Can a 2002 Ford Explorer Sport Trac be Flat Towed Behind a Motorhome Using Factory D-Rings

Updated 07/11/2018 | Published 07/09/2018

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Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

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Roadmaster 64" Single Hook, Straight Safety Cables - 8,000 lbs

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Demco Stay-IN-Play Duo Flat Tow Brake System for RVs w/ Hydraulic Brakes - Proportional

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Question:

I have a 2002 ford sport trac 4x4. Came from factory with front D hooks for towing. It is missing them do you have a 1.5 inch male end with a pin hole for the receivers?

asked by: BILL

Expert Reply:

We have some D-rings mounted on shanks but none that will fit a 1-1/2 inch opening. I wish I had better news for you. But actually those D-rings would not be for towing your 2002 Ford Explorer Sport Trac. They are for vehicle recovery (like if you went off-roading and got stuck).

If you wanted to tow the vehicle behind a motorhome or another vehicle you will need to install base plates such as # 474-1 and use a compatible tow bar such as the Falcon All-Terrain # RM-522 with safety cables # RM-645. For lighting you can use # RM-2120 to save some money.

You may also need a high/low adapter to keep the tow bar level. I have linked a help article showing how to measure and a link to the high/low adapters we carry.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking on the vehicle being flat towed. One of the preferred systems for our installers and what I recommend is the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO proportional system, # SM99251. It will apply 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.

Be sure to consult your vehicle owners manual (see note below) for specific information on flat towing the vehicle. I have also included some helpful links to our series of help articles on flat towing for you.

NOTE: According to the vehicle owner's manual:

"RWD VEHICLES WITH 4X4 ELECTRONIC SHIFT TRANSFER CASE
AND AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:

4x4 vehicles with electronic shift on the fly cannot be towed with any wheels on the ground (with the exception of moving it as a disabled vehicle off the road out of traffic)."