Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2015 F-150 Platinum 4x4
Question:
Owners manual says it is fine to tow with all four wheels on the ground. I would like to know what I will need tow my new truck behind my motor home. What wiring kit makes it easy to just hook up and go? What tow bar is best? What do I need to attach it to my vehicle? I prefer a more hidden set up instead of large mounts sticking out of the front bumper. What braking system should I use? This is a daily driver truck and I do not want something that will hinder normal operation. I am open to any option when it comes to braking and safety though. Thank you,
asked by: Michael A
Expert Reply:
First you will want to start with a base plate kit for your 2015 Ford F-150 Platinum 4WD. For that you would want the Roadmaster kit part # RM-524431-5 that has been confirmed as a fit for your vehicle. The arms of the kit are removable so when you aren't flat towing the vehicle you wouldn't have two large metal arms sticking out of the front of the vehicle.
In addition to the base plates, you will also need a compatible tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking to flat tow your vehicle. The most popular compatible tow bar is the Blackhawk part # RM-422. For safety cables you can use # RM-643. The coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground.
For lighting you can use the bulb and socket kit, # RM-155, and not have to worry about cutting and splicing into the vehicle wiring. You will also want the # RM-146-7 to connect this lighting solution to your tow vehicle. This comes with a round 6-way connector that you will install on the front of your towed vehicle and enough coiled wire to go from there to the RV.
And finally, most states now require supplemental braking in the vehicle being flat towed. An easy system to set up and use is the Blue Ox Patriot 3 Radio Frequency # BLU37TR and # RM-88400. This applies 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.
Most likely you will also need a high low adapter so that the tow bar will be level when you are flat towing. I attached a link to a page that has all of the ones we carry.
I have included a couple of helpful links to our articles on flat towing for you. Be sure to consult the vehicle owners manual for more specific information on flat towing your vehicle.
Products Referenced in This Question
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 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Kit
- Accessories and Parts
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Adapters
- 7 Round - Blade to 6 Round
- Coiled Cord
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Tail Light Wiring Kit with Bulbs
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Bypasses Vehicle Wiring
- Bulb and Socket Kit
- Universal
- Tail Light Mount
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Roadmaster
more information >
RoadMaster 68" Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables - 6,000 lbs
- Safety Cables
- Coiled Cables
- 68 Inch Long
- 6000 lbs GTW
- Snap Hooks
- Coated Cables
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Brake-Lite Relay Kit for Towed Vehicles
- Tow Bar Braking Systems
- Brake Light Relay
- Roadmaster
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Roadmaster BlackHawk 2 All-Terrain Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 10,000 lbs
- Tow Bar
- Hitch Mount Style
- Telescoping
- Steel
- 10000 lbs
- Fits Roadmaster Base Plates - Direct Connect
- Stores on RV
- Non-Binding
- Roadmaster
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: Roadmaster Vehicle Specific Base Plates
- Q&A: Does the RoadMaster Blackhawk 2 All Terrain Tow Bar # RM-422 Include the Crossbar
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