Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2008 Jeep Rubicon

Question:

I purchased a used roadmaster towing system and what parts do I need to tow a 2008 Jeep 4-door Rubicon

asked by: Brandan

Expert Reply:

Without knowing everything you purchased I can just tell you all the parts you will need to flat-tow your 2008 Jeep Rubicon and you can purchase the missing pieces.

The first thing you will need is a base plate kit for your vehicle. For that I would recommend you get a Roadmaster XL Base Plate Kit # 1429-1 as long as you do not have any aftermarket bumpers, winches or guards.

The RoadMaster Sterling All Terrain Tow Bar # RM-576 that you referenced comes with safety cables, lighting wiring and quick disconnects.

Other than that you will need a wiring solution. Check out the FAQ I attached on picking out a wiring solution.

And finally, most states now require a supplemental braking system on the vehicle being towed. The easiest to install and use is the Roadmaster Even Brake portable proportional braking system, part # RM-9400. This unit activates the brakes on the vehicle being towed in proportion to how much the RV is braking. This is the safest type of braking action, and it reduces wear and tear on the RV and towed vehicle brakes.

You will also want to check the vehicle owners manual for additional information on flat towing the vehicle. Some vehicles require an axle disconnect, drive line disconnect, transmission lube pump, or free wheeling hubs in order to be flat towed.

I did some checking and here is what I found:

-2WD w/auto trans needs transmission lube pump.
-4WD auto with neutral position in the transfer case is flat towable. No neutral in transfer case is considered an AWD vehicle, and requires a trailer. You should confirm this with your owners manual.