Recommended Components For Flat-Towing 2005 Honda CR-V Behind Motorhome

Question:

I have a 2005 Honda CRV I intend to tow with my Fleetwood Southwind 36 ft. motorhome I am looking at the BX7322 Tow Bar with the RM-033 Base Plate and BX88196 Cables. Other than a Light Kit do I need anything else? I am fairly handy so is this something I can install myself if instructions are also provided? Thanks.

asked by: Paul B

Expert Reply:

there are 5 thing needed when you are flat-towing a vehicle. You will need base plates, a tow bar, safety cables, lighting for the towed vehicle, and most states now require a supplemental brake system.

If you like the Blue Ox Adventurer Tow Bar, part # BX7322, I recommend using Blue Ox base plates as well, like part # BX2238. This eliminates the hassle of using an adapter that allows you to be able to use different manufacturers for base plates and tow bars.

You mentioned the RoadMaster Base Plate to Blue Ox and Demco Tow Bars Adapter, part # RM-033. This is used to let you use the Blue ox tow bar with Roadmaster base plates, so you would need base plates like part # 1555-5 that would work well with the adapter. A more cost-effective way would be to use the Blue Ox base plates with the Blue Ox tow bar.

I then recommend the RoadMaster Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables, part # RM-643.

If you are going to be flat-towing a lot I recommend the Tow Ready Diode System, part # TR118821. This system splices into your CR-V wiring and includes the connectors needed. Since there are fuses that have to be pulled when flat-towing your CR-V, I recommend using a fuse bypass like part # RM76511. This eliminates the hassle of pulling fuses every time you plan on flat-towing.

The supplemental brake system I recommend is the Roadmaster InvisiBrake Supplemental Braking System, part # RM-8700. This is a one-time setup so there is no need to adjust every time you tow.

Finally, to make sure your CR-V lights work in tandem with the RV lights, you will need a brake light relay, part # RM-88400. This is needed on vehicles with combined lighting when using a supplemental brake system.