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  1. Tow Bar Base Plate
  2. Roadmaster
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  4. Twist Lock Attachment
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Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
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Roadmaster

Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

Part Number: RM97RR
In Stock
$575.00
Retail:$632.50
You Save: $57.50
Tow Bar Base Plate

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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 RM97RR 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 - RM97RR

Highlights

  • Custom Fit for Your Vehicle: Mounts to existing attachment points
  • Ready for Flat Towing: Direct-connect brackets mount to the frame to create secure tow points.
  • Blends In When Not Towing: Hidden design keeps brackets virtually invisible once arms are removed.
  • Quick to Hook Up: Twist-lock removable arms click into place and detach in seconds for easy use.
  • Built to Last: Computer-cut, all-steel construction with black powder coat resists corrosion and wear.
  • Simple Installation: Bolts on with included hardware—no welding required for a precise custom fit.
Made in USA

Features to know about

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

If you want a setup that keeps your vehicle looking clean when you’re not towing, this kit does it right. The direct-connect brackets sit far back on the frame, leaving no bulky crossbar out front. Once the removable arms are pulled out, the remaining brackets are practically invisible behind the grille where they’re protected from scrapes and scuffs. It’s a low-profile look that stays out of sight until you’re ready to hook up.

Quick Hookups Every Time: Twist-Lock Arms with Built-In Pull Rings

Connecting your tow bar doesn’t need to be a fight. Each drawbar slides into the bracket, twists to lock, and clicks firmly in place. When it’s time to disconnect, just tug the built-in pull ring, twist, and pull it free. The simple twist-lock setup makes it quick and easy to line up and secure—even if you’re doing it by yourself.

Solid Build You Can Count On: Computer-Cut Steel Construction

This kit bolts right to the frame, spreading the towing load evenly for a strong and stable connection. The all-steel construction is computer-cut for precision and finished in a black powder coat that resists corrosion mile after mile. It’s designed to handle long trips without flex or fatigue so you can tow with confidence.

No Welding or Guesswork: Custom Fit and Complete Hardware

Everything about this kit is made to fit right out of the box. There’s no welding required—just bolt it on using the included hardware and follow the clear instructions. The custom brackets line up with existing mounting points for a straightforward install that’s doable in a weekend with basic tools.

Built for Roadmaster Tow Bars: Direct Compatibility with Motor-Home-Mounted Models

This base plate is designed specifically for Roadmaster motor-home-mounted tow bars that slide directly into a trailer hitch—like the Nighthawk, Sterling, Blackhawk, Blackhawk 2, Falcon, or Falcon 2. Each kit includes the mounting hardware and instructions you need for a clean setup that pairs perfectly with your existing Roadmaster gear.

Specs

Compatibility

  • Compatible with: Roadmaster motor-home-mounted tow bars only
  • Will not work with: Tow bars that require a hitch ball
  • Example compatible tow bars: Nighthawk, Sterling, Blackhawk, Blackhawk 2, Falcon, or Falcon 2

Construction and Design

  • Bracket type: Direct-connect brackets provide attachment points for motor-home-mounted tow bar
  • Design features: Streamlined design creates supremely clean look; hidden brackets sit farther back than standard brackets
  • Arms: Removable draw bars with twist lock attachment — click to lock in place and are released via built-in pull rings
  • Material: Computer-cut, all-steel construction provides exceptional strength
  • Finish: Black powder coat finish is durable and corrosion resistant
  • Mounting style: Installs on vehicle frame; no welding required
  • Fitment: Custom base plates ensure a perfect fit for the vehicle
  • Visibility: Brackets are virtually invisible once arms are removed; typically mounted within grille for protection
  • Origin: Made in the USA
  • Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty

Included Components

  • Included items: Instructions and mounting hardware

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.

524470-5 Road Master EZ-5 Base Plate Kit

Installation Details RM97RR Installation instructions

This Product Fits The Following Vehicles




Customer Satisfaction Score:

Ratings & Reviews

4.8

3593 reviews
5 Stars
(3133)
4 Stars
(310)
3 Stars
(62)
2 Stars
(30)
1 Star
(58)
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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.

by:

Looks great
Will install this week



by:

Came very quick and I can't wait to put it on.



by:

Product was shipped 4 days before the estimated delivery date! I believe that is from hard work and dedication from the workers at etrailer. Good Job!!



by:

Attached relatively easily. Tows the Maverick just fine. It isn't too obvious on the truck and minimal cutting to make it work.



by:

Best one on the Ford Maverick. Professional install eecommended



by:

Absolutely great fit to my Ford Maverick. Everything is hidden and not in the way from walking by the front of the truck. Instructions were adequate, found a YouTube that helped, yet I found there could be a little improvement in the instructions.



by:

Purchased a tow bar base plate - great price and very fast shipping. Good job!



by:

Looks well build and fits perfectly with the Maverick looks. Instructions were very good but it took longer than expected to install due to very tight clearance of some bolts (thus the 4 stars instead of the 5). I have yet to use it on the road, but very satisfied so far.



by:

Well constructed. Works great looks really good on the Maverick.

Bill profile picture

Bill

3/12/2024

Flawlessly. Great product perfect fit.



by:

Very well built, heavy duty

Chris profile picture

Chris

12/2/2023

Great very well built



by:

I chose the Roadmaster Base plate purely for cosmetic reasons. The Blue Ox install looks terrible on the Maverick. Sure, with the Roadmaster I have to trim part of the radiator louver, but being in the South, I don't see it being a problem. Fortunately, I have all the parts to go Blue Ox towbar to Roadmaster towbar. Looks like it will work perfectly!



by:

Overall the base plate fit on the Maverick well and the on-line video explaining the installation was very helpful. However, the base plate packaging was sub standard and the base plate was marred and need paint touch up.

Jenny N. profile picture

Jenny N.

3/2/2023

You definitely can use a rust resistant paint like Rustoleum to touch up the base plate. It is unfortunate that it arrived this way. I will have our Customer Service team contact you.

D. L. profile picture

D. L.

3/3/2024

Flat towing the Maverick is a breeze with the Roadmaster Faceplate. No issues towing and very happy with it.

Jerred H. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Jerred H.

3/3/2024

@DL Thanks for letting us know! Glad you're able to use it so easily.


by:

Love my knew tow package All Road master base plate falcon Tow bar & Invisibrake system



by:

Good towbar, no problems encountered



by:

Installed on our Ford Maverick and love it!



by:

Installed as expected on my Ford Maverick pickup. Has been in place for one year and 8000 miles without any issues.



by:

I'm thrilled with the roadmaster base plate on my equinox & I'm sure I'll be thrilled with this one. Makes hooking up & unhooking a breeze.

Brooke M. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Brooke M.

12/6/2024

It a very popular base plate for a reason - youre for sure gonna love it!



by:

Fits well. One of the Bolts broke however. Not sure if user error or defect. 2024 Ford Lariat Maverick



by:

After reviewing your great install videos several times I decided to install myself. Fairly easy if you take your time and follow the instructions although I had to trim a bit more than I thought based on the video. Having the right tools like a multifunction trimmer helped. I really like the look compared to the Blue Ox baseplate option even though I have a Blue Ox towbar. I bought the RM - Blue Ox adapter pins and all works well. We are on a 7000 mile 4 month trip and no issues so far.

Chuckc profile picture

Chuckc

10/6/2024

Just completed a 13300 mile trip to Alaska and back over some rough roads and no problem towing behind our motorhome. I am using a blue ox ascent towbar with roadmaster to blue ox adapter pins.



by:

Works well so far, I’ve towed my Maverick truck about 3,000 miles with no problems. Easy hookup and unhook. Blends in with the front of the truck fairly well. Installed myself with one assistant. Hardest part was removing shell assembly but not as bad as I thought once I got started. The only reason I gave 4 stars instead of 5 is because when bolting the unit to the sub frame of the truck there was about a 1/4” gap between the base plate and the truck frame on each side. The instructions indicated that would be a tight fit and probably needed to be hammered into place.I ended up using the mounting bolts to bend the mounting tabs into the frame and finally got the correct torque on the bolts. That’s always made me a little nervous but it seems to be working. If it was easier to tear the front of the truck apart and double check the mounting points and torque I would.



by:

The install on my Ford Maverick is clean and functional, so this is more of a customer service review... excellent customer service!

During the 4-day towing set-up install, the forecast was for freezing temps and my rig was not winterized. I called in mid panic and the motorhome was moved indoors.

A few months after using the tow set-up, a minor problem developed. I called and the CSR apologized and said, I can see how that might be frustrating, and a replacement cable (slightly longer) was sent free of charge.



by:

After having multiple cars get tow plates installed, we switched brands. So much better than Blue Ox, we love the Roadmaster set up! It was more expensive for the whole overall set up with the tow bar, but 100% worth it!



by:

This unit fit my Maverick perfectly and performs perfectly. Thanks for the great quality and fit.

Charles profile picture

Charles

2/13/2026

Works great couldnt be happier.

Lazer S. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Lazer S.

2/13/2026

@Charles Nice! Glad you are still happy with it! What has been your favorite trip so far?


by:

The only problem with the install was getting enough slack wire onthe pedestrian alert sensor/box. I had to really pull to get it recounted. A friend of mine had the same problem. RM should include a short extension harness. Other than that the install was easy and it works well.



by:

The installation isn’t for the faint of heart, there is a lot of disassembly and some cutting of plastic louvers, but got it done. The aesthetic's look great, and I’ve towed the vehicle several thousand miles without any issues. Remember to order the tube plugs, keeps rocks from getting jammed inside.


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

  • Blue Ox or Roadmaster Parts to Flat Tow 2023 Ford Maverick
    I prefer the Blue Ox flat towing setups over the Roadmaster kits as I have found them to be just a little easier to use and they are very well made. I wouldn't worry to much about the bumper cuts and it doesn't affect the shudder system like you mentioned either. So for your 2023 Ford Maverick I would go with the base plate kit part # BLU86HR. 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....
    view full answer...
  • Recommended complete Flat Towing Setup for a 2024 Ford Maverick Hybrid
    Bruce, I'd recommend going with the Roadmaster Direct Connect Base Plate Kit # RM97RR. This base plate is custom fit to your Maverick, is made in the USA, and includes all the hardware and instructions for install. If you're interested in a complete flat towing setup you're also going to need a set of tow bars # RM-676, a braking system # RM-9060-900002, a charge line kit # RM-88400, a wiring harness # RM-15267, and a charge line kit # RM-156-25.
    view full answer...
  • Differences Between the Demco & Roadmaster Base Plate Kit for a 2024 Ford Maverick
    The main difference between the Demco Tabless Base Plate Kit # DM77YV and the Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM97RR is just going to be the brand really. They're both very similar in the way they install, with Roadmaster being a bit more challenging requiring some trimming on certain models, they both have a removable drawbar, and they both use a direct connect style attachment. If it were me I'd go Roadmaster just for the fact that they've been consistently a household...
    view full answer...
  • Items Needed to Flat Tow 2022 Ford Maverick
    The Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit, # RM97RR is the Roadmaster part number of 524470-5. From conversation with our contact at Roadmaster, the (524470-5) will fit all models of the Ford Maverick with 2.5 hybrid motor, no interference with adaptive cruise control. There are 5 basic components needed to flat tow any vehicle, the Base Plate Kit, Tow-Bar, Safety Cable, Wiring Solution and Supplemental Braking. Some vehicle set-ups require additional parts to supplement the basic...
    view full answer...
  • Do Shutters of Ford Maverick Get Removed to Install Roadmaster Base Plate Kit
    Hey Rick, I went through the install instructions of the Roadmaster Direct Connect base plate kit part # RM97RR and you actually trim out a whole in the shutters and reinstall them. They are not totally removed. Do you have a tow bar already?
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Base Plate for 2024 Ford Maverick With a Blue Ox Base Plate That's Too Wide
    Okay Bob, so I did a bit of digging around and apparently this is a known issue that Blue Ox is aware of. The 41" distance between the mounting points is too wide and non-standard which is why your tow bars are being stretched too far. Unfortunately there is no solution from Blue Ox which is a bit disappointing but with that said you'd be better off getting rid of those base plates and use something else instead. That much stress on your tow bar/base plates is going to only end up bad...
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2024 Ford Maverick Hybrid
    Hi Pat; I can definitely help you get the parts you need to flat tow your 2024 Ford Maverick Hybrid. You will need a base plate kit, tow bar, safety cables, tow bar wiring, and a supplemental brake system. I recommend the following: -Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM97RR -Roadmaster Falcon 3HD Tow Bar # RM27NQ -Roadmaster 80" Hybrid Coiled-to-Straight Safety Cables # RM-674 -Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit # RM-15267 -Roadmaster Battery Charge Line...
    view full answer...
  • Full Flat Towing Set Up For A 2024 Ford Maverick Hybrid
    Hi Peter! I have a full Roadmaster flat towing set up listed below for your 2024 Ford Maverick Hybrid, as well as the Demco braking system. Good call going with these brands as well. All the parts I have listed are American made! Oh, before you check out said parts, I do want to mention that I included a tow bar and safety cables. If you already have them, you can skip those parts. Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # RM97RR Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar - RV Mount...
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Flat Towing Setup for a 2023 Ford Maverick
    Thanks for all the information Charles! To flat tow your 2023 Ford Maverick, I recommend the following parts: Tow Bar, Safety Chains, and 7-Way to 6-Way Cable - Roadmaster Nighthawk All-Terrain Tow Bar item # RM-676 Base Plate Kit - Roadmaster Direct Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms item # RM97RR Protective Screen - Roadmaster Tow Defender Protective Screen for Towed Vehicles item # RM-4750 Wiring and Diodes - Roadmaster Universal Hy-Power Diode Wiring Kit item # RM-152. Everything...
    view full answer...
  • What All Do I Need To Flat Tow A 2023 Ford Maverick?
    Congrats on the new car. I can definitely help set you up with everything you need. Lets start with the base plate and work our way from there. For the 2023 Maverick I recommend using the Roadmaster direct connect # RM97RR. Roadmaster make a great quality base plate, and the twist lock removable arms are a nice feature. That way you do not have metal pieces protruding from the front of the car when not in use. This base plate also has pre welded safety chain hooks, and a mounting location...
    view full answer...
  • Wiring for Flat Towing 2023 Ford Maverick
    Hey Brad! You can use the Demco # DM66VR on your 2023 Ford Maverick. However, I recommend the Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles # RM-156-25 instead. This comes with an auto reset breaker so you don't have to worry about replacing a fuse if the fuse blows. For wiring you can use the Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles # RM-15267. This comes with the connector along with the adapter cord to connect to your motorhome. Do you already have a base...
    view full answer...
  • Does Roadmaster Base Plate Kit # RM97RR Fit 2025 Ford Maverick
    Hey Denny, we have the Roadmaster base plate kit part # RM97RR that you referenced carried over as a fit for the 2025 Ford Maverick models like what you have. Did you see something about it not fitting?
    view full answer...
  • Demco vs. etrailer Base Plate For 2024 Ford Maverick
    You have a good eye Richard, as there is not a difference between the etrailer and Demco base plates that fit your 2024 Ford Maverick: - etrailer Invisible Base Plate Kit e64FV (discontinued) - Demco Tabless Base Plate Kit # DM77YV Both will fit your '24 Maverick and work exactly the same way so there honestly is not a difference. You will also need other components to flat tow your Maverick which I'll go ahead and list out for you, and keep in mind the tow bar will work with either...
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Flat Tow Setup For A 2024 Ford Maverick Hybrid
    Hello Robert. For flat towing your new 2024 Ford maverick Hybrid I recommend the Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM97RR. Most of the Maverick base plates will install fairly similarly, and you will be fully removing the front bumper for installation. I like the Roadmaster base plates for a few reasons. The custom fitted brackets make installation straightforward, the twist lock arms are convenient and easy to use, and the base plate has pre-welded attachments for your electrical...
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2025 Ford Maverick Hybrid
    Hey Bob, so the first thing you'll want is a Roadmaster base plate kit confirmed as a fit for your 2025 Ford Maverick Hybrid with the part # RM97RR. The Demco Air Force One part # SM99243 that you referenced is also a fit and would work great as well. Since your vehicle doesn't have vacuum assist brakes and instead are electronic assist brakes you'll need to plug the input vacuum port and leave the exhaust port open. For lighting then you'd need the Smart Diode kit part # RM38FR and...
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Flat Towing Parts for a 2023 Ford Maverick Hybrid
    I checked with Roadmaster to confirm but yes, you can use the Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles item # RM-156-25 on your Hybrid 2023 Ford Maverick. Some other parts you will need to flat tow your Maverick are listed below. Please feel free to email me directly with any additional questions. Tow Bar and Safety Chains - Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar item # RM-520 and item # RM-643 Base Plate Kit - Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms item # RM97RR Wiring...
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Flat Towing Parts for a 2024 Ford Maverick Hybrid w/ Electric Brake Assist
    Hey Les! There's a note in red in the vacuum connection section of installation instructions on the Demco Stay-IN-Play DUO item # DM86VR that addresses your concerns. It states the following: "If you have an electric brake assist and your vehicle requires the battery to be disconnected, leave the vacuum line and check valve open to atmosphere. If you have electric brake assist and the battery remains connected, remove the check valve, and turn it around or block off the vacuum check valve." You'll...
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Flat Towing Set Up for a AWD 2.5L 2025 Ford Maverick
    Hey Steve congrats on the new truck! To flat tow your AWD 2.5L 2025 Ford Maverick you will need the following parts: Tow Bar and Safety Chains - etrailer SD Non-Binding Tow Bar for Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plates item # e74ZR Base Plate Kit - Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms item # RM97RR Wiring Harness - Roadmaster Smart Diode Kit for Variable Voltage LED Tail Lights item # RM38FR Charge Line - Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles item...
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Flat Towing Setup for a 2024 Ford Maverick Hybrid
    Hey Frank. If you can access your hitch then the stairs are not going to interfere with the tow bar. I would have extremely low expectations on lowering them though with your tow bar connected. I've never seen an in bed camper that didn't have the stairs directly in the middle over the hitch. What is the distance between the hitch pin hole of your F-350's hitch and the back end of your camper and what size hitch receiver do you have? You can add this information and any other questions...
    view full answer...
  • Cover that Fits Roadmaster Direct Connect Base Plate When Arms are Removed
    Hey Tom, for the Roadmaster Direct Connect base plate kits we have the covers part # RM-210 as a confirmed fit.
    view full answer...
  • Adapter Needed To Convert Roadmaster Blackhawk All Terrain Tow Bar From Blue Ox To Roadmaster
    Yes, you can swap out the Blue Ox compatible Clevis's on your Roadmaster Blackhawk 2 All Terrain Tow Bar with the Replacement Swivel Collar for Roadmaster Tow Bars # RM-9200-6 when you want to tow your vehicle with the Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM97RR installed on it.
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Flat Towing Components For A 2024 Ford Maverick
    Hey John, Your 2024 Ford Maverick will need to be a hybrid in order to be flat towed and there will be very specific instructions to follow in your owner's manual to get it ready to flat tow. If it is then you'll need the following components: Baseplate: Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM97RR. Tow Bar: etrailer SD Non-Binding Tow Bar # e74ZR. This comes with safety cables included and has a built-in rise/drop to help keep it level between the tow vehicle and motorhome. Tow...
    view full answer...
  • How Long Does It Take To Install Base Plate On 2024 Ford Maverick?
    Hello Jeremy, thanks for reaching out. For a first time installer, I imagine installing the # RM97RR base plate on a 2024 Ford Maverick would take about 5-6 hours or half a day. For an experienced installer who has done similar work, it should only take about 2 or 3 hours. If you are planning on installing yourself, take a look at the install video I linked below. It will give you a really good idea of what you will be in for. If you plan on having in professionally installed, I have...
    view full answer...
  • Are Air Dam Louvers Removed for Roadmaster Base Plate Installation on a 2024 Ford Maverick
    Hey Bruce, thanks for reaching out! The Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Ki # RM97RR does require excessive trimming of the air dam system so you won't be able to install the louvers back onto your 2024 Ford Maverick. If you really like that feature then you'll want to go with the Demco Tabless Base Plate Kit # DM77YV instead. They designed their kit to sit out a little further so you won't be doing nearly as much trimming for the Demco install.
    view full answer...


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