Front Mount Trailer Hitch and Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2008 Ford Ranger 2-Wheel Drive

Updated 12/04/2013 | Published 12/02/2013

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Front Mount Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - 2"

(25)

$305.32

Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(2164)

$575.00

Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(2164)

$575.00

Roadmaster Universal Magnetic Tow Lights with 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector

(44)

$85.81

Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,000 lbs

(415)

$850.00

RoadMaster 68" Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables - 6,000 lbs

(667)

$60.90

Roadmaster InvisiBrake Flat Tow Brake System - Preset

(299)

$1380.00

Question:

my ranger is a 2 wheel drive with ext. cab not a 4 wd. I need to know if this part # c31063 fits my ranger, and if if does will this part eliminate the need for a front base p-late?

asked by: Bob P

Expert Reply:

Curt front mount hitch # C31063 will fit 2-wheel drive models of the 2008 Ford Ranger unless manufactured in a Canadian assembly plant.

A front mount trailer hitch does not replace the need for base plates to flat tow a vehicle. Flat towing requires 2 attachment points on the vehicle, not a single one like a hitch would offer.

For base plates, if you have a Sport model use # 477-1. For an XL or XLT 2-wheel drive, use # 477-5.

For a compatible tow bar you can use any Roadmaster tow bar, see link to the right. The most popular model is the Falcon 2, # RM-520. You will also need safety cables, # RM-643. The coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground.

For lighting I recommend a simple magnetic kit, # RM-2120. With this kit you will not need to cut into the vehicle wiring. And most states now require supplemental braking on the vehicle being flat towed. I recommend the InvisiBrake, # RM-8700. Once installed you will not have to worry about it again.

If using the magnetic light kit with the InvisiBrake you will need to ground the light kit white wire to the vehicle frame or negative battery terminal instead of through its connector.

Be sure to consult the truck owners manual for additional specific information on flat towing the truck. I have also included 2 helpful links to our FAQ articles on flat towing for you.