Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
(155 reviews)
Price: $485.00
Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
Item # 523168-1
Our Price: $485.00
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Roadmaster Base Plates - 523168-1
- Removable Drawbars
- Roadmaster
- Twist Lock Attachment
Roadmaster's crossbar-style brackets are virtually invisible, easy to mount, and simple to remove. Brackets install on your vehicle's frame to provide attachment points for your tow bar.
Features:
- Hidden bracket design provides improved aesthetics compared with standard brackets
- Drawbars are easily removable - just twist and pull
- No pins or clips required
- Computer-cut, all-steel construction provides exceptional strength
- Black powder coat finish is durable and corrosion resistant
- Simple installation - no welding required
- Custom base plates ensure a perfect fit for your vehicle
- Compatible with Roadmaster tow bars with use of quick-disconnect crossbar (910021-00 - sold separately)
- Instructions and mounting hardware included
- Made in the USA
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
The drawbars, or front arms, on the crossbar-style series base plate kit are supremely easy to mount and remove. Just insert them into the brackets and twist to lock them in place. To remove, simply twist the arms back and pull them out. Once the drawbars have been removed, the remaining brackets are virtually invisible. On most automobiles, the brackets are mounted within the grille - where they remain not only unseen, but protected from scrapes and scuffs as well.
523168-1 Road Master EZ2 Base Plate Kit
Installation Details
This Product Fits The Following Vehicles
- 2011 - 2014 Chevrolet Cruze non-Eco models - excluding RS
- 2011 - 2014 Chevrolet Cruze RS models
Customer Reviews
Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms - 523168-1
Average Customer Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars (155 Customer Reviews)
Roadmaster's crossbar-style brackets are virtually invisible, easy to mount, and simple to remove. Brackets install on your vehicle's frame to provide attachment points for your tow bar.by: Glenn 04/13/2024
This baseplate worked out fine. While at first glance the installation might look intimidating to some, I found it was not that difficult. I believe a person with average mechanical skills/experience can install this. Since it was a first for me, I took my time and no doubt took more time than a pro, but I know it was "done right". I learned something new, and I saved a bunch of money! The job was made easier by the excellent directions. Probably the most intimidating thing was removing the front bumper cover, but it was actually easy, just follow the step by step directions. This install was on a 2011 Kia Soul. I like the fact that it is nearly hidden, a clean look.
by: Bill F10/16/2015
After comparing Demco, RoadMaster, and Blue Ox base plate costs, mounting procedures, etc for my 2012 Fiat Sport, I decided to go with RoadMaster (Kit #522013-1A) for two main reasons: 1) I had the tow bar and mount adapters from another product that were the same specs as the RoadMaster tow bar and adapters to attach to the base plate, and 2) no drilling or other modifications required to mount the base plates. Blue Ox (Kit #BX2800) required I buy their tow bar and other unique configuration adapters PLUS drill two half-inch holes on either side where the base plate mounted AND hammering flat the tips on the corners of the bumper bracket the frame where the base plate mounted. Blue Ox did provide better details on the removal of the facia and bolt removal and torquing actions required for the Fiat. My biggest challenge was the removal of the facia without damaging the clips or other damage to it. Once it was off, the action of removing the bumper core from the end of the frame rails and bolting on the base plate was slick! I took a little over 4 hours to do this, but it was because I wanted to do it right, without damage, and have the confidence I could tow without issues. (Not sure how sequence will show, but labeled the pictures as "Before," "Removal," "Installation," "Finished," and "Ready to Tow.")
by: Chris03/15/2019
This was the second base plate kit from etrailer that I have installed, the first being on our ‘03 Outback and this one on our new to us 2015 Subaru CrossTrek. As usual the response, shipping and delivery from etrailer was prompt and curious. They are my go to place for anything towing related.
Installation of this kit went well with only a few issues, most of which were related to our vehicle not the kit. I knew the car had been hit lightly on the LF corner, but could find nothing of concern body or frame wise when I looked the car over before buying it. Turns out the front bumper reinforcement had been tweaked a tad which made lining the bolt holes up with the holes in the base plates a tad challenging. This made the small angle brackets that go inside the frame heads tough to line up, but in the end it all fit. I did find that it was unnecessary to pull the washer reservoir or the left headlight to access the nut and washer for the long 1/2” bolt. You can easily reach and see the place from underneath after pulling the plastic encapsulation panel. When drilling that 1/2” hole be sure to angle the drill bit UP a tad otherwise you may end up having to grind a flat on the side of the large, thick washer as you can see in my picture from underneath. I used shrink wrap over the nut and bolt since there’s a wiring harness right against it. The picture of the baseplate differs a bit from the pictures so I guess they made some changes. All in all a great kit!
by: SanfordTurbo08/18/2020
2018 Fiat Abarth install - Videos of install from etrailer helped a bunch. My 2018 fog lights on the Abarth required some trimming on the inside of the bumper cover. Photos in the instructions did not accurately depict my 2018 Abarth, but taking the grill and fog light assemblies off of the bumper cover allowed me to see what needed trimming. Basically a 1 inch notch with the dremel did the trick. I also got the rock guardian and falcon all terrain tow bar. super quick to assemble and disconnect. CLEAN LOOKING INSTALL WHEN EVERYTHING IS REMOVED.
by: Ron V12/17/2018
Received the base plate within 3 days of ordering. Very fast and efficient service! Within 15 minutes of receiving the base plate and wiring kit I received an email from Carol at etrailer saying she got notification that it was received and to make sure everything was O.K. Excellent customer service!! The installation was pretty straight forward. The installation tutorial video posted by etrailer was very good and helpful. Will order from etrailer again when the need arises. Highly recommend them.
by: Andrew05/05/2023
The Ez4 was went on while watching Video during each step. Used the 2012 Sonic Video. We were able to trim just enough without having to remove the ambient temp sensor. We are happy with the way it looks on the Sonic.
by: Steve 02/21/2024
Super fast shipping, nice product and complete installation instructions.
by: Susan 09/02/2023
Everything we have purchased from etrailer has been excellent. We have this installed on our 2014 Fiat for towing, and it's worked out great. We've gone a few thousand miles with it, no problem. Love etrailers service, website, videos etc.
by: James 03/02/2023
Just what I needed for my toad.
by: Robert11/12/2019
Fairly easy to install however it requires removing the front (nose) of the car. I was amazed at how much plastic goes into making these cars. It took about 3-4 hours to take off the front remove the factory 'bumper' that the RoadMaster Base Plate replaces and reinstall everything. I had problems because someone had removed the front of the car previously and had not put it back together properly. It all worked out and I'm loving how easy it is to hookup and unhook. I had a dolly previously and this is so much better. When I sell the Mini I'll restore the front end (replacing the grille) unless the new buyer wants to tow it. The etrailer and Roadmaster teams are great to work with.
by: Dieter05/26/2020
Installed on a 2011 Mini Cooper S hatchback turbo. Previous reviews were pretty spot on. Lots of plastic goes into these cars! My install (including brake light wiring), was 7 hours start to finish. Hardest part was removing the bumper facia to get at the metal bumper underneath. Be patient, take your time so you dont break any plastic clips!
The base plate itself is VERY robust compared to the oem bumper! Adds about 20#. I did have to trim away some plastic flashing behind the facia where the air scoops go. Easy to do with a Dremel tool.
When done, it is an extremely clean look!
Very impressed with the fit and finish. Very easy to hook up. Went with Falcon 2 bar. Tows very well!
Thanks etrailer!!
by: Vincent04/08/2021
First of all, thank you etrailer for getting the Baseplate Kit for my Chevy Spark to me in time for my trip. Everything I needed was in the box. The step by step instructions were very easy to follow. I would definitely take their suggestion to read and understand the instructions before beginning the job. That step allowed me to always know what was coming next. Several holes need to be drilled, no problem with location, it is all in the instructions. Be sure to have good sharp bits. The whole process is an easy bolt on. I work slowly and got it done in one afternoon. At the end, after installing the baseplate, when you put the front facia back on the car, they suggest leaving off the Styrofoam inner bumper but I found no need to do that as it still fit right back on no problem. It would be up to you to leave it off or not. I thought it would be safer with it on there as was the original. In the end I added a light kit with a 4 round plug on the front. Very well thought out for Roadmaster to supply a place to mount the receptacle. Thanks again, I can now leave on time and take my car with me.
by: Dale T.08/02/2019
I bought and installed base plate and wiring on a 2018 Ford C-Max hybrid car. The wiring was a little complicated due to the hybrid setup on the car, however, everything worked out well. I have done this on several other cars I have towed behind my motorhomes. All products and help from etrailer.com was excellent. The video presentation was very helpful.
by: David02/10/2018
I installed it on a 2012 mini Cooper S. The video was of a slightly different model than mine, but was very helpful. One thing to note is that the model S has a turbo charger so it has two plastic air intakes in the lower bumper area. That was not mentioned in the instructions or the video. The fit of the towbar bracket was perfect! Very little of it shows from the outside.
by: Robert D.11/07/2020
installation instructions were clear and very helpful, took me about 4 hours to install, would have been faster if i had attempted anything like this before.. removing front fascia and trimming the openings. Easy to use.
by: Jackie05/10/2020
Very well made. Other than a couple of holes not lining up very well, which I have never seen anything line up perfectly, it was fairly simple to install. With the instructions that came with the base plate, that were very easy to follow, we were able to install with very little problems, and we are not all that mechanically incline. Lol
by: David04/13/2023
Ordered the Roadmaster Cross-Style Base Plate with Removable Arms Kit after reviewing the information on the etrailer web site. Nice video showing the product installed on our model of vehicle (Fiat 500). Ordering online was easy and shipping was fast with excellent communication through email and tracking.
After receiving my order, I then discovered the Quick Disconnect Tow Bar Assembly is not included in this model of base plate kit and has to be ordered in addition. I was able to determine after a phone call and email exchange with customer service. Interesting it is listed in the online catalogue as a replacement item.
by: John04/20/2018
Great product and installation went very smoothly. Installed myself in about 2 hours. Fit perfectly and mounted easily to the car. My Stowmaster tow bar mounted right up to it. I deliver motor homes for a living and can already see how this setup is going to save me lots of time and aggravation over old fixed tow bar set-up I had previously.
by: Walt03/04/2022
the install directions were on the spot. install was time consuming but, relatively easy with the car on a set of ramps. one year and 9000 miles later. everything is still solid and tight
by: Les M.01/09/2012
The package was shipped from your warehouse 1/4/2012 at 2:09 PM and arrived at my house in Colorado Springs 1/6/2012 at 1:08 PM, that was great service and a great product.
I finished the installation of the kit on my new 2012 Ford Fiesta at about 8:00 PM on the same day I received the kit (1/6/2012.)
Thanks for the GREAT service
by: Luc 09/15/2017
I installed this plate with the help of my friend very easy to install..
.very good installation diagram ....easy to follow.........
excellent product
Luc
by: richard hunter09/25/2014
it dose the job but had to do a lot realigning to get most of the mounting bolts also had to cleanout threads with tap to get bolts
to start.
by: Len L.08/28/2019
Wow, this thing was super easy to install. Just watch the 8 1/2 min video and your good to go. Worked on it an hr a day for 3 days before going to work. 3 hrs total. Be sure to get an alignment tool to help line up the holes.
by: Dan07/16/2022
Everything I ordered was exceptional. I have used a different brand for years but this is so much better. Thanks
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See what our Experts say about this Roadmaster Base Plates
- Flat Tow a 2012 Chevy Cruze with Manual TransmissionIf you have a manual transmission then the vehicle can be flat towed with all four wheels down and for this you would need a tow bar, base plate kit, safety cables, supplemental braking system, wiring harness, and probably a high-low adapter. For the 2012 Chevy Cruze there are a few options depending on trim level. base plates for various models. The base plates # 523168-1 are for non-Eco models. If you have an Eco model with active air shutter system then select the # 523170-1 option. I...
view full answer... - Parts Needed For Also Flat Towing a 2011 Chevrolet Cruze With Roadmaster Falcon Tow BarsFirst you will need either the Roadmaster Base Plate # 523170-1 if you have an eco trim on your 2011 Chevrolet Cruze or a Roadmaster Base Plate # 523168-1 for all other trim levels. To connect your Roadmaster Falcon All Terrain, Non-Binding Tow Bar # RM-522 you will need a Quick Disconnect Crossbar Assembly # 910021-00 as the mounting systems for your Cruze require a crossbar. For the tail light wiring you will need the Roadmaster Universal Hy-Power Diode Wiring Kit # RM-152 and a 6-Wire...
view full answer... - Can 2012 Chevy Cruze be Flat Towed Behind MotorhomeA 2012 Chevy Cruze can be flat towed but it has to be a manual transmission model. Automatics would need to be towed on a tow dolly like the part # RM-2050-1. For flat towing you'd first need a base plate kit for the vehicle like the Roadmaster part # 523168-1 which is a confirmed fit. 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 All...
view full answer... - Recommended Base Plates and Tow Bar for Towing 2014 Chevy Cruze Behind MotorhomeYou'll only be able to flat tow your 2014 Chevy Cruze with all 4 wheels down if it has a manual transmission. If it DOES have a manual transmission, I'd recommend the Roadmaster Falcon All-Terrain tow bar, part # RM-522. For base plates, I'd recommend the Roadmaster # 523170-1 for Eco models or # 523168-1 for Non-Eco models. You'll also need safety cables, a taillight wiring solution, a supplemental braking system and possibly a high/low adapter if the 17 inch installed base plate height...
view full answer... - Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2012 Chevy Cruze 2LT with Manual TransmissionFor the 2012 Chevy Cruze it looks like there are base plates for various models. If your 2LT does not have fog lights and is not an RS model then I recommend the Roadmaster base plates # 523168-1. If you have an Eco model with active air shutter system, go with # 523170-1. And for an RS model the only option is # BX1698. For either of the Roadmaster base plates I recommend the Falcon 2 tow bar # RM-520. If you need the Blue Ox base plates then go with the Avail tow bar # BX7420. For safety...
view full answer... - Chev Cruze Base Plate # 523168-1 Recommendation for a 2011 Chevy CruzeAside from this Roadmaster EZ2 Base Plate Kit, part # 523168-1, you will need to check with the manufacturer and/or your vehicle owners manual for instructions on the proper procedure for towing your vehicle because some vehicles must be equipped with a transmission lube pump, an axle disconnect, drive line disconnect, or free-wheeling hubs before they can be towed. For the rest of your flat-towing setup, first I would recommend a RoadMaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar, part # RM-520. This tow bar...
view full answer... - Tow Bar Recommendation for Roadmaster Base Plates on a 2013 Chevrolet CruzeThe Roadmaster EZ2 Base Plate Kit, 523168-1, that you purchased is compatible with all Roadmaster tow bars. I recommend using a Roadmaster tow bar because tow bars from other manufacturers are not directly compatible with Roadmaster base plates and an additional adapter would be required. I have attached a link to all of the Roadmaster tow bars for you to check out. Each of these tow bars come with a bar to tie the removable draw bars together. The tow bar that I would recommend is...
view full answer...
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Info for this part was:
Expert Research:
John H
Updated by:
Adele M
Updated by:
Mike S
Updated by:
Isabelle B
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