Base Plates Compatible with Roadmaster Eagle Tow Bar for 2012 Ford Explorer

Expert Reply:

The correct base plates for your Explorer will depend on how the vehicle is equipped.

The Roadmaster # 4427-1A will work for you if your Explorer does NOT have the EcoBoost motor.

If you have the EcoBoost motor, you would need to go with a Blue Ox base plate, part # BX2632 and the Blue Ox base plate to Roadmaster tow bar adapter, part # BX88151.

The website we use to confirm the towability of a given vehicle does not have any information about the 2012 Explorer model. They state that the 2011 2WD model can only be towed on a trailer, but the AWD model can be towed as-is. I would suggest you confirm the vehicles ability to be towed with Ford or with the owners manual.

To wire your Explorer for towing, I would recommend the Roadmaster Universal Wiring Kit, part # 154-792-118158.

Many states and Canadian Provinces now require towed vehicles to be equipped with a supplemental braking system like the Blue Ox Patriot, part # BLU37TR. The Patriot is a proportional braking system that allows the towed vehicles brakes to work in tandem with those of the tow vehicle. This leads to safer more predictable braking.

I will link you to some Flat Towing FAQ articles that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Mike L

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