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Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
Part Number: RM-524441-5
In Stock
$670.00
Retail:$742.50
You Save: $72.50
2021 Audi S6
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- Reviews (3690)
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Roadmaster Tow Bar Base Plate - RM-524441-5
Highlights
- Custom Fit for Your Vehicle: Mounts to existing attachment points
- Ready for Flat Towing: Creates secure attachment points for your motor-home-mounted tow bar.
- Blends In When Not Towing: Hidden brackets sit within the grille for a clean, factory-style look.
- Quick Hookups: Twist-lock removable arms click into place and detach in seconds without tools.
- Built to Last: Computer-cut, all-steel construction with black powder coat resists corrosion.
- Simple to Install: Mounts to the vehicle frame with included hardware—no welding required.
Features to know about
Made for a Clean Front End: Hidden Direct-Connect Design
If you like a clean, factory look when you’re not towing, this setup keeps it that way. The streamlined brackets sit farther back than standard designs and stay virtually invisible once the removable drawbars are out. There’s no bulky quick-disconnect crossbar, so the front end stays uncluttered and protected from scrapes or scuffs.
Hook Up Fast, Even When You’re Solo: Twist-Lock Removable Arms
The drawbars click and lock into place with a simple twist, and built-in pull rings let you unlock and remove them just as easily. It’s quick, straightforward, and easy to handle by yourself—no special tools or fuss required. When the arms are off, the brackets are barely noticeable, making it effortless to switch between towing and everyday driving.
Strong Where It Counts: All-Steel, Computer-Cut Construction
This base plate bolts directly to the frame and doesn’t need any welding. The all-steel build is computer-cut for precise fitment and dependable strength on long hauls. A black powder coat finish adds durability and corrosion resistance so it stays solid through miles of travel.
Simple to Install: Custom Fit with Included Hardware
Everything lines up for a clean bolt-on install with no welding required. The kit comes with clear instructions and mounting hardware to make setup straightforward for anyone comfortable with tools. Once installed, it’s ready to pair with Roadmaster motor-home-mounted tow bars like the Nighthawk, Sterling, Blackhawk, Blackhawk 2, Falcon, or Falcon 2.
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: Provides unobstructed 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
- Instructions and mounting hardware: Included
- Origin: 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.
524441-5 Road Master EZ-5 Base Plate Kit
This Product Fits The Following Vehicles
- 2014 - 2019 Ford Fiesta non-ST models - with EcoBoost
- 2014 - 2019 Ford Fiesta ST models
Ratings & Reviews
4.8
3690 reviews
by:
Charlie
07/05/2023
I love the solid nature and how it is very unobtrusive when the car is not being towed. Very easy to attach the tow points. Installation instructions were very clear and detailed. Have used it many times in the last year with no issues.
by:
Frank
06/05/2025
2017
Ford
Fiesta
by:
James
11/16/2021
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.
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.
by:
Paul
10/23/2026
I just followed your video of the installation and it was on point !
by:
Michael
09/25/2025
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:
Joe
05/19/2026
It’s a super strong and wonderfully engineered addition to my new Maverick pickup.. Couldn’t be happier with it!!!!! Well done!!!!
by:
John
10/09/2026
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:
TC
10/10/2026
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:
Tim
10/26/2026
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:
Steve B.
09/03/2025
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:
Conrad
10/14/2026
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:
Bob
04/17/2025
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.
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.
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:
Joe
06/01/2025
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!
Now I have to figure out the easiest way to run the wiring for the lights.
Thanks Lauren A for your help!
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!
Helpful Links
tv-install-roadmaster-diode-kit-2007-honda-crv-rm-15267.aspx
tv-install-roadmaster-tail-light-wiring-kit-2010-honda-crv-rm-155.aspx
by:
Roy
03/22/2026
It takes a while. Better if you have a car lift ( we have a lift )
by:
Alfredo
06/03/2025
Excellent base plate, just as my wife requested, she didn’t want too much metal visible in front of the bumper. Installation instructions were a bit confusing for me, but I’ll clarify, for me.
Brooke M.
6/9/2025
Glad to hear that, Alfredo! Happy to hear that your wife likes it, too. Way to go on pressing on and getting the install done! Would you have any advice or tips for anyone else looking to do the same install on their '25 Jeep Gladiator?
25
3690
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See what our Experts say about this Roadmaster Tow Bar Base Plate
- Can a 2018 Ford Fiesta be Flat Towed by a Ford F-150You definitely can use a pickup to tow your 2018 Ford Fiesta as long as the Fiesta doesn't exceed the weight ratings of the pickup or the trailer hitch. I am not sure what year Ford F-150 you are wanting to use but if you look in your owner's manual it will tell you the max weight rating for your pickup. A 2018 Fiesta should weigh somewhere between 2,500 lbs - 2,800 lbs though so your F-150 should have an easy time towing it. The Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM-524441-5 does...
view full answer... - Recommended Flat Towing Equipment For A 2016 Ford Fiesta Automatic TransmissionYour 2016 Ford Fiesta Automatic Transmission is capable of being flat towed but you will need to follow the steps listed in the manual in your owner's manual. One of those steps includes disconnecting the negative battery cable from your battery. To make this as easy as flipping a switch you can install the Roadmaster Automatic Battery Disconnect with Switch for Towed Vehicle w/ Supplemental Braking System # RM-766. To flat tow your Fiesta you'll need a tow bar, base plate, tow bar wiring...
view full answer... - Installation Instructions for Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM-524441-5I have linked the installation instructions to this answer page (towards the bottom) of the Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM-524441-5 for you to check out. I have also attached a photo from the instructions that show what the base plate kit looks like after it is installed. For a complete flat towing setup you will need a base plate kit, tow bar, safety cables, vehicle tow bar wiring, a supplemental braking system, and possibly a high-low adapter. If you do not have all of...
view full answer...
- Recommended Parts For Flat Towing A 2017 Ford Fiesta With Automatic TransmissionYour 2017 Ford Fiesta can definitely be flat towed with the automatic transmission. There are two options still for base plates depending on how your Fiesta is equipped, but I have both options listed below. Non ST Model Without EcoBoost: Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM-524438-5 Non ST Model With EcoBoost or ST Model: Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM-524441-5 From here, the Roadmaster Falcon All Terrain Tow Bar # RM-522 is a great choice and the Roadmaster 64"...
view full answer... - Recommended Flat Towing Components For A 2014 Ford Fiesta Hatchback SE To flat tow your 2014 Ford Fiesta Hatchback SE I have the following component recommendations: Baseplate: Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM-524441-5. This baseplate is designed to fit EcoBoost models, if you have a non-EcoBoost model then you'll part # RM-524438-5 Tow Bar: etrailer SD Non-Binding Tow Bar # e74ZR. This tow bar has safety cables bracketed to the arms so that you won't have to purchase them separately or worry about them dragging on the ground and being damaged....
view full answer... - Recommended Parts to Flat Tow a 2019 Ford Fiesta ST-Line w/a Automatic TransmissionHey Martin. Here's a list of parts that are a mix of what you referenced and what I recommend using to flat tow your 2019 Ford Fiesta ST-Line: Tow Bar and Safety Cables - Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar item # RM-520 and item # RM-643 Base Plate Kit - Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - item # RM-524441-5 Protective Screen - Roadmaster Tow Defender Protective Screen for Towed Vehicles item # RM-4750 Wiring Harness - Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit item # RM-15267 Battery...
view full answer... - Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2016 Ford FiestaThe first thing you need to flat tow your 2016 Ford Fiesta is a base plate kit like the Roadmaster Direct Connect kit part # RM-524441-5. 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, # RM-522. This has non-binding arms which makes the setup very easy to connect/disconnect. For lighting/safety cables, locks, and covers for...
view full answer... - Flat Towing Components for 2017 Ford Fiesta Manual Transmission Thanks for reaching out Kelly. I'd be happy to help you get your 2017 Ford Fiesta set up for flat towing. Overall, you've put together a great parts list, but there are a couple of items you can eliminate. For example, your Fiesta does not require the battery to be disconnected while flat towing, so you won't need the Roadmaster Battery Disconnect # RM-766. Also, since you're planning to use the Roadmaster Nighthawk All-Terrain Tow Bar # RM-676, you won't need the complete Roadmaster...
view full answer... - Recommended Flat Towing Base Plate for Manual Transmission 2017 Ford FiestaThe base plate I'd recommend depends on how the car's equpped. If it's a 1.0 or 1.6 Turbo ST, SFE or EcoBoost, then I'd go with the # 524441-5. For everything else except the ST, EcoBoost and models with the SFE package, use # 524438-5. You'll also need a tow bar, safety cables, a wiring solution, a supplemental braking system and possibly a high/Low adapter. If you'd like some specific recommendations about the other equipment, let me know and I'd be glad to help.
view full answer...
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Gwendolyn Y.
2/12/2025
Install looks great, Jeff! Do you have any plans of where you are going to go this season yet?