Why Do I Need To Use A Base Plate Kit To Flat Tow 2001 Jeep Wrangler With My 2001 Dodge Ram 1500
Question:
I want to tow my 2001 Jeep Wrangler with my 2001 Ram 1500. I have found several tow bars that seem like complete kits. Then I found base plate kits for several of them. Why would I use or not use a base plate kit?
asked by: Mike
Expert Reply:
You would need to use a base plate kit to safely attach the tow bar and have a secure, safe towing setup to flat-tow your 2001 Jeep Wrangler with your 2001 Dodge Ram 1500.
Before towing, you will want to check the towing capacity of your Dodge Ram as you will not want to exceed it. You will also want to consult your Jeep manual for specific steps needed to take when flat towing. Some vehicles must be equipped with a transmission lube pump, axle disconnect or free-wheeling hubs before they can be towed.
For a base plate kit that will fit single tube or U-channel bumpers, I recommend the Roadmaster XL Base Plate Kit, part # 1420-1, which features removable drawbars, so that the base plate kit is less visible when the vehicle is not being towed.
In addition to a base plate kit, you will need a tow bar, safety cables, vehicle wiring or lights, and a supplemental braking system, if you do not already have these items.
The RoadMaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar, part # RM-520, is a recommended tow bar as it has a non-binding feature to make hooking up and disconnecting easier.
The Roadmaster 68 Inch Coiled Safety Cables, part # RM-643, would be a good option to keep your Jeep attached to your tow vehicle in the event that your tow bar were to become disconnected from your hitch.
For vehicle lighting, I would recommend using the Magnetic Towing Light Kit, part # RM-2120.
Most states require that you use a supplemental braking system when flat-towing a vehicle. I would recommend the Roadmaster Even Brake Portable Proportional Braking System, part # RM-9400. The Even Brake System will help you slow down and reduce the wear on the brakes of your truck.
I have linked instructions and a video review of the RoadMaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar, part # RM-520.
Products Referenced in This Question
Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Hitch Pin Attachment
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Standard Magnetic Tow Lights
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Bypasses Vehicle Wiring
- Removable Tail Light Kit
- 20 Foot Long Harness
- Universal
- Magnetic Mount
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,000 lbs
- Tow Bar
- Hitch Mount Style
- Telescoping
- Steel
- 6000 lbs
- Fits Roadmaster Base Plates - Crossbar
- Fits Roadmaster Base Plates - Direct Connect
- Stores on RV
- Standard
- 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 Even Brake Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional
- Tow Bar Braking Systems
- Brake Systems
- Proportional System
- Recurring Set-Up
- Portable System
- Not Power Assist Brake Compatible
- Air Brakes
- Air Over Hydraulic Brakes
- Hydraulic Brakes
- Roadmaster
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Roadmaster Base Plate Adapter for Tow Ready Tow Bar - Replacement Crossbar for Tracker Tow Bar
- Accessories and Parts
- Base Plates
- Tow Bar
- Adapters
- Drawtite to Roadmaster
- Roadmaster
more information >
Featured Help Information
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Miscellaneous Media
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