Recommended Baseplate to Flat Tow a 1997 Jeep TJ w/a Blackhawk 2 Tow Bar  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Hey Ron. To flat tow a 1997 Tj with a Blackhawk 2 All Terrain tow bar you'll need the Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit item # RM-521424-5. This baseplate is custom fit and is compatible with the factory double tube bumper and the standard factory bumper.

Please note the item # RM-521424-5 will not fit the TJ models with front leaf springs.

I saw you were looking at the etrailer Classic Base Plate Kit item # e74FV. This baseplate will work with your Jeep if you have the standard factory bumper. You will need the Roadmaster Tow Bar Adapter Brackets for etrailer Base Plates item # e98983 to use your Blackhawk 2 tow bar with this baseplate.

Here are the rest of the parts you'll need to flat tow a 1997 Jeep TJ:

Wiring Harness - Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit item # RM-15267. This diode kit will splice into your factory wiring to transfer your motorhome's traffic signals to your Jeep's tail lights.

Supplemental Braking System - Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System item # BLU37TR. This portable system will sit on the floor against the driver's seat to activate the brakes in your Jeep. It does require 12v power in order to function so you'll also need to install a 12v outlet # RM-9332 and wire it directly to the battery to ensure the system will have power while you tow.

Stop Light Switch - Roadmaster Stop Light Switch Kit item # RM-751495. This makes sure your braking system isn't applying when it's not supposed to.

High Low Adapter - The tow bar needs to be within 3" of level. If you measure the height of the inside top of the hitch receiver tube on your RV, and the height difference is more than 3 inches above/below the base plate tab height, you'll need a high/low adapter. I have linked a FAQ article that explains all this in more detail along with our selection of adapters.

What kind of motorhome do you have?

You can add this information and any other questions you have where it says Reply to Jerred H and I'll be happy to answer them.

expert reply by: Jerred H

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RM-521424-5
(click to enlarge)

Jerred H.

12/8/2025

Hey Ron, how did everything go getting your Jeep TJ ready to tow behind your motorhome with the Blackhawk 2 tow bar? I'm curious which base plate you ended up using and how the setup worked out on your trip. Your update could make it easier for others setting up a similar tow system.

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