Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2000 Dodge Ram 1500 4x4

Updated 07/06/2011 | Published 07/04/2011

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(3327)

$670.00

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Fixed Arms

(372)

$581.61

Blue Ox Acclaim Non-Binding Tow Bar - Coupler Style for 2" Ball - Car Mount - 5,000 lbs

(234)

$544.39

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

(3186)

$100.94

Roadmaster Universal Magnetic Tow Lights with 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector

(43)

$83.50

Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,000 lbs

(402)

$850.00

RoadMaster 68" Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables - 6,000 lbs

(656)

$71.02

Roadmaster Even Brake Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(56)

$1930.00

Question:

I need to tow my 2000 ram 1500 4x4 behind a moving truck. What is the most economical tow bar system that comes complete? Thanks

asked by: Chuck

Expert Reply:

When flat towing a vehicle, there are 5 components that you will need. First, you will need to equip the tow vehicle with base plates. For the 2000 Dodge Ram 1500 4x4, you can use Blue Ox base plates, # BX1949, if you do not have a Sport model. If you do have a Sport model, use Roadmaster Base plates, # 249-6.

You will then need a compatible tow bar. For the Blue Ox base plates, I recommend the Acclaim Tow Bar, # BX4330, which comes with safety cables.

For the Roadmaster base plates, I recommend the RoadMaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar, # RM-520. I have incldued a link to the installation details and a video review of this tow bar for you to view. This tow bar does not come with safety cables, so I recommend the Coiled Cables, # RM-643. The coiled design will help keep the cables off of the ground.

You will also need a lighting solution for the truck. You can use a magnetic kit, like # RM-2120, or, for a more permanent solution, a diode kit, # RM-154. I have included a link to a video showing a typical diode installation.

Last, most states now require a supplemental braking system on the vehicle being towed. The easiest to install and use is the Roadmaster Even Brake Portable Proportional Braking System, # RM-9400. This is a proportional braking system that applies the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the towing vehicle is braking for safe braking that also saves wear and tear on both vehicles.

I have also included a link to our series of FAQ articles on flat towing for you to view.