Base Plate Kit Recommendation for a 2000 Ford Ranger with a Blue Ox RangeFinder II Tow Bar

Question:

2000 Ford Ranger XLT-Have the Blue Ox Range Finder II #BX4322 tow bar, need the base plate that attaches to the truck. Do you have what I need?

asked by: Mike S

Expert Reply:

I believe the best option you have to flat tow your 2000 Ford Ranger would be the Roadmaster Base Plate Kit # 483-1 used with the Blue Ox Rangefinder II to Roadmaster Bracket Adapter # RM-037.

I spoke to my contact at Blue Ox and in order to get the Rangefinder II to work with the Blue Ox base plate kit you will need to modify it unless it was made before 2000. You would need to drill holes in the attachment points of the brackets and because of that I would recommend you go with adapter and Roadmaster base plate kit I recommended earlier.

When it comes to flat towing there are several components needed to do it safely and legally. You may be interested in the following products to complete your towing setup:

You will need a lighting solution for turn and brake signals, for that check out the FAQ article I attached that details how to pick out the best solution based on your specific needs.

You will also need safety cables. I recommend Roadmaster safety cables, part # RM-643. These are coiled so they will not drag on the ground.

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.