2015 Ford Explorer 4x4 Flat Towing Parts Recommendations

Question:

Hi, I believe I cannot tow dolly this vehicle due to it being 4wd. I live in CA so need a brake system to tow this behind my RV. I really dont want to spend a ton of money but I also want the easiest no brainer solution so I will side with the no-brainer and easiest first. Can you tell me what I need to save up for?

asked by: Julian S

Expert Reply:

I did some checking and the 4WD versions of the 2015 Ford Explorer can be flat towed. There are a few recommended procedures you will need to follow in the owners manual though.

The easiest braking system to set up and use is the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR, that applies the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.

For a base plate kit you would want the # 4427-1A that you referenced.

In addition to the base plates, you will also need a compatible tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking to flat tow your vehicle. The most popular compatible tow bar is the Falcon 2, # RM-520. For safety cables you can use # RM-643. The coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground.

For lighting you can use the diode kit, # RM-15267, and not have to worry about cutting into the taillight housing. This will splice into your taillight wiring to allow your tow vehicle to control the taillight assemblies of the towed vehicle. This comes with a round 6-way connector that you will install on the front of your towed vehicle and enough coiled wire to go from there to the RV.

expert reply by: Jameson C