How to Flat Tow a 2019 Lincoln Nautilus

Question:

I have a 2019 Lincoln Nautilus Reserve AWD, with 2.7L engine. Could you please list the items I will need for a flat tow behind a motorhome with air brakes? I also intend to install a taillight wiring diode system. Do I need to disconnect the battery during towing? The owners manual and Ford do not require a battery disconnect but do require the manual park brake override.

asked by: Franklin D

Expert Reply:

From an online search for the 2019 Lincoln Nautilus Owners Manual, it lists that only the 2.7L model can be flat towed. You will want to look in your vehicle specific owners manual for instructions, this will be listed under Recreational Towing. From the copy I reviewed it states to use the manual park release procedure which is simply to switch the ignition on, press and hold the brake pedal then push the switch down until the red warning lamp turns off.

You will need 5 primary items for flat towing any vehicle, base plates to provide a mounting point for the tow bar, tow bar, safety cables, a wiring solution for the towed vehicles indicator lights and supplemental braking for the towed vehicle. For your 2019 Lincoln Nautilus I recommend I recommend the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit, # BX2680. This base plate has easily removable arms that offer a seamless look when you're not flat towing. Base plate bolts directly to your chassis, so no welding is required.

For a tow bar, I suggest the Blue Ox Avail Non-Binding Tow Bar, # BX7420 which comes with the needed safety cables.

For lighting you can use the diode kit, # RM-15267, and not have to worry about cutting into the taillight housing. This will splice into your taillight wiring to allow your tow vehicle to control the taillight assemblies of the towed vehicle. This comes with a round 6-way connector that you will install on the front of your towed vehicle and enough coiled wire to go from there to the RV.

For supplemental Braking System, the easiest system to set up and use is the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR, that applies the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.

I suggest that you use the Roadmaster Automatic Battery Disconnect with Switch for Towed Vehicle w/ Supplemental Braking System, # RM-766.

You may also need a high-low adapter because you want the tow bar to be within three inches of level when connections are made. I've added a link to a help article which shows you how to determine if you need an adapter, as well as a link to our selection of available adapters. Additionally, there are a few product review and installation videos linked below that I hope you will find of value.