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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
2027 Jeep Recon
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Roadmaster

Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

Part Number: RM-523173-5
In Stock
$575.00
Retail:$632.50
You Save: $57.50
Tow Bar Base Plate
Not Confirmed to Fit

2027 Jeep Recon

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etrailer Installation
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Designed for use with motor-home-mounted tow bars, direct-connect brackets eliminate the need for a crossbar on your tow bar. Twist-lock arms are virtually invisible, easy to mount, and simple to remove. 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-523173-5 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-523173-5

Highlights

  • Custom Fit for Your Vehicle: Mounts to existing attachment points
  • Ready for Flat Towing: Direct-connect brackets create secure attachment points for your RV tow bar.
  • Blends In When Not Towing: Hidden design keeps brackets virtually invisible after removing the arms.
  • Fast Hookup and Removal: Twist-lock drawbars click in place and release with a built-in pull ring.
  • Built to Last: Computer-cut, all-steel construction with black powder coat resists corrosion.
  • Simple DIY Install: Mounts to the frame with included hardware—no welding required.
Made in USA

Features to know about

Clean Front End When You’re Not Towing: Hidden Direct-Connect Design

If you like a setup that doesn’t clutter your front bumper, this one keeps things tidy. The direct-connect brackets sit farther back than standard mounts so nothing bulky sticks out. Once the removable arms are off, the remaining brackets are virtually invisible and protected from scrapes inside the grille. No need for a crossbar either—the tow bar slides straight into the hitch for a clean, simple look.

Quick Hook-Up and Disconnect: Twist-Lock Removable Arms

Hooking up doesn’t have to be a wrestling match. Each drawbar slides into its bracket, twists to lock, and clicks in place so you know it’s secure. When it’s time to unhook, just pull the built-in release ring, twist the arm back, and slide it out. The twist-lock setup makes it fast and easy to connect or remove even if you’re working solo.

Built Strong for Long Miles: All-Steel, Computer-Cut Construction

This base plate is built from computer-cut steel with precise welds for solid alignment and dependable strength. The black powder coat finish resists corrosion through rain, dust, and road grime. Bolting directly to the vehicle frame spreads towing loads evenly without welding—so you can trust it for long hauls without worrying about fatigue or flex.

DIY-Friendly Setup: Bolt-On Install with Clear Instructions

If you’re handy and have basic tools, this is a project you can handle in your own garage. One reviewer knocked it out in a few hours, drilling just four holes before bolting everything up. The fit is spot-on, alignment is straightforward, and the included instructions walk you through each step for a clean install that feels solid once you’re done.

Specs

Features

  • Direct-connect brackets: Provide attachment points for your motorhome-mounted tow bar
  • Compatibility: Only compatible with Roadmaster tow bars that slide into a trailer hitch
  • Streamlined design: Creates supremely clean look
  • No obtrusive quick-disconnect crossbar: Ensures a cleaner setup
  • Hidden brackets: Sit even farther back than standard brackets
  • Twistlock drawbars: Attach and remove quickly and easily
  • Arms: Click to lock in place in brackets
  • Built-in pull rings: Let you unlock arms so you can twist and remove them
  • Computer-cut, all-steel construction: Provides exceptional strength
  • Black powder coat finish: Durable and corrosion resistant
  • Simple installation: No welding required
  • Custom base plates: Ensure a perfect fit for your vehicle
  • Instructions and mounting hardware: Included
  • Made in: The USA
  • Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty

Note

  • Compatibility 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.
  • Cable Compatibility: The safety cables included with Roadmaster's Sterling tow bars will not work with these direct-connect base plates and require crossbar-style base plates instead.

523173-5 Road Master Direct Connect EZ-5 Twist Lock Base Plate Kit

Installation Details RM-523173-5 Installation instructions

This Product Fits The Following Vehicles




Customer Satisfaction Score:

Ratings & Reviews

4.8

3702 reviews
5 Stars
(3226)
4 Stars
(316)
3 Stars
(67)
2 Stars
(30)
1 Star
(63)
Review Sort Icon
by:
Good product. If you are reasonably handy and have some tools, you can install this yourself in a few hours. I'm a mechanic, it took me a little over 2 hours to install on my own toad. The fit is good, there are 4 holes you have to drill, otherwise it is plug and play. When you insert and twist lock the tow bar mounts into their sockets they feel a little sloppy but they are secure, and i never noticed any rattle when towing. Overall i give it a 4 out of 5 for easy install and clean look after install. Pic included of installed base plate.
Richard profile picture

Richard

3/11/2025

I’ve towed the car many times even behind a semi truck a couple times and the base plate and the towbar works flawlessly. I have not had one problem super easy on super easy off very satisfied.

Bryce D. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Bryce D.

3/11/2025

@Richard That's really great to hear! Did you take any memorable trips?
by:
2012 Chevrolet Sonic
Roadmaster EZ-5 base plate install on 2012 Chevy Sonic. My wife and I completed the install in about 5 hours. The Roadmaster directions are good but skip from step 5 to step 7. There should be a step 6 that describes how to pull the bumper cover away from the fender without ruining the slots on the bumper cover that match tabs on the lower part of the fender. We went to the etrailer install video to see how they removed the bumper cover. We did just what the video showed and ended up tearing the slots so now the bumper cover sticks out a little at the front of the fender. The fit of the EZ-5 base plate was very good. Cutting the lower grill for the tow bar adapters was fairly easy and doesn't look too bad. The kit was missing a couple of the 1/2" washers, otherwise a complete kit. We are happy with our install and saved hundreds of dollars doing the work ourselves.
by:
2015 Chevrolet Sonic
Excellent installation video really helped. This is the second of your baseplates that I have installed and this video shortened my install time from 8 hours to 5 hours. Wife is picky and loves the product.
by:
2014 Chevrolet Sonic
Installation was per the directions with no problems.
by:
2012 Chevrolet Sonic
Tow bar bracket arrived quick lnstructions were easy to follow took about 3 hrs to install very pleased with everything will recommend installed on a 2012 Chevy sonic
by:
2014 Chevrolet Sonic
Perfect installation. works as advertised..
by:
2012 Chevrolet Sonic
Wow! Heavy duty plate. Love it!
by:
Works great so far! Annoying enough to install that we used a local shop but it's been zero drama since then.
by:
Very easy to install . Took about 1 and half hours and it looks perfect
by:
2012 Chevrolet Sonic
Easy install and quality product.
by:

Very Good Service

Thanks again
Greg.


by:
2012 Chevrolet Sonic
worked as expected.
by:
2014 Chevrolet Sonic
satisfied with product,easy to install no problems
by:
Product is great and was shipped very quickly.
by:
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1999 Ford F-53
by:
2015 Chevrolet Sonic
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:
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.
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See what our Experts say about this Roadmaster Tow Bar Base Plate

  • Can I Flat Tow a 2016 Chevy Sonic 1.4 Turbo with Manual Transmission
    Hey Justin, thanks for reaching out! According to the online version of the 2016 Chevy Sonic manual, all of the Sonic models can be flat towed unless it's the RS model with an auto transmission, so it looks like you're good to go. I recommend verifying this in your copy of the manual as well. To get your Sonic flat tow ready I recommend picking up the following parts: - Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM-523173-5 - etrailer SD Non-Binding Tow Bar # e74ZR - Roadmaster Smart...
    view full answer...
  • Can a 2015 Chevy Sonic with Automatic Transmission be Flat Towed
    Everything I have found on the 2015 Chevy Sonics with automatic transmissions is that they are flat-towable as-is. First you would need to start with a base plate kit. For that you would want the part # RM-523173-5 which is a confirmed fit. I attached an install video for this for you to check out as well. In addition to the base plates, you will also need a compatible tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking to flat tow your vehicle. The most popular compatible tow...
    view full answer...
  • What is the Difference Between Roadmaster Direct Connect and Crossbar Style Base Plates?
    To answer the essence of your question before getting into some specifics, the difference between the cross bar and direct connect style of base plate can be broken down like this: the Roadmaster Direct Connect Base Plate # RM-523173-5 is going to provide for an easier connection to your tow bar than the Roadmaster Crossbar Style Base Plates # 523173-4 . A lot of people stick with Crossbar style base plates because they have an old tow bar they want to continue using from a previously...
    view full answer...
  • Complete Flat Towing Setup for a 2016 Chevrolet Sonic
    According to the owner's manual, all but the RS automatic models of the 2016 Sonic can be flat towed. So with that said, as long as that does not apply to your car you're good to go. If you're needing a list of parts for flat towing, you're going to need: A base plate # RM-523173-5, a set of tow bars # RM-522, a wiring kit # RM26FR with a fuse bypass # RM76511, and a braking system # BLU37TR with a 12V outlet kit # RM-9332. This is a pretty involved task so I'd honestly recommend taking...
    view full answer...
  • Can a 2015 Chevy Sonic RS Manual Transmission Be Flat Towed?
    The 2015 Chevy Sonic RS Turbo with Manual transmission is towable. You will want to follow the instructions in the owners manual for procedures. They recommend running the vehicle for 5 minutes prior to towing so you will have proper lubrication of the transmission components. It is also recommended to not tow over 65 mph. I recommend starting with the Roadmaster EZ5 Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # RM-523173-5 for your custom fit base plates and then using the Roadmaster Falcon 2...
    view full answer...
  • Flat Towing a 2016 Chevy Sonic Behind a Motorhome
    To flat tow your 2016 Chevrolet Sonic you're going to need several items. For starters, I recommend the Roadmaster Sterling Tow Bar # RM-576 which connects to your RV by your trailer hitch receiver. It's non-binding, making it easier to connect to your Sonic and the Alpha comes with safety cables. Next you'll need the Roadmaster base plate kit # RM-523173-5 which is compatible with your Sonic. It's fairly easy to install, with no welding and is barely noticeable when the arms are...
    view full answer...
  • Can a 2015 Chevrolet Sonic LTZ With Automatic Transmission Be Flat Towed?
    While your 2015 Chevrolet Sonic LTZ with an automatic transmission can be flat towed I would recommend using a Dolly # DM9713045 since you are required to stop and run the engine when towing(see owners manual) for extended periods of times. This dolly also fold up which is great when you do not have a lot of storage area. If you do not mind the additional steps while flat towing here is a list of the components you will need. Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate # RM-523173-5 Roadmaster...
    view full answer...
  • What Gear Should 2016 Chevy Sonic Be In When Flat Towed Automatic Transmission
    I was able to pull up the owners manual of your 2016 Chevy Sonic online and on page 291 I was able to find the protocol for flat towing the vehicle: Put the transmission in park and then turn the ignition to off. Set the parking brake. To prevent battery drain remove the DLIS fuse from fuse block see page 252. Turn the ignition to the ACC position. Shift the transmission into neutral. Release the parking brake and you're ready to go. You'll need to put the DLIS fuse back in before...
    view full answer...
  • Can 2015 Chevrolet Sonic W/ Automatic Transmission Be Flat Towed?
    You are correct that your 2015 Chevrolet Sonic with the automatic transmission can be flat towed as long as it is not an RS model. You can install a battery charge line # RM-156-25 and # RM-156-75 if you like but they are not needed as pulling the DLIS fuse from the passenger fuse panel will eliminate any draw on the battery. Since your vehicle is an automatic you will flat tow it in neutral with the key turned to the ACC/On position and you will need to run the each morning and at each...
    view full answer...
  • Why Does Demco DUO Braking System Need to Wire to Tow Bar Lighting of Vehicle
    I attached a wiring diagram that details how the Demco DUO part # SM99251 installs with the tow bar wiring kit you are installing part # RM-155. I also attached an install video for both kits as well. The connections that the DUO makes to the tow bar wiring are to allow it to know when you are applying the tow vehicle brakes basically.
    view full answer...
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  • Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2012 Chevy Sonic
    All of the parts you mentioned are a fit for your 2012 Chevy Sonic. The base plate kit part # 523173-4 is a confirmed fit and the other parts like the Roadmaster tow bar part # RM-520, safety cables # RM-643, and braking system # RM-9400 are a great fit. Since you will be using a magnetic light kit you don't need the relay # RM-88400 though.
    view full answer...
  • Does Cooling Modifications Required to Install Base Plate on a 2016 Chevy Sonic Affect Cooling
    There are some minor modifications needed to install the base plates for the 2016 Chevy Sonic like the part # 523173-4 and # 523173-5. Roadmaster has tested the vehicles thoroughly after making these modifications to determine that there was no adverse affect on the vehicles. Some holes need to be enlarged on the bumper, but there is no frame modifying to install the Roadmaster base plates.
    view full answer...
  • Tow Bar that Attaches Directly to Roadmaster Base Plate Kit # RM-523173-5
    We do not carry the NSA Ready Brute tow bar but we do have tow bars that attach directly to the Roadmaster base plate kit part # RM-523173-5 like with the Roadmaster Falcon All Terrain part # # RM-522.
    view full answer...
  • Does Blue Ox Base Plate Adapter Kit BX88185 Work with EZ5 Base Plate Kits
    Yes, the Blue Ox Tow Bar to Roadmaster Base Plate Adaptor part # BX88185 is designed to work with EZ5 base plate kits like the part # 523173-5 that you referenced. I attached an install video for the base plate kit for you to check out as well.
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2014 Chevy Sonic and Tow Defender Recommendation for EZ5 Base Plate
    I spoke to my contact at Roadmaster and with an EZ5 base plate kit like the part # RM-523173-5 there is a Tow Defender option, part # RM-4750. The base plate kit part # RM-523173-5 is the correct base plate kit for your 2014 Chevy Sonic. In addition to the base plates, you will also need a compatible tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking to flat tow your vehicle. The most popular compatible tow bar is the Falcon 2, # RM-522 like what you have. For safety cables you...
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Base Plates And Flat-Towing Items For 2015 Chevy Sonic
    There are a few things you need when you are flat-towing your 2015 Sonic. You will need base plates, a tow bar, safety cables, lighting for your Sonic, a high-low adapter, and most states now require a supplemental brake system. The tow bar I recommend is the Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar, part # RM-520. The installation instructions are attached. I have attached a link to an installation video for this tow bar. Although it is a different vehicle, the installation would be similar for your...
    view full answer...
  • Roadmaster Base Plate Kit Recommendation for 2017 Chevy Sonic
    The Roadmaster EZ5 base plate kit part # RM-523173-5 is a confirmed fit for your 2016 Chevy Sonic and would work well with your Roadmaster tow bar. I attached an install video for this for you to check out as well. 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...
    view full answer...

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


Info for this part was:

Employee Andrew K
Video by:
Andrew K
Employee Lindsey S
Written by:
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Employee Jameson C
Expert Research:
Jameson C
Employee Jeffrey L
Expert Research:
Jeffrey L
Employee Joshua S
Video Edited:
Joshua S
Employee Sue W
Video Edited:
Sue W
Employee Shelly K
Updated by:
Shelly K
Employee Wilson B
Updated by:
Wilson B
Employee Mike S
Updated by:
Mike S
Employee Isabelle B
Updated by:
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Employee Amanda K
Updated by:
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