How to Flat-Tow a 2005 Ford Explorer 2WD

Question:

Greetings etrailer.com, What exact equipment do I need to purchase and install to flat tow bar a 2005 Ford Explorer 2 wheel drive behind a 2004 National Dolphin RV? Can in fact the 2005 Explorer be flat/bar towed? What are available options?

asked by: Kelly

Expert Reply:

According to the owner's manual for your 2005 Ford Explorer, the two wheel drive (2WD) models can be flat-towed with four wheels down but the drive shaft must be disconnected if you exceed 35 mph or travel for more than 50 miles. In order to flat-tow this vehicle you will need a base plate kit, tow bar, safety cables, flat-tow wiring, a supplemental braking system, and a possible high-low adapter. I have attached my recommendations on the following parts for you.

For a set of base plates I recommend using the Roadmaster MX Base Plate Kit part # 480-5 because the arms can be easily removed while not in use for a clean look. Then for a tow bar I recommend the Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar part # RM-520 which has telescoping arms for better maneuverability and a self-aligning design for easy hookups. You may also want to use the RoadMaster Release Tool part # RM-066 which helps you to release your vehicle from the tow bar. For safety chains you can use part # RM-643.

The Heavy Duty Magnetic Tow Lights part # TL21RK would then be used to signal those behind. These lights are cost effective, easy to use, and do not require any modifications to the tow vehicle. In order to activate the vehicle's brakes from the RV I recommend using the Roadmaster InvisiBrake Supplemental Braking System part # RM-8700. You would need to take a look at the attached article to see if a high-low adapter is needed.

Review and install videos are attached for you as well.