Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2001 Jeep Wrangler Using Blue Ox Base Plates and Tow Bar

Question:

buying 2001 or 2002 wrangler this week 02 has tube bumper 01 jeep bumper scored a used bx 1120 for $100 it needs nuts and bolts ordering 1 63 3289 2 61 3997 4 61 4029 i also found a bx 4325 aladdin class 3 5000lb for $185 it has safety cables and wires from jeep to rv what else do i need and part numbers brakes jeep wiring lights

asked by: Tom M

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you have the base plates, tow bar, and safety cables covered. The only items left are lighting and supplemental braking along with any incidentals that may be required.

For lighting the most popular option is a diode kit # RM-154. This kit has a 4-Way flat connector that will be at the front of the Jeep. You mentioned the tow bar has a wiring umbilical that goes from the RV to the Jeep but what kind of connector does that wiring require on the Jeep side?

You may also need a high/low adapter to keep the tow bar level. I have linked a help article showing how to measure and a link to the high/low adapters we carry.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking on the vehicle being flat towed. One of the preferred systems for our installers and what I recommend is the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO proportional system, # SM99251. It will apply the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.

The # RM-88400 relay is required to prevent the towed vehicle's brake signal from overriding the turn signal from the RV when applying the brakes during a turn. The RM-88400 relay is not required when using magnetic tow lights.

Be sure to consult your vehicle owners manual for specific information on flat towing the vehicle. I have also included some helpful links to our series of help articles on flat towing for you.