Can 2016 Ram 1500 Automatic be Flat Towed Behind an RV and What Parts are Needed to Do So

Updated 10/11/2016 | Published 10/10/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Tow Dolly with Electric Brakes - 4,250 lbs

(9)

$3525.00

Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 4-Way Flat Connectors

(3249)

$100.94

Roadmaster EZ Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(478)

$575.00

Roadmaster 80" Coiled Safety Cables - Double Hook - 10,000 lbs - Qty 2

(91)

$118.92

Roadmaster Brake-Lite Relay Kit for Towed Vehicles

(711)

$44.50

Demco Stay-IN-Play Duo Flat Tow Brake System for RVs w/ Hydraulic Brakes - Proportional

(767)

$1175.00

Question:

I just bought 2016 ram 1500 with auto transmission. The owners manual says it can be pulled in neutral for short distance. Is this possible they are just on the safety side? Can it be pulled behind motor home safely on four wheels?

asked by: William A

Helpful Expert Reply:

The 2016 Ram 1500 can be flat towed with all 4 wheels on the ground only if it is a 4x4. If you have a 2-wheel drive Ram then it can be towed using a tow dolly with the REAR wheels off the ground. This is in the recreational towing section of the owner's manual, page 711.

If you do have a 4x4 then for base plates I recommend # RM-52289-4. And for a compatible tow bar I recommend the 10,000 pound capacity Blackhawk All-Terrain tow bar # RM-422. And for 10,000 pound safety cables I recommend # RM-653.

For lighting the 4-diode kit # RM-154 is a popular option. I have linked a video showing an example installation for you.

You may also need a high/low adapter to keep the tow bar level. I have linked a help article showing how to measure and a link to the high/low adapters we carry.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking on the vehicle being flat towed. One of the preferred systems for our installers and what I recommend is the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO proportional system, # SM99251. It will apply 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.

The # RM-88400 relay is required to prevent the towed vehicle's brake signal from overriding the turn signal from the RV when applying the brakes during a turn.

Be sure to consult your vehicle owners manual for specific information on flat towing the vehicle. I have also included some helpful links to our series of help articles on flat towing for you.