Swap Existing Demco Parts Parts to New Flat Tow Vehicle  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Some of the equipment you towed your MDX with can be used to now tow your F150. I will just list out all of the equipment you will need and you can check off the items that you already have.

First you will need a base plate kit unique to your F150. I would recommend the Demco # DM56MV Tabless Base Plate Kit. This will be compatible with your current tow bar, or an upgraded Demco tow bar.

Next you will need a tow bar. You report that you currently have a Demco Commander standard tow bar rated for a 6000 pound vehicle. The curb weight of your F150 is somewhere between 4500 to 5200 pounds. This is the empty weight without fuel, anything extra you installed, or what you throw in the bed of the truck. You could optionally upgrade to the Demco # DM9511013 “Excali-Bar III, which is a non-binding bar rated for 10,500 pounds. A non-binding tow bar will let you easily disconnect your tow bar even if your coach and towed vehicle is not on level ground or at a difficult angle. I also like that it includes safety cables and a tilting head that eliminates the need for a high/low adapter in most setups.

Next you will need a tow bar wiring kit. I recommend the Roadmaster # RM-152-98146-7 Universal wiring kit which includes everything you need to connect your RV's tail, brake, and turn signal lights to your towed car. Diodes prevent feedback and wire your car to operate as a combined system. Includes a 7-way to 6-way straight adapter cord. When you do finally get ready to plug your electrical cables in I would put a little Edelmann # 11755 dielectric grease on those connections. The dielectric grease will keep help keep moisture and corrosion out of your connections.

Your vehicle may need a Roadmaster # RM-751000 Brake Light Switch Kit . If the brake lights do not work with the towed vehicle's ignition key turned to the "tow" position, you need a brake light switch kit to provide a signal to the supplemental braking system.

Your F150 weighs in about 5000 pounds so you will need a supplemental braking system installed in it. You probably transfer your existing system from the MDX to the F150. This will improve braking and handling, and extend the life of your coaches braking system. Additionally, most states require supplemental braking if your towed vehicle is over 3000 pounds. If your coach has traditional hydraulic brakes then I recommend the Brake Buddy # HM39524 portable system that has proportional braking and has a wireless display for your cab so you can see your braking system status or change profiles from your driver's seat.

If your coach has air brakes, then instead of the Brake Buddy system, you will need the Demco # DM26VR supplemental braking system for air brakes.

I have attached an article below about supplemental braking systems.

Finally, you should double check your vehicles owner's manual to determine if your specific model vehicle can be flat towed and any special requirements in regard to fuses, equipment, and any additional service that may be required.

expert reply by: Les D

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