Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2017 Ford Explorer

Question:

I want to flat tow our 2017 Explorer. I’ve read some of the recommendations and it seems there’s no real issue with flat towing. The manual is vague to negative about the subject. Can the AWD Explorer be flat towed without damaging the transmission?

asked by: Richard D

Expert Reply:

From what I could find, you can flat tow your 2017 Ford Explorer as long as you have the 3.5L Duratec/3.5L Ecoboost. If you have the 2.3L EcoBoost then you cannot flat tow your Explorer.

If you have the 2017 Ford Explorer 3.5L Duratec/3.5L Ecoboost then you will need at least 5 parts to flat tow. Those parts are a base plate kit, tow bar, safety cables, tow bar wiring and a supplemental braking system. I have included those parts below, along with a brief description of their purpose.

Base Plate Kit: Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # RM-524446-5.
This is a custom fit part that provides attachment points on your Explorer for the tow bar.

Tow Bar: Roadmaster Nighthawk All Terrain, Non-Binding Tow Bar # RM-676
This is what will come from your motorhome and attach to the base plate kit to tow your Explorer. This tow bar also includes the safety cables, so you will not need to pick those up separately.

Tow Bar Wiring: Roadmaster Universal Hy-Power Diode Wiring Kit # RM-154 (if you have combined lighting) or # 154-792-118158 (if you have separate lighting)
This is what will allow you to use your Explorers tail lights and wiring system while preventing feedback from your RV. You will also need the Roadmaster Automatic Battery Disconnect # RM-766 for your Explorer.

Supplemental Braking System: Demco Stay-IN-Play DUO Supplemental Braking System # DM86VR.
This is what will allow you to travel with and safely stop your Explorer while flat towing.

You may also need a high-low adapter to keep your set-up level. I have included a help article that goes over how to determine this. I have also linked our selection of high-low adapters, so you can pick the correct one if it is determined that one is needed.

You will also want to consult the owners manual of your 2017 Ford Explorer to ensure you are doing everything that is recommended/required by the manufacturer for flat towing.