Difference Between Crossbar-Style and Direct-Connect Base Plate Kits for 2020 Wrangler Unlimited
Question:
Looking at the direct-connect and crossbar-style base plate kits to flat tow my 2020 Wrangler Unlimited. Is thee an advantage to either one and which do you recommend using?
asked by: Brad R
Expert Reply:
The Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM-521453-5 is the upgraded version of the Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit # RM-521453-4 for your 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. The direct-connect has the same basic installation and removable arms just like the crossbar-style option but the direct-connect is much easier to use out in the field because you connect the arms independently of each other instead of having them linked with a crossbar. Because of this I recommend going with the direct-connect kit.
A complete flat towing setup consists of a base plate kit, tow bar, safety cables, vehicle tow bar wiring, a supplemental braking system, and possibly a high-low adapter. If you don't already have everything then I recommend the following:
Nighthawk All Terrain Tow Bar # RM-676 (comes with safety cables and part of your wiring)
Nighthawk All Terrain Towing Combo Kit # RM-9284-2 (comes with locks and the rest of the wiring)
SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO - # SM99251 with Stop Light Switch # RM-751490 (hydraulic motorhome brakes)
SMI Air Force One - # SM99243 (air motorhome brakes)
Most flat towing setups require a high-low adapter for the tow bar to remain level while towing. I have linked our selection of adapters for you to check out as well as an article that will help you determine which is the best one for your application.
Along with the adapter links I have attached some videos that you can reference.
Products Referenced in This Question
Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Nighthawk All-Terrain Tow Bar w/ LED Lights - Non-Binding - RV Mount - 8,000 lbs
- Tow Bar
- Hitch Mount Style
- Telescoping
- Aluminum
- 8000 lbs
- Fits Roadmaster Base Plates - Direct Connect
- Stores on RV
- Non-Binding
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Stop Light Switch Kit
- Tow Bar Braking Systems
- Stop Light Switch
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Accessory Kit for Nighthawk and Sterling Tow Bars - Tail Light Wiring - Lock Set
- Accessories and Parts
- Tow Bar
- Accessories Kit
- Sterling All Terrain
- Nighthawk All Terrain
- Roadmaster
more information >
Demco Air Force One Flat Tow Brake System for RVs w/ Air Brakes - Proportional
- Tow Bar Braking Systems
- Brake Systems
- Proportional System
- One Time Set-Up
- Fixed System
- Power Assist Brake Compatible
- Air Brakes
- Demco
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 >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Roadmaster
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
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