Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2012 Ford F-150 Platinum  

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In order to tow your 2012 Ford F-150 behind your RV, you will need a base plate kit, tow bar, safety cables, tow bar wiring/lighting solution, and a supplemental braking system.

Starting with the base plates, if your F-150 Platinum has the EcoBoost or 6.2L engine, I recommend the Roadmaster EZ4 Base Plate Kit # RM-524431-4. If your F-150 Platinum does not have the EcoBoost, then I recommend the Roadmaster XL Base Plate Kit # 495-1A. Both of these base plates feature a nice, hidden bracket design that will provide a clean look when you aren't towing.

Then for a tow bar that will be compatible with either of the above mentioned base plates, I really like the Roadmaster BlackHawk 2 All Terrain Tow Bar # RM-422. This is an excellent tow bar with extra-long telescoping arms for better maneuverability and a non-binding design that will allow you to release your truck at any time, even on unlevel ground. It has a weight capacity of 10,000 pounds. For safety cables you can use the Roadmaster # RM-643.

Then for a lighting solution, I recommend the Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit # RM-15267. This diode kit will allow you to wire your F-150 to accept the RV's tail, brake, and turn signals when flat towing.

Then for a supplemental braking system, I highly recommend the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO # SM99251. This will give you automatic, proportional braking with its built-in inertia sensor that detects deceleration and signals the system to activate the brake pedals on your F-150 with proportionate amount of pressure. It is a one-time setup, as you do not need to remove or activate it each time you tow. You will just need to add the Brake-Lite Relay # RM-88400.

Lastly, you will likely need a high-low adapter in order to keep your tow bar level. I have attached an article that explains how to choose the best one for your setup along with a link that will take you to our available selection. I have also included installation instructions and videos for the products mentioned, along with a couple articles on flat towing that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Chris R

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