Recommended Flat Towing Equipment For A 2021 Ford Escape PHEV

Question:

Ford has a neutral tow mode permitting to flat tow the Escape hybrid 2021. Where can I find how it works? Or can you give me a short explanation of what is really put in neutral? Thanks

asked by: Robert R

Expert Reply:

You'll need to look in your owner's manual under the "Recreationally Towing Your Vehicle" section. On the online manual I found this to be page 321. This will list out very specific instructions for you to complete to get your 2021 Ford Escape Hybrid ready to be flat towed.

To flat tow your Escape you'll need a tow bar, base plate, tow bar wiring kit, braking system, and safety cables. I have the following recommendations for you listed below:

Tow Bar: Roadmaster Falcon All Terrain, Non-Binding Tow Bar # RM-522. This tow bar feature non-binding latches and a large hookup radius to make connecting/disconnecting the tow bar on any terrain a breeze.

Base Plate: Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM39FR. These direct-connect base plates provide a quick and easy peasy connection to your tow bar. The arms are also removable to help maintain the factory look of your Escape when not in use.

Tow Bar Wiring Kit: Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit # RM-15267. This diode kit allows you to use your Ford Escape's tail lights and wiring system while preventing feedback from your RV.

Note: Since you have separate lighting, this kit will cause your brake lights to function as both brake and turn signal lights. A wiring converter # 118158 and 2 additional diodes # RM-792 will be needed if you want to retain separate turn and brake signals.

Braking System: Brake Buddy Select 3 Portable Supplemental Braking System # HM39524. This system offers intense, emergency braking or steady, smooth braking in a single portable system. Easily switch between proportional or full braking using the remote from the cab of your motorhome. The included charge line kit will keep your Escape's battery charged while you tow as well.

Note: The # RM-88400 relay is required to prevent the towed vehicle's brake signal from overriding the turn signal from the RV when applying the brakes during a turn.

Safety Cables: RoadMaster 68" Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables # RM-643. The coiled design of these cables will help prevent them from dragging on the ground and being damaged.

You may also require a high/low adapter to keep your tow bar level between the motorhome and your Escape. This will require some measuring on your part so I've attached our help article to walk you through determining the correct rise/drop needed for your application.