Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2017 Ram 1500 Longhorn

Question:

Looking for a base plate for a 2017 Ram 1500 Longhorn. I have A road master 5000 tow bar

asked by: Darrell T

Expert Reply:

For your 2017 Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn, I recommend the Roadmaster EZ Base Plate Kit # RM-52289-4. These base plates are compatible with your existing Roadmaster 5000 Tow Bar and feature a nice hidden bracket design that will provide improved aesthetics when compared to standard brackets. These are custom designed for your truck to ensure a perfect fit. All of the mounting hardware is included and I have attached the installation instructions for you to check out.

If you do not have them already, you will also need a safety cable set, lighting solution, braking system and most likely a high-low adapter to complete your flat towing setup.

For safety cables, I recommend the Roadmaster 68 Inch Single Hook # RM-643. These are sturdy cables with a weight capacity of 6,000 pounds.

Then for a lighting solution, I recommend the Optronics Heavy Duty Magnetic Tow Lights # TL21RK. These will allow you to have the necessary signal lights on your truck without having to splice into its wiring. The magnetic lights will provide a pair of stop, turn, and tail lights. The kit includes a 4-way flat connector to hookup to your RV.

For a braking system, I recommend the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO Supplemental Braking System # SM99251. This will give you a great proportional braking system that will never have to be removed, replaced or reset after the initial installation. You will also need to add an appropriate Stop Light Switch, depending on the type of pedals and shifter you have in your truck. For adjustable pedals with the electronic shifter, use # RM-751468. If your truck has adjustable pedals without the electronic shifter, use # RM-751461. If the truck does not have adjustable pedals but does have the electronic shifter, use # RM-751467. And lastly, for the Ram that does not have the adjustable pedals or the electronic shifter, you will use # RM-751460.

Finally, you will likely also need a high-low adapter to keep the tow bar level during your trip. I have attached an article that explains how to choose the correct one, along with a link that will take you to our available selection.

I have also attached video reviews and installation details on all of the products mentioned for you to review. An article on flat towing has also been included that you might find helpful.