Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2002 Ford Focus

Updated 03/06/2018 | Published 03/05/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster EZ Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(477)

$670.00

Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(397)

$1508.06

Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 7-Way to 6-Way Coiled Adapter Cord

(3186)

$179.96

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

(656)

$70.97

Question:

Do I need tow brackets that bolt onto the frame from underneath or can I bolt up my tow bar to my bumper?

asked by: Chris

Expert Reply:

If you are planning on flat towing your 2002 Ford Focus you have to use a base plate kit that attaches directly to the frame as you cannot use the tow hooks as a tow bar attachment point. As long as your vehicle is a manual the correct fit is the part # 52491-1. We do not have any fits for auto transmission vehicles.

In addition to the base plates, you will also need a compatible tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking to flat tow your vehicle. 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.