Are Baseplates Required to Flat Tow a 2006 Jeep Wrangler
Question:
I am looking at the RM-020 to tow Jeep behind motorhome. I have been reading QandA and a base plate is recommended? Why cant I just bolt tow bar back plate to front bumper of the Jeep. When done towing, remove tow bar and leave back plate bolted to the Jeep?
asked by: Buck B
Expert Reply:
Most people prefer baseplates for appearance. They don't want to bolt a bracket onto the front of their car because they want the car to look like it originally did when they're driving it. But if you're not worried about the appearance there's no reason you can't bolt the crossbar of the Roadmaster Tracker # RM-020 to your 2006 Jeep Wrangler's bumper. Just make sure you have a good solid connection with the frame behind the bumper fascia.
Other components you made need to flat tow your Wrangler are safety cables, a lighting system, a ball mount, and a supplemental braking system.
For a lighting system the Roadmaster # RM-2120 is a great option for your Jeep. The lights completely bypass the Jeep's wiring and mount by using flaps that hook into the rear cargo area's hatch. You can use the Roadmaster safety cables, # RM-643.
For a supplemental braking system the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO # SM99251 is a favorite around here because of how reliable it is and it's easier to install than many other permanently installed systems. The best part is once it's installed you just leave it alone and let it do it's job. I've linked an install video of the DUO on a 2008 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited for you. The process will be very similar.
Finally, you want to make sure your setup is level. This may require an adjustable ball mount or at least one with the appropriate rise or drop. I've attached an article to help you determine the correct rise or drop your setup requires. I've also linked our selection of ball mounts for you to look at once you know what you need. Once you choose a ball mount you can then select a hitch ball that will fit it. Just check the ball mounts product page for related items.
In addition to my recommendations I've linked some articles on flat towing that you may find helpful.
Products Referenced in This Question
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 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 >
Demco Stay-IN-Play Duo Flat Tow Brake System for RVs w/ Hydraulic Brakes - Proportional
- Tow Bar Braking Systems
- Brake Systems
- Proportional System
- One Time Set-Up
- Fixed System
- Power Assist Brake Compatible
- Hydraulic Brakes
- Demco
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Roadmaster Tracker Tow Bar - Coupler Style for 2" Ball - 5,000 lbs
- Tow Bar
- Coupler Style
- Fixed
- Steel
- 5000 lbs
- Fits Roadmaster Base Plates - Crossbar
- Stores Separately
- Standard
- Roadmaster
more information >
Featured Help Information
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Miscellaneous Media
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