Can Base Plates be Installed on a 2012 Ram 1500 with Brushguard Already Installed
Question:
Can the brackets from the RM-501 be attached directly to the face of the existing brush guard, as it sits exactly where the EZ brackets would mount? Is there any way to make the tow bar brackets and brush guard coexist?
asked by: Steve
Expert Reply:
Unfortunately, the base plates for the 2012 Ram 1500 require a stock configuration meaning the brushguard you have would have to be removed to be able to install them. Since you want to keep the brushguard in place the best solution is to use a trailer to tow the Ram instead of flat towing it.
If you decide to go ahead and remove the brushguard then the base plates # 52289-1 are compatible with the StowMaster tow bar # RM-501 as long as the truck weighs less than 6,000 pounds. If the truck did weigh over 6,000 pounds you would need a different tow bar, the Blackhawk, # RM-422.
You will also need safety cables. For 8,000 pound cables use # RM-645. For 10,000 pound cables use # BX88197.
For lighting you can use the diode kit, # RM-154. Once installed you will not have to worry about setting up a light kit again. I have linked a video showing how the kit installs which will be similar on your truck.
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 Ram brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the easiest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles. A 12 volt outlet kit, # RM-9332, is also recommended.
Be sure to consult your Ram owners manual for specific information on flat towing the truck. I have also included a link to our series of help articles on flat towing for you.
Products Referenced in This Question
Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Roadmaster
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Blue Ox 7' Safety Cables - 10,000 lbs - Qty 2
- Safety Cables
- Coiled Cables
- 84 Inch Long
- 10000 lbs GTW
- Snap Hooks
- Coated Cables
- Blue Ox
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Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 4-Pole Flat Connectors
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Splices into Vehicle Wiring
- Diode Kit
- Universal
- Tail Light Mount
- Roadmaster
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Roadmaster BlackHawk 2 All-Terrain Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 10,000 lbs
- Tow Bar
- Hitch Mount Style
- Telescoping
- Steel
- 10000 lbs
- Fits Roadmaster Base Plates - Direct Connect
- Stores on RV
- Non-Binding
- Roadmaster
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Roadmaster 64" Single Hook, Straight Safety Cables - 8,000 lbs
- Safety Cables
- Straight Cables
- 64 Inch Long
- 8000 lbs GTW
- Snap Hooks
- Coated Cables
- Roadmaster
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Roadmaster Even Brake Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional
- Tow Bar Braking Systems
- Brake Systems
- Proportional System
- Recurring Set-Up
- Portable System
- Not Power Assist Brake Compatible
- Air Brakes
- Air Over Hydraulic Brakes
- Hydraulic Brakes
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Product Page this Question was Asked From
Roadmaster StowMaster Tow Bar - Coupler Style for 2" Ball - Car Mount - 6,000 lbs
- Tow Bar
- Coupler Style
- Telescoping
- Steel
- 6000 lbs
- Fits Roadmaster Base Plates - Crossbar
- Stores on Car
- Standard
- Roadmaster
more information >
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