Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 1997 Ford Ranger with a Reese Tow Bar

Question:

Can base plates from a 05 ranger be modified to fit a 97 ranger or would the cost be prohibitive? I have a reese towbar at present with no base plate adaptors. Please advise me as to the cost of a complete towbar/base plate assembly.

asked by: Bruce W

Expert Reply:

A 2005 Ford Ranger and a 1997 Ford Ranger are different enough that you would not be able to use base plates from one on the other. You would need to get a new set for your 97, the Roadmaster XL Base Plate kit part # 435-3 would be an excellent choice.

Now to get these base plates to work work with your Reese tow bar # 63180 you would need the Roadmaster Base Plate to Tow Ready Tow Bar Adapter # RM-025.

For a lighting solution I would recommend the Hopkins Magnetic Tow Lights # C6304. For safety cables you can use # RM-643. The coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking in the vehicle being flat towed. The easiest system to set up and use is the Even Brake proportional system, # RM-9400, that applies the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the two vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.

I have included a couple of helpful links to our articles on flat towing for you. Be sure to consult the vehicle owners manual for more specific information on flat towing your vehicle.