Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2004 Ford E150 Econoline Van Behind Motorhome  

Question:

Expert Reply:

We can help you with selection of each of the components required for safe and legal flat towing of a vehicle behind your motorhome. These include a tow bar, safety cables like the Roadmaster # RM-645 you referenced, a wiring/lighting solution, high/low hitch adapter, wiring extension and base plates and a braking system for the towed vehicle.

A good starting point for you is the linked article that covers each of these items in detail. You'll also want to check your van and motorhome owner's manuals. You'll need to make certain that the MH's hitch has the towing capacity required for the weight of your van. You also need to check your Ford manual to make certain that your particular van can be flat towed. Some transmission configurations can require a driveline disconnect or installation of a transmission lube pump before they can be flat towed without damage. The MH and auto makers can tell you the capacities for your particular vehicles as they are equipped.

For base plates I suggest the Roadmaster # 446-5 as they have removable arms that keep the van looking more like it's normal self. With these you can use their Falcon tow bar # RM-520. For safety cables use their coiled type # RM-643 that will not drag on the ground. For lighting use a simple and cost-effective magnetic base lighting kit like # TL21RK along with wiring extension kit # BX88254. For a braking system I suggest the Blue Ox Patriot wireless portable system # BLU37TR along with power outlet kit # RM-9332.

Tow bars need to be level or close to level to operate properly. Often a high/low hitch adapter is needed to keep the tow bar within 3-inches of level. These adapters can be seen on the link provided., such as Roadmaster High-Low Adapter # RM-076 which provides 6-inches of either rise or drop.

expert reply by: Adam R

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