Parts Needed To Flat-Tow 2001 Ford Ranger
Question:
What do I need to tow a ford ranger with adjustable tow bars with a expedition 2003 ranger 2001 2 wheel drive
asked by: Erick
Expert Reply:
In order to safely flat-tow your 2001 Ford Ranger you will need 5 items. You will need base plates, a tow bar, safety cables, lights for the towed vehicle and most states now require a supplemental braking system.
If your Ranger is an Edge with the tow hook, I recommend part # 477-1. These base plates have drawbars that can be removed when not towing making the remaining hardware almost invisible.
If your Ranger is an XL or XLT, then the base plates I recommend is part # 483-1.
The tow bar I recommend is part # RM-501. This system has an Autowlok system that automatically centers and locks the arms as you drive, making the hookup easy.
For safety cables I recommend part # RM-643. These are coiled, 68 inch vinyl coated cables that have a spring hook on one end and a quick link on the other.
For lighting, I recommend part # RM-2120. These are removable lights that have magnetic bases.
The supplemental brake system I recommend is the Roadmaster Even Brake Portable System, part # RM-9400. This is a proportional brake system that requires no splicing or cutting into the Ranger wiring.
I checked the owner's manual for a 2001 Ford Ranger and if you have a manual transmission in your Ranger, there should be no issues flat-towing. If you have an automatic transmission, the manual states that the maximum distance you can safely flat-tow your Ranger is 50 miles, otherwise it can damage the transmission. If you are towing a longer distance than 50 miles, you will need to disconnect the driveshaft to prevent transmission damage.
I have attached some helpful articles and videos about flat-towing you can check out.
Products Referenced in This Question
Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Hitch Pin Attachment
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Standard Magnetic Tow Lights
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Bypasses Vehicle Wiring
- Removable Tail Light Kit
- 20 Foot Long Harness
- Universal
- Magnetic Mount
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster StowMaster Tow Bar - Coupler Style for 2" Ball - Car Mount - 6,000 lbs
- Tow Bar
- Coupler Style
- Telescoping
- Steel
- 6000 lbs
- Fits Roadmaster Base Plates - Crossbar
- Stores on Car
- Standard
- Roadmaster
more information >
RoadMaster 68" Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables - 6,000 lbs
- Safety Cables
- Coiled Cables
- 68 Inch Long
- 6000 lbs GTW
- Snap Hooks
- Coated Cables
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Even Brake Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional
- Tow Bar Braking Systems
- Brake Systems
- Proportional System
- Recurring Set-Up
- Portable System
- Not Power Assist Brake Compatible
- Air Brakes
- Air Over Hydraulic Brakes
- Hydraulic Brakes
- Roadmaster
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Hitch Pin Attachment
- Roadmaster
more information >
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on Base Plates
