Difference Between Base Plate Kits for 2016 Jeep Wrangler 75th Anniversary

Question:

I have a 2016 Jeep Wrangler 75th Anniversary and it lists two baseplates by Roadmaster the 1444-3 and 1444-1. What is the difference? Is one better than the other? What tow bar would you recommend? It looks like the Roadmaster is easier to install than the Blue Ox. Less cutting. I also noticed you do not have the Demco. Is there a reason? Do you sell the complete setup with the towbar and baseplate and safety cables. What all will I need. No braking system yet. One thing at a time please. Not sure on lights either. Thanks.

asked by: James R

Expert Reply:

The difference between the two Roadmaster base plate kits you referenced is the design of the removable arms of the kit. The part # 1444-3 is a MX kit which does not use a crossbar and would be easier to install in my opinion. The XL part # 1444-1 uses removable arms that require attaching to a crossbar like what comes with the Roadmaster tow bars.

The kit would be just as involved as the Blue Ox kit part # BX1134 as the attachment brackets are very similar.

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.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking in the vehicle being flat towed. The easiest 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.

Most likely you will also need a high low adapter so that the tow bar will be level when you are flat towing. I attached a link to a page that has all of the ones we carry.

I have included a couple of helpful links to our articles on flat towing for you. Be sure to consult the vehicle owners manual for more specific information on flat towing your vehicle.