bing tracking image
  1. Tow Bar Base Plate
  2. Roadmaster
  3. Removable Draw Bars
  4. Twist Lock Attachment
  5. Completely Hidden
THIS ITEM IS NOT A FIT FOR
2014 Ram 1500
etrailer Installation
We'll connect you with nearby partnered installers who know this exact setup.
Roadmaster

Roadmaster EZ Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

Part Number: 521876-1
In Stock
$575.00
Retail:$914.65
You Save: $339.65
Tow Bar Base Plate
Not Confirmed to Fit

2014 Ram 1500

Will this fit?

To see if this custom-fit item will work for you please tell us what vehicle you'll use it with.

zoom in icon
slider vertical icon
zoom out icon
Comment field cannot be left empty.
Name field cannot be left empty.
By submitting this form, you understand and agree to our Terms of Sale, Website Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Thank you! Your comment has been submitted successfully. You should be able to view your question/comment here within a few days.

Error submitting comment. Please try again momentarily.

Product Images

In Use/Installed

Customer Photos

etrailer Installation
We'll connect you with nearby partnered installers who know this exact setup.
Roadmaster's EZ Twistlock series brackets are virtually invisible, easy to mount and simple to remove. Brackets install on your vehicle's frame to provide attachment points for your tow bar. Great Prices for the best tow bar base plate from Roadmaster. Roadmaster EZ Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms part number 521876-1 can be ordered online at etrailer.com or call 1-800-940-8924 for expert service.
  • All Info
  • Reviews (491)
  • Q & A (0)
  • Photos

Roadmaster Tow Bar Base Plate - 521876-1

Highlights

  • Custom Fit for Your Vehicle: Mounts to existing attachment points
  • Ready for Flat Towing: Installs on the frame to create solid attachment points for a tow bar.
  • Blends In When Not Towing: Hidden bracket design keeps the front end looking factory clean.
  • Quick to Connect or Remove: Twist-to-lock arms install or detach without pins or clips.
  • Built to Last: Computer-cut, all-steel brackets with black powder coat resist corrosion.
  • Hassle-Free Setup: Simple, no-weld installation with hardware and instructions included.
Made in USA

Features to know about

Made for a Clean Front End: Hidden Bracket Design with Removable Arms

If you like a clean, factory look when you’re not towing, this base plate kit makes that easy. Once the drawbars are removed, the remaining brackets are virtually invisible—tucked neatly within the grille where they’re protected from scrapes and scuffs. You won’t have any bulky hardware sticking out or catching your shin when walking by.

Hook Up Fast and Easy: EZ Twistlock Attachment

Connecting takes just a quick twist. Each arm inserts into the bracket and locks in place with a simple turn—no pins or clips required. When it’s time to disconnect, twist back and pull the arms out. It’s a smooth, repeatable motion that saves time whether you’re hitching up in your driveway or at a rest stop.

Built to Last: All-Steel Construction with Durable Finish

The base plate is made from computer-cut, all-steel components for exceptional strength and a precise fit. A black powder coat finish resists corrosion and keeps it looking sharp for years of towing. That solid build gives you confidence mile after mile on long trips.

DIY-Friendly Installation: Bolt-On Design with No Welding Required

You don’t need specialized equipment to get this installed. The kit mounts directly to the vehicle frame using included instructions and hardware—no welding involved. Just basic tools and some time in the garage will get the job done right.

Ready for Your Setup: Compatible with All Roadmaster Tow Bars

This base plate works with all Roadmaster tow bars and Quick Disconnects, so you can use the gear you already have without hunting for extra parts. It integrates cleanly into your existing flat tow system for a dependable connection every time you roll out.

Specs

Weight

  • Product weight: 36 lbs

Construction and Design

  • Bracket design: Hidden bracket design provides improved aesthetics compared with standard brackets
  • Drawbar attachment: Twist lock attachment
  • Drawbars: Removable draw bars - just twist and pull, no pins or clips required
  • Construction: Computer-cut, all-steel construction provides exceptional strength
  • Finish: Black powder coat finish is durable and corrosion resistant
  • Installation: Simple installation - no welding required
  • Fitment: Custom base plates ensure a perfect fit for your vehicle
  • Compatibility: Compatible with Quick Disconnects and all Roadmaster tow bars
  • Included accessories: Instructions and mounting hardware included
  • Made in: USA
  • Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty

Vehicle Compatibility

  • Confirmed vehicle fit: 2002 - 2006 Mini Cooper and 2007 - 2008 Mini Cooper Convertible (as referenced in multiple Q&A entries)

Installation Notes

  • Note: The front fascia of the vehicle has to come off to install the Roadmaster base plate kit part #521876-1, but the bumper itself does not have to come off.

521876-1 Road Master EZ Base Plate Kit

Installation Details 521876-1 Installation instructions

This Product Fits The Following Vehicles




Customer Satisfaction Score:

Ratings & Reviews

4.8

491 reviews
Review sort icon
Roadmaster's EZ Twistlock series brackets are virtually invisible, easy to mount and simple to remove. Brackets install on your vehicle's frame to provide attachment points for your tow bar.

by:



by:

Came as promised!



by:

Excellent and fast service!



by:

Dinnie profile picture

Dinnie

3/26/2026

It is working fantastic, one of the better things that I have done i really enjoy the service. Also, it was great timing and getting it here. I really enjoy doing business with you guys. The E trailer is the best. Thank you. Have a good day and a better tomorrow.

Heather A. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Heather A.

3/26/2026

@Dinnie Awe we think you are the best Dinnie! What motorhome are you towing the dinghy with?


by:

I was totally satisfied with the product and your customer service! Thanks for the follow up.



by:

It looks great. I still need to install it waiting for the weather to get better.



by:

Rock solid unit and works like a charm. Totally recommend it.



by:

I will open the box when the rest of the delivery is compleat , please keep me updated, thank you



by:

I absolutely love my eTrailer purchase. Much better price than through any dealer. Directions were clear and easy to follow. And I did the installation all by myself. Thanks eTrailer.



by:

my baseplate was delivered on time and in great shape.



by:

Worth the installation headache. Not really a headache just a little more work than originally thought. Easy install and removal.
Good buy.



by:

The instructions were excellent as is the product quality. With very little effort I was able to install these on my Mini Cooper in less than 1 hour. With only my garage area (no lift) and minimal hand tools the installation was very easy and the end result looks and performs great.



by:

I had some questions prior to ordering, called in and the sales staff were very well informed. I received the hitch plates within 5 days. Took about 2 hours to install. Very pleased with everything.



by:

Shipping was super fast and arrived without damage. I am not ready to install it yet but if it's like the roadmaster tow bar it should be high quality.



by:

Installation is a bit involved but worth every second of it for the peace of mind while driving. Had a slight issue with my ordering incorrect parts but these guys went above and beyond to get it resolved in time to not miss my trip. Even rush manufactured them due to not being in stock!! Great company to do business with.



by:

Great product, price and service. Not the easiest to install. Only Roadmaster base plate that required that the bumper be trimmed but Minnie is very low to the ground.



by:

Everything was top shelf, from customer service to the ordering to the delivery, but, the passenger side holes didn’t line up with the frame. We had to do some additional drilling to make it fit.



by:

Base plate system and roadmaster tow bar work great, we have made 2 cross country trips towing our Mini Cooper and have not had any problems, would highly recommend it for trouble free travels.



by:

Received the base plate and EZ removable crossbar for my 2002 Mini Cooper. Just finished the installation which was pretty difficult probably because there is not much clearance underneath the car. As much as I tried there was no way to install the included U bolts. I also had to trim the backing plates for the frame support (directions indicated that might happen) as well as about 1/8” from the tip of the two forward facing frame bolts in order to get the base plates mounted. Not fun mind you. The drivers side base plate fit perfectly once the trimming was completed. The passenger side was (or still is) a bear as the two rear bolt holes on the flat part of the base plate we off by about a 1/4”. I was able to finally get the forward most bolt installed but still need to open up the rear hole a tad bit more. I’ll tackle that later after all my cuts and scrapes heal. Hopefully, not using the U bolts won’t be an issue.



by:

Installation was pretty straightforward with the help of your excellent video. Overall good experience.



by:

Installed 521876-1 on mini cooper s today. Install went fairly well. Some grinding needed on car subframe to fit bracket to car. Rear hole in subframe needed enlarged slightly to align bolt to nut weldment. All told, very stout product.im happy with it.



by:

Very well constructed. Fitting right side took some adjustment, I had to clearance the lower member hole in order to fit the bolt.
I installed the base plates myself, after the prospective mechanic claimed this was the incorrect fitment. Subsequent calls to Roadmaster produced a "No Fit" pronouncement, in spite of the lookup and even the printed instructions. Undaunted, I proceeded, and the fit was successful. YES, this DOES fit a 2007 Mini Cooper S Convertible.



by:

Installed on 2005 mini cooper convertible. Choose this base plate for our mini since it provided highest attachment height for tow bar (12 inches off ground, only requires 3 inch drop from back of RV), and attaches to mini frame more substantially that blue ox. Installation directions are nearly perfect, we had to widen holes on passenger side to line up with frame. Modification was approved by Roadmaster.



by:

easy to follow instructions, took about 3 hours to install. paper template for holes in facia would be great .



by:

Many reviews for this base plate said they could not hook up the U bolts. I had no problem using the U bolts. I did not tighten any bolts until I had them all in place. Then, I tightened all the nuts and bolts. I marked them with paint so I could see if any of them backed off. After a year, all of them are still tight. We towed our mini 4,000 miles in the first year.

Victoria H. profile picture

Victoria H.

12/18/2024

That amazing John! Where did you go on your long adventure?

John S. profile picture

John S.

12/21/2025

I towed my Mini Cooper on a 5000-mile trip this summer. The Base Plates worked great. I had to replace the water pump on the Cooper this required removing and reinstalling the base plates. I inspected them, and after two years and 9000 miles of towing, they are in perfect shape.


25
25

See what our Experts say about this Roadmaster Tow Bar Base Plate

  • Parts Needed To Flat Tow a 2008 Mini Cooper S with Sport Suspension
    Hey, Trevor. Happy to help out here. We do carry all the parts you need to be able to flat tow your 2008 Mini Cooper S, especially with the Sport Suspension. I reached out to Roadmaster just to make sure of the baseplate fitment. I'll list all the parts below for you. Roadmaster EZ Base Plate Kit Part # 521876-1 etrailer XHD Non-Binding Tow Bar Part # e64ZR Roadmaster Bulb and Socket Tail Light Wiring Kit Part # RM-155 I know most people don't use a braking system when flat towing a...
    view full answer...
  • Roadmaster Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2006 Mini Cooper
    Hey Eric, we have the Roadmaster EZ base plate kit part # 521876-1 that fits your 2006 Mini Cooper which would work great with your Stowmaster 6000 tow bar # RM-504. For lighting you can use the diode kit, # RM-15267, and not have to worry about cutting into the taillight housing. This will splice into your taillight wiring to allow your tow vehicle to control the taillight assemblies of the towed vehicle. This comes with a round 6-way connector that you will install on the front of your...
    view full answer...
  • Will Roadmaster Base Plate on 2005 Mini Cooper Fit Roadmaster Falcon 5250
    Hi Gerald; your Falcon 5250 will work with the Roadmaster EZ Base Plate Kit # 521876-1. However, this is a crossbar style base plate so you will also need the Replacement Quick Disconnect Crossbar Assembly for Roadmaster Tow Bars # 910021-00. What you found is correct, you do not have to use the Bulb and Socket Kit # RM-155. The Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles # RM-15267 is the best option out there and will fit your vehicle. It also gives you a 6-way so you...
    view full answer...
  • Base Plate Kit and Tow Bar for Flat Towing 2007 Mini Cooper Convertible
    Hey Fredrick, flat tow setups are generally harder to make super cheap but the best priced base plate kit we offer is the Roadmaster part # 521876-1 for your 2007 Mini Cooper convertible. Then for a tow bar the Roadmaster part # RM-520 is best option that fits direct to the base plate kit. Do you have the rest of the your flat towing setup already?
    view full answer...
  • Is Adapter Needed when Switching From Roadmaster 501 Tow Bar to Falcon 3HD # RM27NQ
    Hey Ronald, I looked at your older orders and it looks like you have the part # 521876-1 for a base plate kit which is a style that is designed to use a crossbar. You can use that with the Roadmaster Falcon 3HD part # RM27NQ that you referenced but you will also need the crossbar kit part # 910021-00 as well. This will be a big upgrade over your # RM-501!
    view full answer...
  • What Does Roadmaster Base Plate Kit 521876-1 Weigh
    Hey Erick, the Roadmaster base plate kit part # 521876-1 weighs 36 lbs.
    view full answer...
  • Is There Base Plate Kit for Flat Towing that Fits 2005 Mini Cooper S
    Hey Henry, I have a solution for you but the Blue Ox base plate kit does not fit the S models. Instead you would want the Roadmaster part # 521876-1 which has been confirmed as a fit for the S models. Do you have a tow bar?
    view full answer...
  • Roadmaster vs. Blue Ox Base Plates For 2003 Mini Cooper
    That's a good question, and for your 2003 Mini Cooper, the biggest difference between the Blue Ox # BX1303 and Roadmaster # 521876-1 base plates is indeed the tow bars that are compatible. While technically there are adapters that make them cross-compatible, that is an extra step and honestly just more work for you. The mounting point will be approximately the same height, but the Blue Ox will be easier to connect and disconnect, so I definitely recommend the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BX1303. These...
    view full answer...
  • Installation Tips For Installing Roadmaster EZ Baseplate # 521876-1 On A 2002 Mini Cooper
    I've attached the installation video for the Roadmaster EZ Base Plate Kit # 521876-1 below where Ryan will talk about cutting down the tip of the forward facing bolts about 1/8" at the 12 minute mark. At the 12:38 minute mark he'll show you how to install the U-bolts. These bolts are an essential part of the installation and I do not recommend towing your 2002 Mini Cooper until the U-bolts have been installed.
    view full answer...
  • How To Flat Tow 2006 Mini S Convertible With Standard Transmission
    You asked about Blue Ox products, but for your Mini the parts were not compatible to your tow vehicle. To flat tow your 2006 Mini Cooper Convertible S model (with standard transmission) you will first need Roadmaster # 521876-1 base plates which are hidden well and have easy to use twist-lock mechanisms. Next you will need a compatible tow bar. I strongly recommend a non-binding tow bar because with it you will not need to have the vehicle and motorhome perfectly straight and level to...
    view full answer...
  • How Does Removable Arms of Roadmaster Base Plate Kit Remove with Crossbar of Stowmaster
    The crossbar of the Roadmaster Stowmaster # RM-501 stays attached to the removable arms of the base plate kit # 521876-1 which you can leave attached and pull the arms out with the crossbar.
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2006 Mini Cooper S
    If you haven't already check your owner's manual and make sure there aren't any restrictions preventing your 2006 Mini Cooper S from being able to be flat towed. The Roadmaster Base Plate Kit # 521876-1 will fit your Mini as long as you have a convertible. If you have a hardtop then you'll need the Blue Ox Kit # BX1303. I suggest the Optronics Magnetic Tow Lights # TL21RK. These bypass the Mini's wiring completely and will provide a 4-way connector at the front. The lights then mount...
    view full answer...
  • Complete Flat Towing Setup For A 2005 Mini Cooper
    Yes! Along with the Roadmaster Tow Bar Quick Disconnect Kit # RM-201, you will have no issues using the Roadmaster Tracker Tow Bar # RM-020 with the Roadmaster EZ Base Plate Kit # 521876-1 on your 2005 Mini Cooper. If you're interested in a complete flat towing setup you're also going to need: -A braking system like the Brake Buddy Select 3 Portable Supplemental Braking System # HM39524. -A wiring kit like the Roadmaster Tail Light Wiring Kit w/ 7-Way to 6-Wire Connector # RM-152-LED-7. -Safety...
    view full answer...
  • Is The Roadmaster Base Plate Compatible With Blue Ox Tow Bar On a 2003 Mini Cooper S?
    Yes, you can install the Roadmaster EZ Base Plate Kit # 521876-1 on your 2003 Mini Cooper S. This is a much stronger mount in my opinion also than the Blue Ox # BX1303. To use the Roadmaster base plate with your Blue Ox Tow Bar # BX4375 you will need a couple parts. First the base plate requires a Crossbar # 910021-00 to strengthen the front mounts and tie them together. Then you only need the Adapter # RO64FR that you can leave attached the crossbar. The Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire...
    view full answer...
  • Base Plate Recommendation For A 2006 Mini Cooper
    For your 2005 Mini Cooper. I recommend the Roadmaster EZ Base Plate Kit # 521876-1 so you can utilize the Roadmaster StowMaster Tow Bar # RM-501 you mention. This base plate is very easy to disconnect thanks to its EZ Twistlock series brackets, features a hidden bracket design when not in use retaining the factory asthetics of your 2006 Mini Cooper, and includes all the hardware needed for installation.
    view full answer...
  • Can a 2005 Mini Cooper with Manual Transmission be Flat Towed
    I have not heard of any problems regarding flat towing the 2005 Mini Cooper with a 5 or 6-speed manual transmission and the car is considered towable. however, you will need to consult the vehicle owners manual to determine the proper towing procedure for the car. There should be a towing section in the manual that covers whether or not it can be towed and if there are any specific requirements. If you find that it can be flat towed, there are 5 items you will need for a basic flat towing...
    view full answer...
  • Tip for Aligning Bolt Holes of Base Plate Kit that Do Not Line Up Perfectly
    In situations like yours we recommend loosening all of the bolts that hold the base plate kit to the frame and then starting all of them individually before torquing any. This gives a bit more more wiggle room for the bolts to fit. Was the vehicle ever in an accident by chance?
    view full answer...
    Image 1 for
  • Completing a Flat Tow Setup for a 2005 Mini Cooper When you Already Have a Tow Bar
    If you already have the Falcon 5250 tow bar and safety cables, the only remaining pieces you need are a base plate, wiring for lights, and a brake system. For your base plate, the one for your 2005 Mini Cooper that is compatible with the Falcon 5250 is the Roadmaster EZ Base Plate Kit, part # 521876-1. It has removeable arms and is compatible with all Roadmaster tow bars (like the Falcon). For the wiring (which is needed to power a brake system), you can use the Roadmaster Tail Light...
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Parts to Flat Tow a 2006 Mini Cooper S
    To flat tow your 2006 Mini Cooper S you will need the following parts: Tow Bar and Safety Chains - etrailer SD Non-Binding Tow Bar for Crossbar-Style Base Plates item # e44ZR Base Plate Kit - Roadmaster Crossbar Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms item # 521876-1 Wiring Harness - Roadmaster Tail Light Wiring Kit w/ 7-Way to 6-Wire Connector item # RM-152-LED-7 Supplemental Braking System - Brake Buddy Select 3 Portable Supplemental Braking System item # HM39524 High Low Adapter -...
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2006 Mini Cooper with a Blue Ox Base Plate Kit
    The Roadmaster Base Plate Kit that fits your 2006 Mini Cooper is a part # 521876-1 but from the picture you sent in it looks like you actually have the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BX1303 instead. If you are missing the pins then those can be found as part # BLU57XR on our site (this comes as a pair). You may want to make sure that the base plate kit itself doesn't need to be replaced though. The opening there looks a little rough so you may want to try sanding it and applying some Rustoleum....
    view full answer...
    Image 1 for
  • Car Mounted Tow Bar for Use with Roadmaster Crossbar Base Plate 521876-1
    The Roadmaster Stowmaster tow bar part # RM-501 is a great choice for a tow bar that attaches to a hitch ball that is compatible with the Cross Bar base plate kit part # 521876-1 that fits your 2007 Mini.
    view full answer...
  • How To Operate the Tail Lights of a 2008 Mini Cooper while Being Flat Towed Behind an RV
    For activating the tail lights of your 2008 Mini Cooper with your RV while the Mini is being flat-towed you will want to check out the FAQs I attached that detail how this is done. The process and installation will be the exact same as what you would need to do to install a diode kit on your vehicle. Basically, you will use a set of diodes installed in your vehicle to operate the tail lights of you vehicle with the tow bar wiring from your RV. This will not affect the functioning of your...
    view full answer...
  • Does Front Bumper Have to Come Off to Install Roadmaster Base Plate Kit # 521876-1
    The front fascia of the vehicle has to come off to install the Roadmaster base plate kit part # 521876-1 but the bumper itself does not have to come off.
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2005 Mini Cooper Convertible with Blue Ox Tow Bar
    For the 2005 Mini Cooper Convertible we have the Roadmaster base plate kit part # 521876-1 as a confirmed fit. For an adapter to allow a Blue Ox Alpha # BX7380 tow bar to attach you need the part # RM-032. For lighting you can use the diode kit, # RM-15267, and not have to worry about cutting into the taillight housing. This will splice into your taillight wiring to allow your tow vehicle to control the taillight assemblies of the towed vehicle. This comes with a round 6-way connector...
    view full answer...


< Previous
12



Do you have a question about this Tow Bar Base Plate?


Info for this part was:

Employee Lindsey S
Written by:
Lindsey S
Employee Robert G
Expert Research:
Robert G
Employee Jameson C
Expert Research:
Jameson C
Employee Joshua S
Video by:
Joshua S
Employee Jacob T
Video Edited:
Jacob T
Employee Dustin K
Video Edited:
Dustin K
Employee Adele M
Updated by:
Adele M
Employee Wilson B
Updated by:
Wilson B
Employee Isabelle B
Updated by:
Isabelle B
Employee Ryan G
Test Fit:
Ryan G

At etrailer we provide the best information available about the products we sell. We take the quality of our information seriously so that you can get the right part the first time. Let us know if anything is missing or if you have any questions.