates - Direct Connect
- Stores on RV
- Non-Binding
- Roadmaster
more information >
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