Can The Roadmaster StowMaster Tow Bar Be Used To Flat Tow A 2003 Ford F-150

Question:

I have a 2003 f150 4x4 extended cab short bed. I would like to know if the RM501 is what I need to flat tow it behind my RV with the 2-in ball. Also need to know if base plates come with the unit.

asked by: Richard B

Helpful Expert Reply:

The curb weight I'm seeing for a 2003 Ford F-150 is under 5k so the Roadmaster StowMaster Tow Bar # RM-501 is going to have enough capacity for it, as long as you don't also load up the bed too much. Baseplates are vehicle specific and wouldn't come with the tow bar so you can use the Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit # 456-15.

Tow bars must be level when connecting to the baseplate so you could potentially need to purchase a high/low adapter in order to keep it level. I've attached one of our help articles below to help you determine the correct size for your setup, if needed.

If you haven't picked out the rest of your flat towing components then I have the following recommendations for you:

Tow Bar Wiring Kit: Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit # RM-15267. This diode kit will splice into your Ford's tail light wiring to properly display your motorhome's traffic signals through the tail lights.

Braking System: Brake Buddy Select 3 Portable Supplemental Braking System # HM39524. This portable system will sit in front of the driver's seat and clamp onto the brake pedal in order to activate the brakes. It comes with a remote that shows you when the brakes are being activated and will also allow you to switch between braking settings. It also includes a charge line kit to help keep the battery charged while you tow.

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