Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2008 Honda CR-V Behind an RV with a Blue Ox Tow Bar

Question:

I was given a Blue OX Tow Bar and just want to make sure the Blue Ox base plate I order fits. I also need a wiring kit plus any other necessary parts to complete the installation. I'm towing the Honda behind a 2017 Winnebago Navion.

asked by: Michael D

Expert Reply:

A free tow bar? Hard to pass up that deal! The Blue Ox base plates # BX2246 for your 2008 Honda CR-V are indeed compatible with your tow bar which appears to be the Aladdin or a version of the Alpha (# BX7380). Either way the base plates are compatible.

In addition to the tow bar and base plates you will also need a lighting solution and supplemental braking. The tow bar comes with safety cables and I see them in your picture so you won't need to add any additional cables.

For lighting you can save some money by using the E-Z Mount light kit # EZT20B. For a more permanent lighting solution I recommend diode kit # RM-15267. I have included a link to a video showing an example installation for you.

It also appears that if you will be towing the 2008 Honda CR-V for an extended amount of time a fuse will need to be pulled. Consult the vehicle owner's manual to confirm. To make this process as easy as flipping a switch I recommend the fuse bypass # RM76511. It isn't required but it makes removing power to the affected fuse a lot 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. Since your Winnebago Navion has air brakes the best system is the Air Force One # SM99243. It prevents false braking on your CR-V since it doesn't use the coach's brake lights to activate the brakes.

Brake light switch kit # RM-751000 is also recommended to properly activate the motor home brake-monitoring system whenever the brake pedal in your CR-V is applied. This will allow you to know for sure that the vehicle brake pedal is actually moving.

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.