Recommended Option To Flat Tow A 2017 Ford F-150 With 4 Wheels Down
Question:
Is it possible to dinghy tow a 17 F-150? If so, what all would I need?
asked by: Jerry
Expert Reply:
It is possible for you flat(dinghy) tow your 2017 Ford F-150 with 4 wheels down however, it must be a 4 wheel drive model. The 2 wheel drive models cannot be flat towed as it will cause damage to your vehicle's transmission. Please consult your vehicle's owner's manual for further information.
In order to flat tow your vehicle, you will need a few items. The five basic components of a flat towing system include base plates, tow bar, brake light harness, safety cables, and a supplemental braking system. I have attached my follow recommendations below for each component.
For a base plate kit, I recommend using the Roadmaster EZ5 Base Plate Kit part # RM-524431-5.The Roadmaster base plate kit features a detachable arm system for a more aesthetically pleasing look while not towing. You will also need a tow bar. I recommend using the Roadmaster Nighthawk All Terrain part # RM-676. This tow bar is a top of the line option with integrated self-aligning technology and hassle free latches.
As the Roadmaster Nighthawk includes safety cables, you will not need to purchase any additional cables. For a brake light wiring harness, I recommend using the Roadmaster Universal Hy-Power Diode Wiring Kit part # RM-152. The Blue Ox Patriot Portable Braking System part # BLU37TR and Roadmaster Brake-Lite Relay Kit for Towed Vehicles part # RM-88400 will also be suitable options for this setup.
You will also need a high-low adapter if the middle point on the base plate is not within 3" from the top of the hitch receiver on the RV.
I have attached a few product reviews and installation videos for your viewing in addition to our flat towing help articles.
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 Universal Hy-Power Diode Wiring Kit
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Splices into Vehicle Wiring
- Diode Kit
- Universal
- Tail Light Mount
- Roadmaster
more information >
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 >
Roadmaster Brite-Lite Wiring Converter
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Splices into Vehicle Wiring
- Tail Light Converter
- Universal
- 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 Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Roadmaster
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: Flat Towing Package for 2015-2018 Ford F-150
- Article: Roadmaster Vehicle Specific Base Plates
- Q&A: Does SMI DUO Stay N Play Create Vacuum for Vacuum Assist Brakes
- Article: Best Vehicles to Flat Tow Behind an RV
- Q&A: Is Diode Needed For 2022 Ford Expeidtion Using Brake-Lite Relay
- Q&A: Confirming Flat Tow Components for 2019 Ford F-150 4x4
- Q&A: Front And Rear Sway Bar For A 2016 Coachmen Leprechaun 319DS
- Q&A: How to Place Transfer Case in Neutral for Flat Towing a 2018 Ford F-150
- Q&A: Comparison Of SMI Stay-In-Play Duo And Roadmaster InvisiBrake Supplemental Brake Systems
- Q&A: Why Isn't Roadmaster InvisiBrake Supplemental Braking System Good For Mountainous Areas
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: Must-Have Flat Towing Components
- Article: How to Choose a High-Low Adapter
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch