Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2018 Ford Explorer
Question:
I have a new 2018 Ford Explorer Platium. Adaptive Cruise Control, 4WD, not sure if it has active air shutters, car is not here yet, 3.5 EcoBoost. I’m looking for your recommendations on a complete setup to tow this car behind an RV. Probably going to be gas and not air brakes. Ford recommends the battery be disconnected so I need to get around that also. Like to have 10,000 lb capability. Thank you for you assistance.
asked by: Ed D
Expert Reply:
In order to flat tow your 2018 Ford Explorer behind an RV, you will need a base plate kit, a tow bar, safety cables, a lighting solution, and a supplemental braking system. I do also recommend taking a look at the owner's manual for the vehicle (once it is in hand) before proceeding, as it will list any specific restrictions or guidelines when it comes to towing the Explorer with all 4 wheels on the ground.
Starting with the base plates, I recommend the Roadmaster EZ4 Base Plate Kit # RM-524446-4. This base plate kit is confirmed to fit the Explorer as long as you do not have the Active Air Shutters. These base plates feature a streamlined design for a really clean look when you aren't towing and a black powder coat finish to resist corrosion.
For a compatible tow bar, I recommend the Roadmaster BlackHawk 2 All Terrain # RM-422. This non-binding tow bar features extra-long telescoping arms to allow for better maneuverability and the 10,000 pound weight capacity that you are wanting. For the required safety cables, you can u se the Roadmaster # RM-653.
Then for a lighting solution, I really like the Roadmaster Diode Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit # RM-15267. This diode kit will wire your Explorer to accept the RV's signal lights for flat towing. It includes a 6-Way that you will install at the front of the vehicle, and enough coiled wiring to go from there to the 7-Way on the RV. Since you will need to disconnect the battery on your Explorer, you can add the Automatic Battery Disconnect # RM-766. This simple kit will let you easily disconnect the battery with just the flip of a switch.
The supplemental braking system that I recommend is the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR. This is an excellent, proportional system that will physically press down on the brake pedal in your Explorer at the same time and with the same intensity that you apply to it in your RV. You will need to add the Stop Light Switch # RM-751000 and the 12V Outlet Kit # RM-9332 for the system to work properly on your vehicle.
Lastly, you will likely need a high-low adapter in order to keep the tow bar level. I have attached a great article that explains how to choose the right one for your setup, along with a link that will take you to our available selection. I have also included an FAQ on flat towing that you might find helpful.
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 Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Splices into Vehicle Wiring
- Diode Kit
- Universal
- Tail Light Mount
- Roadmaster
more information >
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 >
Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster 80" Coiled Safety Cables - Double Hook - 10,000 lbs - Qty 2
- Safety Cables
- Coiled Cables
- 80 Inch Long
- 10000 lbs GTW
- Snap Hooks
- Coated Cables
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Universal Stop Light Switch Kit
- Tow Bar Braking Systems
- Stop Light Switch
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Battery Disconnect with Switch for Towed Vehicle w/ Flat Tow Brake System - Gas
- Accessories and Parts
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Auto Battery Disconnect
- 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
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on Base Plates
