Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2015 Ford Focus Hatchback  

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Expert Reply:

To flat tow a vehicle you will need at least 5 items: base plates for the vehicle (its what the tow bar attaches to), a compatible tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking.

For base plates I recommend Blue Ox # BX2654. The Blue Ox base plates are generally easiest to install. Take a look at the instructions to determine if this is an installation you can take on at home. Usually we do recommend professional installation. For a compatible tow bar I recommend the Alpha, # BX7380 which includes safety cables so you will not have to buy any separately.

For lighting you have a couple of options. You can use a magnetic kit such as # RM-2120 which is quick, easy to install, and inexpensive. Or for a more permanent solution you can use # BX8869. You could then attach the wires from the bulb and socket kit (at the front of the vehicle) to the 6-Way included with umbilical kit # HM47054.

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 is the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO proportional system, # SM99251. 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.

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.

expert reply by: Michael H

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