Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2004 Toyota Tacoma 4 Wheel Drive  

Question:

Expert Reply:

For flat towing your 2004 Toyota Tacoma 4WD you actually need a base plate kit and not a front hitch. A base plate kit is specifically designed for use while flat towing whereas front hitches are not designed for recreational towing.

You would need the part # 1159-1. In addition to the base plates, you will also need a compatible tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking to flat tow your vehicle. The most popular compatible tow bar is the Falcon 2, # RM-520. For safety cables you can use # RM-643. The coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground.

For lighting you can use the bulb and socket kit, # RM-155, and not have to worry about cutting and splicing into the vehicle wiring. For a 7-way to 4-way umbilical you will also need the # 787196.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking in the vehicle being flat towed. The easiest system to set up and use is the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR, that applies the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.

Most likely you will also need a high low adapter so that the tow bar will be level when you are flat towing. I attached a link to a page that has all of the ones we carry.

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.

expert reply by: Jameson C

0