Can I Flat Tow My 2003 Ford Ranger and 2004 Ford Taurus  

Question:

Expert Reply:

From the information I found, the 2003 Ford Ranger 4x4 model that is equipped with the manual transmission is able to be flat towed, but you would need to place the transfer case in two-wheel drive high and have the transmission in neutral. If your 2003 Ranger 4x4 has an automatic transmission it will not be able to be flat towed and would need to be on a trailer.

For the 2004 Ford Taurus, it is not able to be flat towed. To tow this vehicle, you would need to use a tow dolly like the Roadmaster Tow Dolly, part # RM-2050-1. You would also need a quantity of 2 of the Ultra-Fab Wheel Net, part # UF46-700034.

To tow a 2003 Ford Ranger 4x4 with manual transmission, you will need a base plate kit, tow bar, lighting or wiring, safety cables, and a supplemental braking system.

For a base plate kit, I recommend the Roadmaster kit, part # DM9518107, which will fit the 4X4 Ranger.

The Commander Tow Bar, part # DM9511012, is a good option for a tow bar. It's a non-binding tow bar which makes for easier hookup and disconnecting. This tow bar also includes safety cables.

For lighting, you could use the Magnetic Towing Light Kit, part # RM-2120. If you plan to tow your F-150 often, I would recommend the Roadmaster Universal Hy-Power Diode Wiring Kit, part # RM-154 as it would just plug into your vehicle each time you tow.

Most states require the use of a supplemental braking system when flat-towing a vehicle. I recommend the Blue Ox Patriot 3 # BLU37TR, which will help you slow down and reduce wear of the brakes on your tow vehicle.

You will want to contact your Ford dealership for additional steps needed to take when flat-towing. Some vehicles must be equipped with a transmission lube pump, axle disconnect or free-wheeling hubs before being flat-towed.

I have linked an FAQ Article on flat-towing vehicles.

expert reply by: Reno H

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