Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 1997 Dodge Dakota 2WD

Question:

Can I flat tow 1997 dodge dakota 2 wheel drive at highway speeds?

asked by: Jerry S

Expert Reply:

I can help you get all of the equipment that you need to flat tow your 1997 Dodge Dakota but for any speed restrictions you will need to either consult your copy of the owner's manual or contact your nearest Dodge dealer. I tried looking up the manual online but wasn't able to locate one.

For a complete flat towing setup you will need a base plate kit, tow bar, safety cables, vehicle tow bar wiring, a supplemental braking system, and possibly a high-low adapter. Some great, cost-effective base plate kit options come from Demco. Use part # DM9518037 with the Blue Ox Adventurer Tow Bar # BX7322 if your Dakota has a factory transmission cooler or use part # DM9517093 with the same tow bar is your Dakota does not have the factory transmission cooler.

Since the Kwik tow bar comes with safety cables the next thing that is needed is wiring. I recommend the Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit # RM-15267 because of how easy it is to plug up after you initially install it.

A lot of states now require that a supplemental braking system be used with a flat towing setup. The Blue Ox Patriot II # BLU37TR is a great option for your application because it is portable and very easy to set up. This system applies the brakes in your Dakota proportionally (at the same time and with the same intensity) according to your motorhome.

Most flat towing setups require a high-low adapter for the tow bar to remain level while towing. I have linked our selection of adapters for you to check out as well as an article that will help you determine which is the best one for your application.

Installation details and some helpful articles have been linked for you to check out, but you should also check with your owner's manual for any specific instructions regarding flat towing.