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Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
(3690 reviews)
Price: $575.00
In Stock
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Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
Part Number: RM-523196-5
In Stock
$575.00
Retail:$632.50
You Save: $57.50
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- All Info
- Reviews (3690)
- Q & A (0)
- Photos
Roadmaster Tow Bar Base Plate - RM-523196-5
Highlights
- Custom Fit for Your Vehicle: Mounts to existing attachment points
- Ready for Flat Towing: Direct-connect brackets create strong attachment points for RV tow bars.
- Blends In When Not Towing: Hidden brackets and removable arms keep the front end looking clean.
- Quick Hookup and Release: Twist-lock arms click securely in place and remove with built-in pull rings.
- Built to Last: Computer-cut, all-steel construction with black powder coat resists rust and wear.
- Simple, No-Weld Install: Mounts to the vehicle frame with included hardware and clear instructions.
Features to know about
Made for a Clean Front End: Hidden Brackets with Removable Arms
When you want a clean, factory-style front end, this setup keeps everything tucked away. The direct-connect brackets sit farther back than standard mounts and remove the need for a quick-disconnect crossbar. Once the drawbars are out, the remaining brackets are virtually invisible and protected within the grille area from bumps and scrapes.
Quick Hookups on the Road: Twist-Lock, Pull-Pin Connection
Getting ready to tow doesn’t have to be a hassle. Each arm slides into the bracket, clicks in place, and locks with a twist. To disconnect, just pull the built-in ring to unlock, twist again, and pull it free. It’s a secure system that makes hook-ups fast—whether you’re solo in the driveway or setting up at the campsite.
Strong Where It Counts: Computer-Cut, All-Steel Construction
This base plate is built from computer-cut steel for a precise fit and solid strength under load. The black powder coat finish helps resist rust and corrosion through years of use. By bolting directly to the frame, it distributes towing stress evenly without any welding required.
Ready for Long Drives: Reliable Pairing with Motor-Home-Mounted Tow Bars
Designed specifically for Roadmaster motor-home-mounted tow bars like the Nighthawk, Sterling, Blackhawk, Blackhawk 2, Falcon, and Falcon 2, this kit eliminates guesswork in matching components. When combined with compatible safety cables and wiring, it forms a dependable link that’s proven across thousands of towing miles.
DIY Friendly Setup: Bolt-On Install with Clear Instructions
You don’t need special equipment to install this kit—just basic tools and patience. The included instructions and mounting hardware guide you through attaching directly to the vehicle’s frame. With clear directions and no welding involved, it’s a straightforward weekend project that leaves you with a solid, ready-to-tow setup.
Specs
Features
- Direct-connect brackets: Provide attachment points for your motor-home-mounted tow bar
- Streamlined design: Creates supremely clean look
- No obtrusive quick-disconnect crossbar: Ensures a seamless appearance
- Hidden brackets: Sit even farther back than standard brackets
- 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
- 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
Note
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.
523196-5 Road Master EZ-5 Base Plate Kit
This Product Fits The Following Vehicles
- 2019 - 2020 Buick Envision
Ratings & Reviews
4.8
3690 reviews
by:
Jim
02/21/2021
This is a high quality plate. Fit our 2019 Buick Envision perfectly. Install is intermediate to advanced skill level. I took my time with this project because of level of complexity. It went well. Overall it took a week because of issues related to auxiliary brake system wiring and it was best to leave vehicle disassembled. The only part I didn’t care for was drilling the frame. A Christmas tree bit works best. Paint wears off the arms quickly, I’m not saying it’s a bad paint job but in this application black color matches vehicle best but paint on arms wears off. So far we have about 4000 miles of towing this vehicle no issues everything is working as advertised. We are very pleased with this product and etrailer team. Video and phone support is tremendous.
by:
Tim
06/18/2020
2020
Chevrolet
Equinox
Perfect for installing in my new Buick Envision. The kit went in exactly as was shown on the installation video and works perfectly. I installed the kit at the same time as the roadmaster baseplate so the wiring at the front was very easy! The coiled cord with the kit is high quality and should last me for quite a few years!
by:
John
04/13/2022
Only towed 2000 miles so far, then rear ended and pushed into front vehicle. Hope body shop left brackets in place!!!
Install was easy. thank you
Install was easy. thank you
by:
Randolph
03/21/2024
Installing is a chore, but once in place it's great. No issues or concerns. Very happy with it.
by:
Paul
03/05/2020
etrailer support is beyond helpful. they provide answers if you have any question about doing an installation. The printed help is very clear and easy to follow. You can also watch a video if you wish.
by:
Gerald
01/11/2022
Fit the car perfectly. Had some trouble with shipping but 1 call and everything was handled
by:
william
02/24/2025
Very solid. Installed neatly and works well.
by:
Frank
12/04/2024
2020
Buick
Envision
This is the second base plate kit I have purchased and installed on a 2020 Buick Envision. The first one, installed on a 2020 Buick Envision, had about 15,000 miles on it before the car was totaled. Installation was a breeze if you are somewhat handy with tools and can follow directions, you shouldn't have any trouble with the installation.
by:
Frank
04/28/2023
2019
Buick
Envision
Frank
4/29/2024
Baseplate makes it easy to flat tow. Glad this one was recommended.
by:
John
03/16/2023
Everything worked out great.
by:
Wayne
05/23/2025
by:
Dennis
08/01/2022
by:
Dave
04/03/2024
by:
John
06/16/2021
2020
Buick
Envision
by:
Gary
06/21/2024
by:
John
07/15/2026
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:
Jeff
02/11/2025
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.
2/12/2025
Install looks great, Jeff! Do you have any plans of where you are going to go this season yet?
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:
James
07/25/2026
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:
Mark
02/25/2026
Easy to install needed to replace some fasteners as they broke removing front grill was able to get them from Amazon cheap
Gwendolyn Y.
2/26/2026
Looks great, Mark! Where are you off to next?
by:
Crystal
03/28/2026
Awesome instructions! Install was fairly easy. Product is very high quality and solid construction. Thank you E Trailer!
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?
by:
Arthur
05/29/2026
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:
Larry
09/22/2026
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.
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....
by:
David
08/01/2025
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
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.
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:
Gary
06/18/2025
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.
6/19/2026
No issues at all. This is a solid piece of equipment.
Heather A.
6/19/2026
@GaryS Thank you for letting us know! What is your favorite adventure so far?
by:
Marc
04/12/2026
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.
Customer service was very helpful. Easy to install. No bumper or grill cutting however, you do loose your front hooks. Nice low profile.
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3690
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See what our Experts say about this Roadmaster Tow Bar Base Plate
- Recommended Flat Towing Set Up for a 2019 Buick Envision Hey Ralph. We have a large network of installers that I would be happy to get you connected to. If you go to the product page of the Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit item # RM-523196-5 you were looking at and scroll down below the pics on the left side you'll see a box that says, Locate installers near me. Go ahead and click on it and it will take you to a page where you'll be able to enter your zip code. Once you do this you'll be connected to our network of reputable installers...
view full answer... - Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2020 Buick EnvisionI can definitely help you out with a flat towing setup for your 2020 Buick Envision! You can definitely use the Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit # 523196-4 with the Adapter # RM-033 so that the base plate kit is compatible with a Blue Ox tow bar, but in all honesty it would be much easier to use the Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM-523196-5 with the Adapter Kit # BX88185 instead because you don't have a whole bar that you need to use as an adapter. I'm guessing that...
view full answer... - Is Roadmaster Falcon 5250 Tow Bar Compatible with Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit for 2020 EnvisionYes, the Falcon 5250 tow bar is compatible with the Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM-523196-5 for your 2020 Buick Envision. This particular tow bar has been discontinued for a while now so I would imagine that you'd need the Repair Kit # RM-910003-55 to make sure everything has been properly serviced on the tow bar and that it's safe to use. I would personally prefer to go with a brand new Falcon 2 Tow Bar # RM-520 simply because you are towing a brand new vehicle, but I...
view full answer... - Can 2020 Buick Envision be Flat Towed Behind MotorhomeI pulled up the owners manual of your 2020 Buick Envision and on page 297 it states the vehicle can be flat towed without excluding the FWD models. The first thing you'd need is a base plate kit like the part # RM-523196-5 which is a confirmed fit and would be very easy to use. 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 All Terain,...
view full answer... - Flat Towing A 2019 Buick EnvisionBefore flat towing any vehicle you should always check your owner's manual to ensure your vehicle can be flat (dinghy) towed. After looking through the manual for your 2019 Buick Envision it looks like your vehicle is approved for flat towing and you'll need to: 1. Position the vehicle to tow and then secure it to the towing vehicle. 2. Turn the ignition on, and shift the transmission to N (Neutral). 3. With the transmission in N (Neutral), turn the ignition off. 4. To prevent the battery...
view full answer... - Flat Tow 2019 Buick Envision Set UpYou asked about Blue Ox and Roadmaster complete systems but set ups to flat tow a vehicle are an a-la-carte situation where the user picks the pieces that they prefer based on features and value. In my recommendation below I have parts from several companies. Personally, where value is equal, I prefer to use one brand mainly. In this case, Roadmaster, as they carry many of the pieces we need and I can be assured that they will work together well. To flat tow your 2019 Buick Envision...
view full answer... - Parts Needed To Flat Tow 2020 Buick Envision Behind MotorcoachTo flat tow your 2020 Buick Envision behind your Tiffin motor coach you will a few parts starting with a vehicle specific base plate kit. For your Envision I would choose the Roadmaster # RM-523196-5 Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit which features simple twist and lock attachment, and it hidden very well when not being towed. Next add a tow bar. An excellent choice here is the Roadmaster # RM-522 All Terrain Non-Binding tow bar. A non-binding tow bar will let you easily disconnect your...
view full answer... - Parts Needed for Flat Towing a 2020 Buick EnvisionIn order to use the Roadmaster Falcon All Terrain # RM-522, you'll just need base plates that are compatible with both the tow bar and your vehicle; it looks like you were looking at the Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # RM-523196-5, which are compatible with the Falcon All-Terrain and fit on your 2020 Buick Envision. When it comes to the flat towing procedures for your vehicle, those will be outlined in the owner's manual and each vehicle has a different procedure;...
view full answer... - Roadmaster Rock Guards for Towed VehicleThe Roadmaster # RM-4000 "Guardian" rock guard you mentioned only works with a "crossbar" style base plate system. Same with the # RM-4700 "Tow Defender." (Also works with some other crossbar base plate systems by other companies.) However the Roadmaster Tow Defender # RM-4750 will work with "direct connect" style base plates systems such as the Roadmaster # RM-523196-5 that you have installed on your Buick.
view full answer... - How is Power Supplied to the Demco Stay-IN-Play DUOI'll start off by saying that aside from a supplemental braking system, there are a couple of other components you're going to need in order to flat tow your 2019 Buick Envision; flat towing requires base plates, a tow bar, tow bar wiring, safety cables and most likely a high/low adapter. You've made a good choice by choosing the Demco SBS Stay-IN-Play DUO # SM99251 as your supplemental braking system. This system is powered via a connection with the battery on your 2019 Buick Envision....
view full answer... - Does 2020 Buick Envision Need Brake Light Relay and Which is Easier Blue Ox or Roadmaster SetupDoes our Allegro have trailer wiring already present at the rear of the vehicle? Like with a 7-way connector? If so the circuits are already combined regardless of what you see on the vehicle taillights. If you plan to use a diode kit or bulb and socket tow bar lighting solution you will need a brake light relay like # RM-88400 when using the brake system you mentioned so that the brake lights won't override the blinkers. It's a toss up on which is easier to use between the Roadmaster...
view full answer... - Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2020 Buick EnvisionThat's correct, if you used the Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM-523196-5 with the Falcon 2 Tow Bar # RM-520 you wouldn't need the Blue Ox Adapter Brackets # BX88185 to tow your 2020 Buick Envision (and you wouldn't need to use the crossbar that comes with the tow bar). Just be sure you pick up a pair of safety cables like part # RM-643 as well. The Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR is a very popular choice for a portable braking system and would allow you to transfer the kit to future vehicles,...
view full answer...
Do you have a question about this Tow Bar Base Plate?
Info for this part was:
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Video Edited:
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Video by:
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Updated by:
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Updated by:
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Test Fit:
David F
Written by:
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Randolph
3/22/2025
Installed myself. Still works well. No complaints. Been used over 5000 miles.