Flat towing 2016 Ram 1500 battery disconnect

[StevieG]

After several good years, I'm trading in the Hummer for a brand new Ram 1500. Before I finalized the deal, I made sure I can flat tow it behind my Monaco. This winter my project will be to get it ready for 2017 camping season. I already have the Ready Brute Elite tow bar. I just need to get a new cable that runs from the front bumper to the brake peddle (through the engine compartment) and a breakaway cable. On the truck I need to get a new base plate and install light sockets to the tail lights.

I have one question. I've read a couple of threads written by Ram owners that say you have to leave the key in the "on" position or disconnect the negative terminal on the battery. Leaving the key on, runs down the battery. Is there a better alternative to disconnecting the cable on the battery? Do they make a disconnect switch (like in the coach) for this situation?

If they do, can you please supply a link to that product so we can check it out? Thanks!

[Skip426]

Questions ?

4 wheel drive truck ?

Anything in the owners manual about a steering wheel lock ? Flat towing?
Several manufacturers discontinued the steering wheel lock , with the introduction of " chipped " ignition keys, so important to get info on your year of vehicle.

[BobGed]

Go to Ram Trucks Owners Service Manuals and enter the year and model and then select User Guide. Look under Recreational Towing, I believe it was around page 722. From what I read it is to be towed with the ignition in the OFF position.

[Misty123]

Originally Posted by StevieG

After several good years, I'm trading in the Hummer for a brand new Ram 1500. Before I finalized the deal, I made sure I can flat tow it behind my Monaco. This winter my project will be to get it ready for 2017 camping season. I already have the Ready Brute Elite tow bar. I just need to get a new cable that runs from the front bumper to the brake peddle (through the engine compartment) and a breakaway cable. On the truck I need to get a new base plate and install light sockets to the tail lights.

I have one question. I've read a couple of threads written by Ram owners that say you have to leave the key in the "on" position or disconnect the negative terminal on the battery. Leaving the key on, runs down the battery. Is there a better alternative to disconnecting the cable on the battery? Do they make a disconnect switch (like in the coach) for this situation?

If they do, can you please supply a link to that product so we can check it out? Thanks!

Not sure if they've changed anything, but on the 2015 push button start, it's Xfer case In neutral, tranny in park, ignition off, doors locked (optional) and you're gone.

[August West]

Here ya go
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=...TfVnS6CiAeXY0A

[StevieG]

Thank you Bob. The dealer told me I could flat tow, but not much more. I used the link you provided and found The answer on pages 722 To page 733. The procedure is exactly the same as my Hummer, with the key in the lock position. No disconnect necessary. I'm a happy camper again! Thank you August West for the disconnect link...

One thing worth noting is that on these trucks (4x4), you have to either flat tow or tow on a trailer. No tow dolly...

[BobGed]

Originally Posted by StevieG

Thank you Bob. The dealer told me I could flat tow, but not much more. I used the link you provided and found The answer on pages 722 To page 733. The procedure is exactly the same as my Hummer, with the key in the lock position. No disconnect necessary. I'm a happy camper again! Thank you August West for the disconnect link...

One thing worth noting is that on these trucks (4x4), you have to either flat tow or tow on a trailer. No tow dolly...

You're most welcome. Glad it's going to work out for you. I don't believe there is any 4x4 that can be dolly towed.

[SuperGewl]

You most likely have LED Tail lights, at least I do on mine. I would install this vice another set of bulbs 55999
Universal Towed Vehicle Wiring Kit.

[ETnRvr]

One thing to note. If you are using a brake system that requires 12V, you can use the 12V connection on the back of the center console with the switch off if you change the position of the fuse. It is a two position socket one for using the key and one for hot all the time.

[Dutch Star Don]

Rather than try and fit in additional bulbs, I really like the simplicity of this wiring kit. I just installed it on my 2016 GM Canyon.

https://www.etrailer.com/Tow-Bar-Wir...id=20161354956

[BobGed]

Demco makes a plug-in wire harness that is very easy to install with no splicing into factory wiring. This is what I used on my Cherokee.

The following link is to a kit that fits 2013 to 2015 Rams. I would suggest giving them a call and see if it will also work for a 2016:
http://www.demco-products.com/assets...ts/9523114.pdf

Product link: Towed Connectors | Demco Products

[walt2137]

For the lights on the pickup toad I used a LED light strip and attached to the bottom of my tail gate , don't have the worry of the toad brake lights covering up the turn signal when the toad brakes are activated . Cost under $ 20 and has worked good for me the last 3 yrs.

60" LED Strip Tailgate Bar Reverse Brake Turn Signal Light For Dodge Ram Truck s | eBay

[StevieG]

Walt, wow! That looks like a great alternative to the bulb and socket set up that I've spent hours installing... Do you know if it's legal in most or all states to use just the strip for tail lights, braking and turn signals while as a toad? Thanks

[walt2137]

There is no reason that I can see that would make it illegal Steve if fact I think it would be a little safer because your signal light can't be covered up by the brake lights.