All Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum With 3.5L EcoBoost Engine
Updated 01/12/2026 | Published 08/29/2024
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Question:
I have a 2018 Platinum Ecoboost 3.5 4WD. Am I able to flat tow it?
asked by: Chris R
Expert Reply:
Hi Chris,
Yes, your 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum with a 3.5L EcoBoost engine can be flat towed, and I'll go ahead and list out all the parts needed for that. Just be sure to take note there's a couple different options for base plates depending on if you have Adaptive Cruise Control or Active Air Shutters.
- WITH Adaptive Cruise Control & WITHOUT Active Air Shutters: Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM-524446-5
OR
- WITHOUT Adaptive Cruise Control (does work with Active Air Shutters): Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM-524445-5
- Roadmaster BlackHawk 2 All-Terrain Non-Binding Tow Bar # RM-422
- Safety Cables # RM-645
- Diode Wiring Kit # RM-15267
- Demco Stay-IN-Play Duo Flat Tow Brake System for RVs w/ Hydraulic Brakes # SM99251
- Towed Vehicle Battery Charge Line Kit # DM66VR
- Roadmaster Battery Disconnect # RM-766
The Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plates are great because they have removable arms for a clean look, and I like the BlackHawk tow bar because of its hefty 10k rating and channels that allow you to cleanly run the safety cables through.
The diode wiring kit will prevent any type of electrical feedback to keep your Explorer's electrical system safe, and as for the braking system, the Stay-IN-Play DUO is easily the best because it gives you braking proportional to that of your motorhome. So when you hit the brakes on your motorhome, your Explorer is going to get the same amount of braking power for smooth braking.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Tow Bar Base Plate
- Removable Draw Bars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Partially Hidden
- Roadmaster
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on Tow Bar Base Plate
Jesse M.
1/12/2026
Hey Chris, how did everything go getting your Explorer set up for flat towing with the Roadmaster base plates and tow bar? Your update could make it easier for the next person working on a similar setup.