Parts Needed For Flat Towing 2009 Ford Explorer Without Removing Front Bumper
Updated 12/15/2025 | Published 11/25/2024
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Question:
I am trying to tow a 2009 ford explorer with a 2018 Jeep wrangler. I am trying to avoid having to remove the bumper of ford to get to tow bar mounts. Is there a way to buy something else to avoid removing my bumper? If i can use the jeep i will use a ram 1500 to pull the ford explorer. What do you recommend far as points i need to make the flat tow easy and stress free.
asked by: Shawn W
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Expert Reply:
Hey Shawn, thanks for reaching out. Your best option for this will be the Demco Classic Base Plate # DM9518199. This can be installed on the front of your 2009 Ford Explorer and will not require removal of the bumper. The tow hooks will need to be removed if present, but the bumper can stay on during installation. This will allow you to tow your Explorer with any Demco compatible tow bar, such as the etrailer SD Non-Binding Tow Bar # e34ZR which is what I recommend.
Here is a list of the rest of the parts I recommend for flat towing your Explorer:
- Roadmaster Tail Light Wiring Kit w/ 7-Way to 6-Wire Connector - LED Bulb and Socket - Red # RM-152-LED-7
- Brake Buddy Classic 3 Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Preset # HM39494
- Roadmaster Brake-Lite Relay Kit for Towed Vehicles # RM-88400
That will cover all of the main components. The Roadmaster wiring kit is great because once it is installed you just have to plug in and you are ready to tow. The brake buddy system is also easy to set up, and can easily be transferred over to another vehicle if you ever get rid of your explorer. Overall this will be the best flat tow setup as far as ease of use.
You will find instructions and install videos for these parts below. Feel free to reach out with any other questions.
Jesse M.
12/15/2025
Hey Shawn, how did things go with the Demco base plate on your Explorer? Did it give you the easy, bumper-on setup you were hoping for? Your update could make it easier for others planning a similar flat tow.