Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2013 Ford Explorer

Question:

I just purchased a 2013 Ford Explorer and want to know what is required to flat tow it behind my 2009 Winnebago Chalet. Previously we towed a 2003 Nissan Altima with a tow dolly. I think Ill need a base plate, some type of tow arm, and safety chains. How do I get the Explorer to brake...is there an electrical kit that needs to be hooked up? Thanks for the help

asked by: Jason S

Expert Reply:

We have everything you need to flat tow your new 2013 Ford Explorer with your 2009 Winnebago Chalet. Before we get into the parts that you will need, I recommend checking your owners manual for any restrictions or limitations for flat towing your Explorer. I did some research on your vehicle and the Explorer can be flat towed, but Ford may have specific procedures and restrictions for flat towing that will be listed in your owners manual.

There are 5 items that you will need to complete your flat towing setup - base plates, tow bar, safety cables, tail light wiring, and a supplemental braking system.

For base plates, you can use the Roadmaster XL Base Plate Kit, # 4427-1A, that you referenced. These base plates will fit models with and without the adaptive cruise control and they are also compatible with all Roadmaster tow bars.

Two popular Roadmaster tow bars are the Falcon 2 Tow Bar, # RM-520, and the Falcon All Terrain Tow Bar, # RM-522. These two tow bars are very similar with the main difference being the non-binding arms of the Falcon All Terrain tow bar. The non-binding arms make it easier to hook up and release your Explorer on uneven ground. I have attached links to these products for you to compare.

For safety cables, I recommend the Roadmaster Safety Cables, # RM-643.

You have many tail light wiring options available. If you will not be towing frequently, then I recommend looking at a temporary lighting solution, the Magnetic Tow Lights, # RM-2120. If you will be towing frequently, then I recommend installing the Roadmaster 6-Diode Universal Wiring Kit, # 154-792-118158, which uses your Explorers tail lights. These tail light kits come with 4-way flat trailer connectors, if your RV comes with a different style trailer connector such as a 7-way or 6-way connector, then you may need an adapter to allow your RV connector to be compatible with the 4-way flat connectors. I have attached a link to our trailer connector adapters for you to check out as well as 2 FAQ articles on tail light wiring.

Finally, most states now require the use of a supplemental braking system. The system that I prefer is the Roadmaster InvisiBrake Braking System, # RM-8700. This system only needs to be installed once and can be mounted under a seat or in the rear cargo area out of the way. After the system is installed, you will not need to make any adjustments and your vehicle will always be ready to be flat towed. I have attached a link to the Invisibrake system as well as a link to an FAQ article on braking systems for you to check out.

I have also attached a link to a flat towing overview article. If you are new to flat towing, the attached help articles should provide plenty of useful information.