Is Item # 1183-1 Compatible With An After Market Bumper On A 2007 FJ Cruiser

Question:

im considering purchasing this item for my 2007 toyota fj cruser standard addition with https://www.etrailer.com/Tow-Bar/Roadmaster/RM-501.html i have a aftermarket winch bumper and i need more detailed pictures of the installed product attached to the frame to estimate if it is compatible with my bumper do you have install instructions pdf with pictures you could send me or a cad drawing with dementions p.s. one of the pictures in your product images shows the wrong product and should be removed [the one with the red car] its very confusing

asked by: Steve H

Expert Reply:

I contacted Roadmaster and Item # 1183-1 is not compatible with the aftermarket bumper you have on your 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser. Your photo shows your after market bumper has shackle mounts. I would contact the manufacturer and see if the bumper can be used for flat towing. If so I recommend going with Item # RM-520 and Item # RM-035-1 if the shackle mounts are 1" thick and Item # RM-035 if the shackle mounts are 3/4" thick.

The D-Ring adapters replace the tabs on the end of each arm on the tow bar and are only compatible with motor home mounted tow bars that slide into a hitch receiver. They would not be compatible with the Roadmaster StowMaster Tow Bar Item # RM-501.

I also recommend Item # RM-15267. This kit allows your towed vehicle to receive light functions from the towing vehicle. The wiring is spliced into the factory wiring behind each taillight so the factory bulbs can be used. The diodes are placed in between those connections so the vehicle can be used under normal driving conditions without causing issue with the factory wiring. They also protect the factory wiring from back feed so the factory wiring cannot be damaged.

All states require a braking system when flat towing a vehicle. I recommend the Brake Buddy Classic 3 Item # HM39494. This is a light weight portable system that is easy to set up when your ready to tow and small enough to store when not in use. It can also be used in multiple flat towed vehicle.

Flat towing a vehicle also requires safety cables. Since you have an after market bumper I recommend going with Item # RM-653 as the front portion of your bumper does not have safety chain loops. The extra length will allow you to run the safety cables to another location on the front of the vehicle.