Installation of Roadmaster XL Base Plate Kit # 4415-1 on a 2009 Ford Taurus

Question:

I am interested in the Roadmaster Base Plate kit for towing my Taurus behind my motorhome. Can you provide some specifics on how the base plate mounts to the Taurus. Thanks

asked by: Dana J

Expert Reply:

The Roadmaster XL Base Plate Kit, part # 4415-1, will fit your 2009 Ford Taurus. It will not fit the Taurus X model.

The main receiver braces are bolted to the bumper core and the lower sub frame of your vehicle. The front fascia of your Taurus does need to be removed for installation of the receiver braces to your vehicle. A portion of the plastic absorption pad on the back of the fascia needs to be trimmed to allow clearance for the main receiver brace.The fascia will be reinstalled after the installation is complete.

I am including a link to the installation instructions of the #4415-1 base plates. The instructions are very detailed and show nice pictures of where the base plates are installed.

With the base plates installed you will then need a tow bar, safety cables, wiring, and a supplemental braking system as required by law.

I would recommend the Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar, part # RM-520, or any tow bar compatible with RoadMaster XL series brackets.

You would then need to add safety cables, like the Roadmaster Coiled Safety Cables, part # RM-643, as required by law.

You will also need a light kit for the Taurus. For a temporary lighting solution, use the Magnetic Towing Light Kit, part # RM-2120. These lights have a magnet that will stick to a flat metal surface and plug into a 4-flat on the tow vehicle. For a more permanent solution, I recommend the RoadMaster Tail Light Wiring Kit with Bulbs, part # RM-155. I am including a link to a FAQ page on tow bar wiring.

For a braking system, the easiest to use and install would be the Roadmaster Even Brake Portable Proportional Braking System, part # RM-9400. This system installs quickly so you are ready to go in minutes. It engages the towed vehicle brakes proportionally to how much the towing vehicle is braking, reducing wear of both vehicles brakes.

Finally, you will need to check with the manufacturer for instructions on the proper procedure for towing your vehicle because some vehicles must be equipped with a transmission lube pump, an axle disconnect, drive line disconnect, or free-wheeling hubs before they can be towed.

I am including a link to our series of FAQ articles on flat towing for you.