Parts Needed to Flat Dinghy/Recreational Tow a 2016 or 2017 Ram 1500  

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Whether you have a 2016 Ram 1500 or a 2017 Ram 1500 we have exactly what you need!

A complete flat towing setup includes a base plate kit, tow bar, safety cables, vehicle tow bar wiring, a supplemental braking system, and typically a high-low adapter. If you go with a Big Horn, Laramie/Laramie Longhorn, Tradesman, or Limited I recommend the base plate kit # RM-52289-5. For a Rebel model I recommend part # RM-52299-5, and for a Sport or Express model I recommend part # RM-298-3.

Then for a tow bar I highly recommend the Roadmaster Nighthawk All Terrain # RM-676. It comes with safety cables, LED lights for other vehicles to clearly see the tow bar, and part of a wiring kit. To complete the wiring kit you need the Hy-Power Diode Wiring Kit # RM-152. I also recommend installing the Charge Line Kit # RM-156-25 to keep the battery on your Ram fully charged.

For the braking system I recommend the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO # SM99251. This is one of the most popular braking systems that we carry because it installs out of the way and is activate by connecting the breakaway switch and turning the unit on. To complete the installation you will need a stop light switch. These are different depending on what kind of pedal and shifter you have on your Ram so you will need to choose from the following:

Without adjustable pedals/without electronic shifter - # RM-751460
With adjustable pedals/with electronic shifter - # RM-751468
With adjustable pedals/without electronic shifter - # RM-751461
Without adjustable pedals/with electronic shifter - # RM-751467

Most flat towing setups require a high-low adapter for the tow bar to remain level while towing. I linked our selection of adapters for you to check out as well as an article that will help you determine which is the best one for your application.

You may also be interested in the Tow Bar Cover # RM-055-3 to help extend the life of your tow bar and the Tow Defender # RM-4750 to prevent road debris from hitting your new pickup.

I have also attached some videos and helpful articles for you to reference. Be sure to consult your owner's manual for any specific instructions on flat towing your Ram 1500.

expert reply by: Jon G

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