Adapter to Level Tow Bar and Other Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2012 Honda CR-V Behind Motor Home

Question:

I have not yet purchased a tow bar but have heard from others that the tow bar should not drop more than 4inch between the MH and the towed vehicle. The Blue Ox base plate I have purchased for my 2012 CR-V looks like it is going to be at 15, while my MH hitch is 20 1/2. Will I have a problem and how will I address it?

asked by: Mike S

Expert Reply:

Actually, it is 3 inches! But yes, you want the tow bar to be as level as possible. But not to worry because there are adapters called high-low adapters that compensate for the difference in height between the base plates on the vehicle and the motor home's trailer hitch.

Roadmaster has a 6 inch drop adapter, # RM-076. If you determine that a different amount of drop is needed you can look through the link I have provided of all of the high-low adapters we carry.

In addition to the base plates you already have you also need a compatible tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking to flat tow your 2012 Honda CR-V.

The tow bar I like to recommend is the Roadmaster Sterling, part # RM-576, because it includes safety cables and a wiring connection. Since your base plates are Blue Ox you need adaptes, part # RM-031, to use the Sterling.

For lighting you have a couple of options. You can use a simple magnetic kit such as # RM-2120. Or for a more permanent solution I recommend bulb and socket kit # RM-155. I have linked a video showing how the kit installs. I recommend cutting off the 4-way that mounts to the front of the CR-V and use the 6-way included with the tow bar.

It also looks like you will have to pull a fuse if towing the CR-V for prolonged periods of time. To make this as easy as flipping a switch you can use fuse bypass # RM76511. I linked a video on this as well.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking on the vehicle being flat towed. One of the easiest systems to set up and use is the Even Brake proportional system # RM-9400. It will apply the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the RV is braking. This is the easiest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles. And you will need 12 volt outlet kit # RM-9332 to allow the braking system to function.

Be sure to consult your vehicle owners manual for specific information on flat towing the vehicle. I have also included some helpful links to our series of help articles on flat towing for you.