Best Flat Tow Setup For 2017 Ford F-150

Updated 06/09/2025 | Published 05/22/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Demco Tabless Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(383)

$517.58

Blue Ox Adjustable Drop Hitch Receiver Adapter - 2" Hitches - 8" Rise/Drop - 10,000 lbs

(156)

$228.13

Demco Dominator Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 7,500 lbs

(37)

$1449.00

etrailer Tow Bar Cover for Blue Ox, Roadmaster, Demco, Curt, and etrailer Tow Bars

(108)

$28.29

etrailer Hitch Receiver Lock for 2" and 2-1/2" Hitches - Flush - 3-5/8" Span - Chrome

(3573)

$22.23

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

(3183)

$179.84

Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles

(1199)

$45.63

Roadmaster Brake-Lite Relay Kit for Towed Vehicles

(699)

$47.73

Demco Stay-IN-Play Duo Flat Tow Brake System for RVs w/ Hydraulic Brakes - Proportional

(754)

$1175.00

Question:

I have a 2017 F-150. I need everything to flat tow. Is the Demco Dominator a good option. What about the base plate differences between Blue Ox and Roadmaster. I prefer to see as little as possible, however, functionality is most important. Braking: I saw one of your videos that recommended the SMI Delta Force and Stay in Play, I realize the Delta Force is portable and I like that feature. I am concerned about being able to monitor the F-150 from the motorhome. I saw a video that claims the Camco towbar does not bind and has long arms to make turning easier. Can you help me understand the pros and cons on what to order.

asked by: Dennis T

Helpful Expert Reply:

Hello Dennis, I can definitely help with that. I will start with a part list, then touch on a few things you mentioned. Here is what I recommend for flat towing your 2017 Ford F-150:

- Demco Tabless Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # DM56MV

- Demco Dominator Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 7,500 lbs # DM9511008

- Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 7-Way to 6-Way Coiled Adapter Cord # RM-15267

- Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles # RM-156-25

- Demco Stay-IN-Play Duo Flat Tow Brake System for RVs w/ Hydraulic Brakes - Proportional # SM99251

- Roadmaster Brake-Lite Relay Kit for Towed Vehicles # RM-88400

That will cover all the main components. You may need a drop hitch like part # BLU28XR to compensate for any height differences between the base plate arms and the hitch on your RV. A difference of more than 3" will require a drop hitch. Also keep in mind the tow bar has 2" of rise or drop built into the shank. I also recommend getting a cover # e76FV and lock # e98881 for your tow bar.

The base plate for the 2021 F-150 are all quite similar in design, and they all install in the same location. I recommend the Demco simply because it is best for the tow bar and base plate to be the same brand. It has removable arms so it will be pretty well hidden when not in use.

The Dominator tow bar is a great choice and it has non-binding aluminum arms. No reason to talk you out of that one, Demco makes a very solid tow bar.

For the braking system, the Demco Stay-IN-Play is what I recommend 100% of the time unless you really want a portable unit. The Demco is just super reliable. It just works. And once you install you just need to plug in and go. No repeated setup and takedown like with the portable units.

Is this your first time flat towing? Or have you done this before?

I have included a few install videos for you below that you should find helpful.

Hit that reply button below and let me know if there is anything else I can do to help.

expert reply by: Jesse M

Demco Base Plate Example
(click to enlarge)

Dennis T.

5/28/2025

I am considering buying a 2025 Base model Bronco to tow behind my motorhome instead of my 2017 F 150. Is there a good baseplate available for the Bronco that doesn’t require any modifications to the Bronco. The F 150 installation looks pretty easy and I am concerned about the Bronco installation. Thank you!

Jesse M.

5/29/2025

@DennisT Hey Dennis. We do have a base plate for the 2025 Ford Bronco, like the Roadmaster # RM79RR BUT no matter what base plate you install on your Bronco some modifications will be required. You will need to trim the grille guard, air dam, or plastic fascia. You will also need to permanently remove the tow hooks if present. For vehicles with the standard plastic factory bumper, this will be the case for any base plate.

Dennis T.

5/31/2025

@JesseM Thanks Jesse, I have decided to buy a new Chevy Trax to tow with the Demco dominator. Could you please update the information for this vehicle. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated. The Trax has LED taillights as far as I know. I appreciate all of your help.

Dennis T.

5/31/2025

@DennisT Could you recommend an affiliate to install everything if I decide not to tackle this myself. My zip code is 48170. Thank you!