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  1. Tow Bar Base Plate
  2. Roadmaster
  3. Removable Draw Bars
  4. Twist Lock Attachment
  5. Partially Hidden
THIS ITEM IS NOT A FIT FOR
2019 Toyota Highlander
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Roadmaster

Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

Part Number: RM-52300-5
In Stock
$670.00
Retail:$742.50
You Save: $72.50
Tow Bar Base Plate
Not Confirmed to Fit

2019 Toyota Highlander

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Designed for use with motor-home-mounted tow bars, the direct-connect brackets are virtually invisible, easy to mount and remove, and they eliminate the need for a quick-disconnect crossbar on your tow bar. Installs on your vehicle's frame. Great Prices for the best tow bar base plate from Roadmaster. Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms part number RM-52300-5 can be ordered online at etrailer.com or call 1-800-940-8924 for expert service.
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Roadmaster Tow Bar Base Plate - RM-52300-5

Highlights

  • Custom Fit for Your Vehicle: Mounts to existing attachment points
  • Ready for Flat Towing: Provides secure connection points for motor-home-mounted tow bars.
  • Blends In When Not Towing: Hidden brackets sit back in the grille for a clean, low-profile look.
  • Easy Hookup and Removal: Twist-lock arms click in place and release with built-in pull rings.
  • Built to Last: Computer-cut, all-steel construction with black powder coat resists corrosion.
  • Simple Installation: Mounts to the frame with included hardware—no welding required.
Made in USA

Features to know about

Made for a Clean Look: Hidden Design with Removable Arms

When you’re not towing, there’s nothing bulky or awkward left on the front end. The direct-connect brackets sit deep within the grille, so the setup is virtually invisible once the arms are removed. You won’t have to deal with an obtrusive quick-disconnect crossbar, and the result is a clean, streamlined appearance that keeps everything protected from scuffs and scrapes.

Hook Up in Seconds: Twist-Lock, Pull-Pin Connection

Getting ready to tow doesn’t have to be a chore. Each drawbar slides into the bracket, clicks to lock, and is released with a built-in pull ring—no tools or fuss. The twist-and-lock system makes connecting fast and straightforward whether you’re doing it alone or in a tight space. It’s an easy, reliable setup that saves time every time you hook up or disconnect.

Strong Where It Counts: All-Steel Construction with Black Powder Coat

This base plate kit bolts directly to the vehicle frame for a solid foundation that’s made to handle long hauls. The computer-cut, all-steel construction provides exceptional strength while the black powder coat finish adds corrosion resistance. It’s built to stay secure and hold up mile after mile without welding or extra fabrication.

Ready for Your Tow Bar Setup: Roadmaster Direct-Connect Compatibility

Designed specifically for Roadmaster motor-home-mounted tow bars that slide into a trailer hitch—like the Nighthawk, Sterling, Blackhawk, Blackhawk 2, Falcon, or Falcon 2—this kit delivers a perfect match right out of the box. If you’re running a different tow bar brand, adapters such as Demco’s Tow Bar Adapter Brackets # DM9523032 can make them compatible. Instructions and mounting hardware are included so you can get everything bolted up and ready to go.

Specs

Construction and Design

  • Type: Direct-connect brackets provide attachment points for motor-home-mounted tow bar
  • Design: Streamlined design creates supremely clean look with hidden brackets sitting farther back than standard brackets
  • Build Material: Computer-cut, all-steel construction provides exceptional strength
  • Finish: Black powder coat finish is durable and corrosion resistant
  • Mounting: Installs on vehicle’s frame
  • Installation: Simple installation - no welding required
  • Visibility: Virtually invisible when drawbars are removed
  • Fitment: Custom base plates ensure a perfect fit for your vehicle
  • Compatibility: Compatible with Roadmaster motor-home-mounted tow bars only
  • Included Components: Instructions and mounting hardware included
  • Country of Manufacture: Made in the USA
  • Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty

Operation

  • Attachment Mechanism: Arms click to lock in place in brackets; built-in pull rings let you unlock arms to twist and remove them
  • Removable Arms: Drawbars attach and remove quickly and easily using twist lock attachment
  • Bracket Location: Brackets mount within the grille for protection from scrapes and scuffs

Note

Roadmaster direct-connect base plates will only work with Roadmaster tow bars that slide into a trailer hitch, such as the Nighthawk, Sterling, Blackhawk, Blackhawk 2, Falcon, or Falcon 2. These base plates will not work with tow bars that require a hitch ball.

52300-5 Road Master EZ-5 Base Plate Kit

Installation Details RM-52300-5 Installation instructions

This Product Fits The Following Vehicles




Customer Satisfaction Score:

Ratings & Reviews

4.8

3690 reviews
5 Stars
(3214)
4 Stars
(316)
3 Stars
(67)
2 Stars
(30)
1 Star
(63)
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by:
John S. profile picture

John S.

8/22/2025

Zero problems with the tow bar, and very pleased with the product. Weve travelled extensively and had no issues whatsoever.

by:
2016 Smart fortwo
the video was very helpful look easy to install great product
by:
by:
by:
2026 ford Ranger
Had these installed at Lester’s Automotive in Boerne,Texas…First class service all the way. Paul and his crew worked through lunch for over 4 hours to install these on our 2026 Ford Ranger. Also ran the wire and hooked up my auxiliary tow lights. The price for this was very reasonable and would highly recommend them for all r.v. needs even if not real close to the Boerne area. R.V park within reasonable distance if needed.
by:
2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Etrailer comes through again! This was a great savings as a used kit, but it was even better than the description online. I have installed (4) baseplates on and etrailer.com has given me great videos to watch and good instructions to follow. Couldn't be more pleased with the quality, service and delivery times.
Gwendolyn Y. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Gwendolyn Y.

2/12/2025

Install looks great, Jeff! Do you have any plans of where you are going to go this season yet?

Jeff profile picture

Jeff

2/12/2026

I’ve pulled the Chevy behind our motor home several times over a the last year. It has worked excellent. And when not in tow the tubing is barely noticeable.

by:
2019 Ford Transit T250
This Road Master Direct connect base plate works perfectly for a 2020 ford transit cargo 250! Awesome service from etrailer as usual! The finished product can barely be seen through the front fascia!
by:
Easy to install needed to replace some fasteners as they broke removing front grill was able to get them from Amazon cheap
Gwendolyn Y. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Gwendolyn Y.

2/26/2026

Looks great, Mark! Where are you off to next?

by:
Awesome instructions! Install was fairly easy. Product is very high quality and solid construction. Thank you E Trailer!
Heather A. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Heather A.

4/10/2026

Wow great job Crystal! It looks great! Also, I couldn’t help but notice “Ski Express” on the car, that’s pretty cool. What kind of work do you do?

Crystal R. profile picture

Crystal R.

4/10/2026

@HeatherA I’m a pilot car driver. We escort oversized loads across the country. Thanks to E Trailer I was able to add a High pole to my car expanding my business and bringing in more revenue already. Thanks!
by:
2015 Jeep Wrangler
It mounted up just as the instructions said it would. From previous research I was not surprised when some of the mounting did not align perfectly. Had to use a dremel tool to make it work. The product looks very sturdy from its design. I’m happy with it and look forward to RV traveling.
by:
Pathetic and just talking to Noah he states he will get to my issue later when he has time!! My car is on jacks all torn apart and I think Roadmaster gas misled advertising. This 523228-5 baseplate is NOT MADE FOR 2026 CHEVY TRAX!!!
Mike L. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Mike L.

9/23/2026

Which trim is your 2026 Chevy Trax? Per Roadmaster, the # RM25EQ (523228-5) fits all trims of the 2026 Trax except the ACTIV trim....

Larry profile picture

Larry

9/23/2026

The 523228-5 DOES NOT FIT MY 2026 CHEVY TRAX LT! Look at the side braces in your video of a Demco base plate install (upside down "U"). That is what is needed for my install. In Roadmasters install instructions, page 7, items #2, #3 have no frame in that area to bolt to & #5 has only one ho l e on bact end and putting a bolt in that hole leaves 3/4" short of main base plate. I sent pics to verify this to Noah on 9/22 @ 11:46AM. I know, unless you tried this install personally you are going by Roadmaster's word. BE CAREFUL IN SUGGESTING THIS FIT UNTIL YOU VERIFY. I just do not want someone else to have this experience. Thoughts ?
by:
Chevrolet TrailBlazer
This works perfect with my Roadmaster tow bar. It was a little difficult to install since I had to remove the front end of the Trailblazer, but with the good directions that came with it and some you tube videos made the installation easier.
David profile picture

David

8/2/2026

It’s been a great year. No problems with the base plate. Works great with my tow bar. Towed my trailblazer from Texas to North Dakota and back, and several short trips.

Jerred H. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Jerred H.

8/2/2026

@David That is great to hear David! Thanks for coming back and sharing that feedback. I appreciate you taking the time.
by:
2017 f150
Customer service was very helpful. Easy to install. No bumper or grill cutting however, you do loose your front hooks. Nice low profile.
by:
2013 jeep Wrangler
I bought and installed this tow plate one year ago on my 2013 Jeep Wrangler. I bought this particular plate due to the jeep having a Barricade off-road bumper. This plate attaches a bit lower than other plates and prevented having to modify the bumper. Installation was easy involving only hand tools. The plate comes with all needed bolts and attachments. I have towed this Jeep several thousand miles behind my RV with absolutely no issues. As an aside, I use a Roadmaster Night Hawk tow bar which is also an excellent product. Both are expensive, but I believe cheaping-out on safety is no a good idea. I highly recommend this product.
Gary S. profile picture

Gary S.

6/19/2026

No issues at all. This is a solid piece of equipment.

Heather A. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Heather A.

6/19/2026

@GaryS Thank you for letting us know! What is your favorite adventure so far?
by:
I just followed your video of the installation and it was on point !
by:
I have lots of issues with this tow bar. Initial installation was difficult due to a tight fit. Had to have my mechanic cut holes in frame to get bolts attached. After a few times of use the bolts failed causing the bar to fall fwd that then damaged my hitch arms. To fix I drilled new hole through bar and frame securing it with a #8 bolt. To reinforce it I used turnbuckles attached to my bumper. last tow finally went well.
by:
It’s a super strong and wonderfully engineered addition to my new Maverick pickup.. Couldn’t be happier with it!!!!! Well done!!!!
by:
The product is great - I gave 4 vs 5 stars only because I had to drill the rear holes out as they did not align with the holes in my frame and I had to drill out the hole in the bracket to align with my frame extension hole, again bracket did not align with the existing hole. However, in general it appears to be a solid mount.
by:
Great Base plate, had to modify the non-oem bumper a little to get the clearance needed to get mounting holes lined up. Once that was done, everything went pretty quickly finished and tested. Towed 600 miles and worked flawlessly. Much better than using the bumper tow points, as they were elevated causing a very bouncy towed on bridge aprons. Bumper tow points also let the towed have minor side to side movement, this does not, so a lot better towing experience.
by:
2024 Chevrolet Colorado
I had hoped to employ a mounting bracket assembly I had bought on-line used. It would have required extensive modification with an unsure outcome. I found this assembly at etrailer for a reasonable price and ordered it to remove uncertainty from the installation. Etrailer was helpful in completing the rest of my needs for a brake assembly also. Good people.
by:
The Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit has performed flawlessly over the past year. With almost 10k miles logged during our 3 month trip across the US, the components have remained as installed and operated as expected.
by:
I really like the way it is hidden and doesn't stick out like a sore thumb. My Rubicon X has a metal skid under the bumper that I cut holes in for the base plate tabs to protrude. I made 5 or 6 trips to my shop to get it right. Would be nice if it came with a paper template showing where to trim. It bolted up perfectly and seems well made.
by:
2018 Mazda Miata
I installed this base plate on a 2018 Miata RF. I think I recall something about it taking 3.5 hours and my initial estimate was 3.5 days. It actually took a bit longer than that, but I was not pushing myself and did not have the luxury of having the vehicle on a lift but had it up on two ramps for the front wheels.

The order came pretty quickly, probably about 4 or 5 days between the time I placed it and UPS delivered it. The parts were well packaged and it came with a printed set of instructions. I had watched the video install on another Miata and if it weren't for that I'm not sure I would have tried it. I'm not a pro mechanic by any means but have worked on my own vehicles now for over 40 years. And I'm not a spring chicken either, so all the up and down working on the car can tire me fairly quickly. But if you are not in a rush and go carefully it can be done.

It took a day to do most of the disassembly. I removed both headlights and the intake tube on the passenger side. That tube came out much easier then it went back in.

The next day I got the baseplate mounted which helped to start visualizing how it all would work. All of the holes for the 6mm bolts did not quite line up with the holes in the frame. I had to file one sides worth for a bit of extra clearance. From my experience on this install you really want to leave all the bolt on the loose side till you get everything situated.

A couple of days off for rain and the then I got to work on the bracing. Initially I though I didnt need to cut the top lip of the frame but I decided to go ahead and do it anyway since that part didnt seem to sit flat when bolted from the back end. I'm still not sure its really necessary as the hump clears the metal lip without cutting it.

I also ordered a 14" long 1/2" drill bit to cut the holes in the frame. It was a Bosch bit, wasnt very expensive and it went through the metal like the proverbial hot knife. I managed to get all the big bolts installed in a day with a great sense of satisfaction.

The next day I torqued down all the bolts and the mount felt very solid. They stress that you need to install all the bolts, but honestly I can't see the 6mm bolts doing much compared to the half inch bolts that do most or all of the work. But I put them in and tightened them all the same.

A couple of days spent to install the tail light wiring and then I got back on to putting the front clip back on. My car must have had an aftermarket grill since it did not match the pictures or the video. I tried to position it carefully to see where the parts that were going to stick out would be so I didnt cut out more than I needed to. So there was a good amount of back and forth, cut and fit. In the end I had to make some extra cuts for clearance for the safety cable tabs as well as the mount for the 6 wire connector. Until I made the extra cuts the lower part of the front clip would not seat correctly. Getting the clip in the right position so it fits under the lights also takes some finagling.

Figuring out where all the bolts go back in can be interesting. Take pictures where you can. Dont be too aggressive when working with plastic parts. Overall I'm satisfied with the install, but I have yet to try and hook it up to tow.
Gwendolyn Y. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Gwendolyn Y.

4/18/2025

Wow, Bob! Thank you for such the detailed review and feedback about how your install went. I also appreciate all the photos you sent as well. I cant wait to hear about how your first tow goes and where you head off to.

by:
2002 Honda CR-V. Easy to install. Two and a half hours, and stopped to eat a sandwich. To install the spacers inside the roll frame on the car I used an extension magnet to reach in there and position them. As you can see NO cutting was needed on the bumper cover!
Now I have to figure out the easiest way to run the wiring for the lights.
Thanks Lauren A for your help!
Gwendolyn Y. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Gwendolyn Y.

6/4/2025

Install for the base plate looks awesome, Joe! Unsure if you have a wiring kit yet but there are a few options so I'll go ahead share them with you here in case you don't yet. The most popular kit would be part # RM-15267. This can be difficult to install but it is the most reliable. I've also linked an install video for this kit. Something that still has an integrated look but easier to install I would go with part # RM-155. You do have to drill some holes into the back of the light housing, so if you're okay with doing that, this may be the better kit. Also included an install video for that kit as well. Hopefully the videos will help you get a good idea of how to run the wiring for your lights. Let me know if you have any questions after watching!

by:
It takes a while. Better if you have a car lift ( we have a lift )
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See what our Experts say about this Roadmaster Tow Bar Base Plate

  • What Setup do I Need to Prep My 2016 Smart fortwo for Flat-Towing?
    While we do not sell 2016 Smart fortwo vehicles that are prepped to flat-tow, we do offer the parts you need for flat-towing an existing 2016 Smart fortwo you own. If you are planning to flat-tow a 2016 Smart fortwo with an automatic transmission on a class B motorhome, it is important to note that the owner's manual for the vehicle does not recommend flat-towing for more than 50km, so it is not recommended. However, to tow the Smart fortwo, you will need the following parts: - Roadmaster...
    view full answer...
  • Is There A Base Plate For A 2016 Smart Car?
    Hi Greg! As long as your 2016 Smart fortwo is not an electric model, we have the Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # RM-52300-5 that is a direct fit. This is a Roadmaster direct connect style base plate, so you want a tow bar that can attach properly. I included an option below as well as all the other parts you will need to get a full set up put together, in case you needed them. etrailer SD Non-Binding Tow Bar for Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plates - RV Mount...
    view full answer...
  • Base Plate Kit Compatible With Demco Tow Bar for 2016 Smart fortwo
    Hi Gary; since Demco doesn't make a base plate kit for the 2016 Smart fortwo you can use the Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # RM-52300-5. You will also need the Demco Tow Bar Adapter Brackets for Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plates # DM9523032 to make the two compatible.
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Flat Tow Setup for 2017 Smart Fortwo
    Hello again Wayne. It doesn't look like any of the major manufacturers make a base plate kit for the 2021 Smart Fortwo. Are you aware of someone that makes one? I don't see anything in a general search either to see if there is a way to adapt any of the tow bars to it.
    view full answer...
  • Products For Flat Towing A 2017 Smart Car
    The pricing for Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms item # RM-52300-5, Roadmaster Falcon All Terrain, Non-Binding Tow Bar - Motorhome Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,000 lbs Item # RM-522, RoadMaster 68" Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables - 6,000 lbs Item # RM-643, and Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 7-Wire to 6-Wire Straight Cord Item # RM-152-98146-7 are all listed on the website under each product and are separate items. They are not available as...
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2017 Smart Fortwo Behind and RV with a Tracker Tow Bar
    Roadmaster has EZ4 base plates # RM-52300-4 and EZ5 base plates # RM-52300-5 for the 2017 Smart Fortwo. But the Tracker tow bar, # RM-020, will only work with the EZ4 base plates # RM-52300-4. I have included a link to the installation instructions for you. In addition to the tow bar and base plates you will also need safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking to flat tow the Smart car. For cables you can use # RM-643. The coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground. For...
    view full answer...
  • What Does Roadmaster Base Plate Kit # RM-52300-5 Weigh
    The Roadmaster base plate kit part # RM-52300-5 that you referenced weighs a total of 48 lbs. A typical tow bar like the Falcon 2 part # RM-520 weighs 61 lbs.
    view full answer...

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Info for this part was:

Employee Lindsey S
Edited by:
Lindsey S
Employee Jameson C
Expert Research:
Jameson C
Employee Jacob T
Video Edited:
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Employee Shelly K
Written by:
Shelly K
Employee Wilson B
Updated by:
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Employee Mike S
Updated by:
Mike S
Employee Isabelle B
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Employee David F
Test Fit:
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