Can a 2008 Honda CR-V be flat Towed Behind and RV Using a Tow Ready/Reese Tow Bar 63180
Question:
I was researching flat towing options and was lead to believe that this product would bolt directly to the bumper of my wifes CR-V. I cant find where Id read it at. I have the tow bar now, attempting to install it this weekend, just curious if there are instructions anywhere for this specific application though. If I need to purchase an additional part like a baseplate what are the options? Thank you
asked by: Brandon R
Expert Reply:
I would actually advise against using Tow Ready tow bar # 63180 for a couple of reasons. First, this tow bar is rated for a maximum of 45 miles per hour which is fine for short hops around town but useless for highway use. And second there are base plates required, # 40602, but they are going to require major modifications to the bumper and need to be reinforced so professional installation is recommended. The other option is to use custom base plates # RM-521559-4 with an adapter # RM-025 and quick disconnects # RM-201.
What I recommend is to forget about the Tow Ready tow bar and those universal base plates and go with a custom set up using custom base plates # 1559-1. For a much better tow bar that is rated for highway speeds but that won't be overly expensive I recommend the Tracker tow bar # RM-020. And if you want to make the base plate arms easily removable you can use the quick disconnects # RM-201 but they aren't required.
You will also need some safety cables. I recommend # RM-643. The coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground.
For lighting, you can save some money by using a magnetic kit such as # RM-2120. For a more permanent solution I recommend the bulb and socket kit # RM-155 because it bypasses the vehicle wiring. I linked a video showing an example installation for you.
It also looks like you will need to pull a fuse on the vehicle if you will be flat towing the 2008 Honda CR-V for extended periods of time. Consult the vehicle owner's manual to confirm. To make this as easy as flipping a switch you can use fuse bypass # RM76511. I have linked a video on this part as well. It isn't a required part but it does make things easier.
You may also need a high/low adapter to keep the tow bar level. I have linked a help article showing how to measure and a link to the high/low adapters we carry.
And finally, most states now require supplemental braking on the vehicle being flat towed. One of the preferred systems for our installers and what I recommend is the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO proportional system, # SM99251. It will apply 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.
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.
Products Referenced in This Question
Roadmaster Tracker Tow Bar - Coupler Style for 2" Ball - 5,000 lbs
- Tow Bar
- Coupler Style
- Fixed
- Steel
- 5000 lbs
- Fits Roadmaster Base Plates - Crossbar
- Stores Separately
- Standard
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Base Plate Adapter for Tow Ready Tow Bar - Replacement Crossbar for Tracker Tow Bar
- Accessories and Parts
- Base Plates
- Tow Bar
- Adapters
- Drawtite to Roadmaster
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Tail Light Wiring Kit with Bulbs
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Bypasses Vehicle Wiring
- Bulb and Socket Kit
- Universal
- Tail Light Mount
- Roadmaster
more information >
Replacement Roadmaster Tow Bar Quick Disconnect Kit
- Accessories and Parts
- Tow Bar
- Quick Disconnects
- Car Side and Tow Bar Side
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Standard Magnetic Tow Lights
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Bypasses Vehicle Wiring
- Removable Tail Light Kit
- 20 Foot Long Harness
- Universal
- Magnetic Mount
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Roadmaster
more information >
RoadMaster 68" Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables - 6,000 lbs
- Safety Cables
- Coiled Cables
- 68 Inch Long
- 6000 lbs GTW
- Snap Hooks
- Coated Cables
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster FuseMaster Fuse Bypass - 13" - 20-Amp Mini-Fuse
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Bypasses Vehicle Wiring
- Fuse Bypass
- Custom
- Mini Fuse
- Engine Compartment
- Roadmaster
more information >
Demco Stay-IN-Play Duo Flat Tow Brake System for RVs w/ Hydraulic Brakes - Proportional
- Tow Bar Braking Systems
- Brake Systems
- Proportional System
- One Time Set-Up
- Fixed System
- Power Assist Brake Compatible
- Hydraulic Brakes
- Demco
more information >
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