2017 Ford Explorer Towing Options Tow Dolly vs Flat Towing
Question:
My 2017 Explorer seems to be too wide to tow
asked by: Andy D
Expert Reply:
The Demco Kar Kaddy # DM9713045 has a maximum tread width for the vehicles it will carry of 76" wide; this is fairly common, and is the case with most of our tow dollies.Your 2017 Explorer is 78.9" wide and it is also close to the weight limit- possibly over, depending on what trim package you have on it.
Your best bet if you can't use the Kar Kaddy, if you have an RV with a hitch on the back of it, is to flat tow the 2017 Ford Explorer behind that. According to the owner's manual, there are a number of precautionary measures that need to be taken to do this depending on your trim package, motor and drive train-so I would recommend consulting with that before going this route.
With that being said, there are several different components you'll need to flat tow your vehicle: base plates, safety cables, tow bar, lighting and supplemental braking.
For your base plates, I recommend the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # BX2668 which are a fit whether or not you have adaptive cruise control. I recommend using the threadlocker # LT37420 with this installation and have attached a video to assist. Then for a tow bar, I recommend the Blue Ox Avail # BX7420 which comes with the safety cables needed.
For your tow bar wiring, I recommend the Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit # RM-15267. This system will give you a clean connection on the front of your Explorer and will utilize diodes to protect your factory wiring while still utilizing it for a clean look. You will also want the Roadmaster Automatic Battery Disconnect with Switch for Towed Vehicle w/ Supplemental Braking System # RM-766 because your battery will need to be disconnected each time and this system makes it so much easier and more convenient allowing you to simply flip a switch.
For your braking system, I recommend the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO Supplemental Braking System - Proportional # SM99251 . This system allows you to simply adjust once at installation and then you have a plug and play system that gives you reliable braking. It is our installation team's favorite to use because of the installation as well as the function. You will also need the Roadmaster Stop Light Switch Kit - Ford Explorer without Adjustable Pedals # RM-751478 .
Finally, you will need a high-low adapter. I've attached a link to your options as well as an article to help you determine the correct fit for your vehicles.
Products Referenced in This Question
Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Blue Ox
more information >
Blue Ox Avail Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 10,000 lbs
- Tow Bar
- Hitch Mount Style
- Telescoping
- Steel
- 10000 lbs
- Fits Blue Ox Base Plates
- Stores on RV
- Non-Binding
- Blue Ox
more information >
Loctite Threadlocker 262 - High Strength - Up to 3/4" Nuts/Bolts - 0.20-Fl-Oz Tube
- Lubricants Sealants Adhesives
- Sealant
- Nut and Bolt Sealant
- 0.2 oz
- Loctite
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 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 >
Demco Stay-IN-Play Duo Flat Tow Brake System for RVs w/ Hydraulic Brakes - Proportional
- Tow Bar Braking Systems
- Brake Systems
- Proportional System
- One Time Set-Up
- Fixed System
- Power Assist Brake Compatible
- Hydraulic Brakes
- Demco
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Demco Kar Kaddy SS Tow Dolly with Disc Brakes - Foldable - 4,800 lbs
- Trailers
- Tow Dolly
- Wheel Decks
- 4800 lbs
- Folding Tongue
- Cars/Trucks/SUVs
- 8-1/2W x 11L Foot
- Galvanized Steel
- Demco
more information >
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