Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2018 Ram 3500 With 4-Wheel Drive

Question:

I have a 2018 Ram 3500 srw 4x4 with the Aisin transmission. My owners manual indicates that flat towing is possible. Are there any restrictions associated with the Aisin transmission that would preclude me from flat towing the truck?

asked by: Steve

Expert Reply:

There are no restrictions that we are aware of (though it is always recommended to check with the dealer), and this transmission has been used in Ram vehicles for many years. The owner's manual simply states that 4-wheel drive models of 2018 Ram 3500 can be flat towed, both automatic and manual transmissions. As long as you follow the steps required in the owner's manual you will be able to flat tow your 2018 Ram 3500 4x4. In order to do so, here are the parts you will need:

- Base Plate Kit: Demco Classic Base Plate Kit # DM9518134
- Tow Bar: etrailer XHD Non-Binding Tow Bar # e94ZR
- Wiring Kit: Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit # RM-15267
- Supplemental Braking System: Demco SBS Stay-IN-Play DUO Supplemental Braking System # SM99251
OR
- For a motorhome with air brakes: Demco SBS Air Force One Supplemental Braking System for Motorhomes with Air Brakes # SM99243

The Demco Classic Base Plates give your car a clean look, and the etrailer tow bar is the best option because it has long arms which make it easier to maneuver when towing, along with integrated safety cables and an adjustable tilting head so a high-low adapter won't be needed. Having these features on a tow bar means you won't have to purchase them separately, saving you additional expenses.

I really like the Flexo-Coil wiring kit because it is designed to prevent any type of electrical feedback, keeping your Ram's electrical system safe. As for the braking systems, both the Stay-IN-Play DUO as well as the Air Force One are strongly recommended because they are a one-time install which will never require any type of removal or reactivation, and because they give you braking proportional to that of your motorhome. This results in much smoother braking than most systems.