Do Shutters of Ford Maverick Get Removed to Install Roadmaster Base Plate Kit

Updated 09/10/2025 | Published 03/05/2025

Question:

It seems the shutters are completely removed and not re-installed. Is this correct? Seems like they must be there for a purpose. Will this void the warranty?

asked by: Rick O

Expert Reply:

Hey Rick, I went through the install instructions of the Roadmaster Direct Connect base plate kit part # RM97RR and you actually trim out a whole in the shutters and reinstall them. They are not totally removed. Do you have a tow bar already?

expert reply by: Jameson C

Rick O.

3/5/2025

Nothing yet. Just a brand new Maverick and want to tow it behind a Sprinter Navion. Leaning toward the RoadMaster BP and Demco Duo w/CoachLink. Rick

Jameson C.

3/5/2025

@RickO Two solid options! For a tow bar the Roadmaster Nighthawk part # RM-676 is really nice too.

Teresa B.

7/13/2025

The lower shutters ARE removed. I was arguing this with someone so rewatched the install video, I was telling them the shutters go back on. But they can't. The supports are gone. So please correct that statement.

Jameson C.

7/14/2025

@TeresaB If you check out the attached instructions link you can see there are extensive steps on trimming the shutters to allow them to fit with the base plate kit.

Helpful Links

instructions.aspx?pn=rm97rr

Teresa

7/17/2025

@JamesonC and I did watch, but the lower shutters are completely removed. Not just trimmed. This is on a 2023 Mav

Jimmy D.

9/10/2025

For the record, yes -- the shutters are fully removed and not re-installed. Not only that, they are permanently destroyed and cannot be reinstalled in any fashion later.

Jameson C.

9/10/2025

@JimmyD notice any difference with them being removed?