Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 1998 Toyota RAV4 Behind a 2004 Dodge Ram 3500 with a Truck Bed Camper  

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Before flat towing your 1998 Toyota RAV4 you'll want to verify with your owner's manual or with Toyota that it can be flat towed without causing any damage to it. From my research if it has a manual transmission there isn't a problem but the automatic transmission model cannot be flat towed with all 4 wheels on the ground.

To tow the RAV4 you'll need a base plate kit, tow bar, wiring to power the lights, a braking system, and likely a high-low adapter. Plus, in your case you may need an extension on the hitch to clear the camper.

The base plate kit designed for your Toyota is the Roadmaster # 1142-3. It's a custom fit and also pairs up with any Roadmaster tow bar. The most popular being the Falcon 2 # RM-520. You'll also need safety cables like # RM-643.

With its arms fully extended the Falcon 2 measures 50 inches from the hitch pin hole to the base pin hole when connected to a tow vehicle. This might be enough to clear the camper but not by a lot. You're going to want more clearance than that for turning.

The RAV4's lights will need to work in conjunction with the Ram's. The Roadmaster Diode Kit # RM-15267 will work great for you. It includes the cord to connect the two vehicles. For the additional 7-way connector in the truck's bed for the camper you can use # HM42137.

You're required by law to use a supplemental braking system in most states. The easiest we have to install is the portable systems like the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR. It runs off the RAV4's 12 volt power.

Finally, you'll likely need a high-low adapter. I've attached an article to help you determine the correct rise or drop your setup requires. I've also linked our selection of adapters for you to look at once you know what you need.

In addition to my recommendations I've linked some articles on flat towing that you may find helpful.

expert reply by: Charles S

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