Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2021 Ford Escape and Who Could Install Them

Published 08/06/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(4620)

$497.42

Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(399)

$1489.90

Blue Ox Avail Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 10,000 lbs

(751)

$895.94

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

(3192)

$180.80

Question:

What kind of shop would I go to to have a blue ox base plate installed on a Ford escape? Would I look to a local body shop? Or does it have to go through an RV mechanic? I’m trying to get a sense of what that might cost before we make a new car purchase, but the first step is to figure out where I would get it done!

asked by: Jeff W

Expert Reply:

Base plate kits like the Blue Ox part # BLU55XR that fits your 2021 Ford Escape do not require a specialist at all. They are pretty basic and mostly just require removing some front fascia components and then attaching directly to the vehicle frame. So if you have a local buddy shop you trust they'd easily be able to handle the install. I attached an install video for this kit on a 21' Escape just like yours as well for you or your shop to check out.

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. One of the most popular compatible tow bars is the Blue Ox Avail # BX7420 which comes with safety cables. 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.