Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2018 Ford Explorer with Adaptive Cruise Control

Updated 07/13/2018 | Published 07/11/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(4614)

$528.69

Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(397)

$1499.95

Blue Ox Alpha 2 Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,500 lbs

(451)

$712.24

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

(3186)

$180.17

Question:

Want to purchase 2018 Explorer Limited with 3.5 L TI-VCT engine and adaptive cruise control. Is the Blue Ox the only baseplate I can use?

asked by: Harvey S

Expert Reply:

For your 2018 Explorer Limited with 3.5 L TI-VCT engine and adaptive cruise control the Blue Ox base plate kit # BX2668 is the way to go as it fits your vehicle and will work well. The other options are not specific to you vehicle setup so the would not work.

For a tow bar you'd then want the Blue Ox part # BX7380 which is a very popular option that works well. It also comes with safety cables.

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.