Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2017 4WD Ford Explorer
Updated 07/12/2017 | Published 07/11/2017
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Question:
I own a 2017 4wd Ford Explorer 3.5L ti-vct engine. Can I flat tow this behind my RV? I cant get a clear understanding by reading the owners manual. Thank you
asked by: Ron O
Expert Reply:
I did some checking and it looks like your 2017 Ford Explorer 4WD with a 3.5 liter engine is flat towable as-is as long as you follow the flat towing procedures outlined in the owners manual. Only restriction is that you have to stay under 65 mph and that you have to start the vehicle up at the beginning of each day for 5 minutes and let it run. As well as do that for every six hours of towing.
For a base plate kit there are two options to consider. Part # RM-524446-5 for if you have adaptive cruise control and part # RM-524445-5 for if you do not have it.
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 diode kit, # RM-15267, and not have to worry about cutting into the taillight housing. This will splice into your taillight wiring to allow your tow vehicle to control the taillight assemblies of the towed vehicle. This comes with a round 6-way connector that you will install on the front of your towed vehicle and enough coiled wire to go from there to the RV.
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.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Tow Bar Base Plate
- Removable Draw Bars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Partially Hidden
- Roadmaster
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