Recommended Setup for Flat-Towing a 2018 Ford Explorer with 3.5 Liter Engine

Updated 05/02/2022 | Published 04/30/2022

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Invisible Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(728)

$469.15

etrailer SD Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,000 lbs

(331)

$846.62

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

(3358)

$181.95

Roadmaster Battery Disconnect for Towed Vehicle w/ Flat Tow Brake System - Gas Only

(401)

$227.18

Question:

I have a 2018 ford explorer 4wd with 3.5lt. Automatic can it be flat towed do not have owners manual

asked by: Jim C

Expert Reply:

Yes, I confirmed with your 2018 Ford Explorer manual that you can flat-tow your 3.5 liter Duratec/EcoBoost engine with all four wheels on the ground. In order to achieve this, you need a base plate, a tow bar, a tow braking system, safety chains, and vehicle tow wiring. I recommend the following setup:

- etrailer Invisible Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # e98962
- etrailer SD Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch # e34ZR (comes with safety cables)
- Brake Buddy Classic 3 Portable Supplemental Braking System # HM39494
- RoadMaster Wiring Kit # RM-152-98146-7 with Automatic Battery Disconnect # RM-766

The great thing about the etrailer base plate kit is that is simply installs into your Explorer's chassis. It comes with all required hardware. As far as the etrailer tow bar, it allows for you to easily release your vehicle even in uneven ground and simply slides into the RV's hitch receiver without the need of a ball mount. In addition, you will also receive the proportional action of the Brake Buddy Classic 3 which applies the Explorer's brakes at the same level that you apply the brakes to your RV. With the diode kit, this will allow you to connect your RV's tail, brake, and turn signal lights to your Explorer's lighting system.