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  1. Tow Bar Base Plate
  2. Roadmaster
  3. Removable Draw Bars
  4. Hitch Pin Attachment
  5. Partially Hidden
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1981 Dodge Ram Pickup
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Roadmaster

Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

Part Number: 118-15
2218 Reviews | 15 Questions
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$575.00
Retail:$632.50
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 Tow Bar Base Plate
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1981 Dodge Ram Pickup

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Product Images

roadmaster tow bar base plate partially hidden crossbar-style kit - removable arms
roadmaster tow bar base plate removable draw bars partially hidden crossbar-style kit - arms
roadmaster tow bar base plate hitch pin attachment partially hidden 118-15
roadmaster tow bar base plate hitch pin attachment partially hidden 118-15
roadmaster tow bar base plate removable draw bars crossbar-style kit - arms

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The crossbar-style hidden brackets attach to your vehicle's frame to provide attachment points for your tow bar. The visible portions of the brackets can be removed when you are not towing. Great Prices for the best tow bar base plate from Roadmaster. Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms part number 118-15 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 - 118-15

Highlights

  • Custom Fit for Your Vehicle: Mounts to existing attachment points
  • Ready for Flat Towing: Creates strong connection points so you can securely tow your vehicle behind an RV.
  • Blends In When Not Towing: Removable drawbars leave brackets nearly invisible for a clean look.
  • Built to Last: All-steel, computer-cut construction with black powder coat resists corrosion and wear.
  • Simple to Use: Drawbars attach and remove easily with two hitch pins for quick setup before travel.
  • Straightforward Install: Bolts to the frame with included hardware—no welding required.
Made in USA

Features to know about

Built for a Clean Front End: Hidden Brackets with Removable Drawbars

When you’re not towing, the base plate practically disappears. The crossbar-style hidden brackets attach directly to the frame, and the square drawbars come off with two hitch pins. Once the arms are out, the brackets stay tucked within the grille, protected from scrapes and out of sight for a clean, factory look.

Reliable Strength for the Long Haul: All-Steel, Computer-Cut Construction

This kit is built from computer-cut, all-steel components that give it precise fit and exceptional strength. The black powder coat finish resists corrosion and keeps the hardware looking good after years of use. It’s a solid setup that spreads load evenly across the frame so you can trust it mile after mile.

Straightforward Setup at Home: No Welding Required

Installing this base plate is a simple bolt-on process—no welding needed. The kit comes with clear instructions and all mounting hardware, so you can handle it confidently in your own garage. A quick-disconnect crossbar (#910021-00, sold separately) makes it easy to pair up with compatible Roadmaster tow bars and get everything aligned fast.

Keep Your Tow System Working Together: Compatible with Roadmaster Tow Bars

If you’re already running a Roadmaster setup, this kit connects right up using the quick-disconnect crossbar (910021-00, sold separately). The hitch pin attachment makes hooking up straightforward and secure every time. It’s designed to integrate smoothly with your existing towing gear so you can stay focused on the trip ahead.

Specs

Construction and Design

  • Bracket Style: Crossbar-style hidden brackets
  • Material: All-steel construction
  • Finish: Black powder coat finish (durable and corrosion resistant)
  • Bracket Design: Hidden bracket design - drawbars are easily removable via 2 pins
  • Appearance: Improved aesthetics compared with standard brackets
  • Mounting Position: Brackets mount within the grille on most automobiles
  • Removable Components: Visible portions of the brackets (drawbars) can be removed when not towing
  • Attachment Type: Hitch pin attachment
  • Visibility When Not in Use: Remaining brackets are virtually invisible when drawbars are removed
  • Mounting Hardware: Instructions and mounting hardware included
  • Manufacturing Method: Computer-cut for precision fit
  • Fitment Type: Custom base plates ensure a perfect fit for your vehicle

Compatibility

  • Tow Bar Compatibility: Compatible with Roadmaster tow bars with use of quick-disconnect crossbar (910021-00 - sold separately)
  • Vehicle Application: 1996-1998 Geo Tracker (no brush guard) or 2-door Suzuki Sidekick

Installation

  • Installation Method: Simple installation - no welding required
  • Bumper Mounting: Typically installs through the bumper

Origin and Warranty

  • Country of Manufacture: Made in the USA
  • Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty

118-15 Road Master XL Base Plate Kit

Installation Details 118-15 Installation instructions

This Product Fits The Following Vehicles






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Ratings & Reviews

4.8

2218 reviews
5 Stars
(1870)
4 Stars
(262)
3 Stars
(48)
2 Stars
(13)
1 Star
(25)
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by:
1997 Suzuki Sidekick
Works for my 1997 Suzuki Sidekick. Had to drill 4 holes in frame but otherwise easy to install.
by:
1997 Geo Tracker
Would be 5 stars if directions included pictures. The directions also don't mention that if you have a factotow hook on your driver's side frame, that it needs to be cut off to install this.
by:
2005 Ford Edge
I bought the 118-15 XL bracket kit to install on a new-to-me 1997 Geo Tracker. I previously owned and towed a 2005 Jeep Liberty so I had the Roadmaster Stowmaster tow bar and associated equipment. Of course the mounting brackets are model specific so the ones on the Jeep would not fit the Tracker. This installation went well and the parts fit the frame as expected. I took both front wheels off in order to access the area and loosened the lower part of the bumper. You need some fairly long drill bits to drill the 1/2" holes in the frame but I was able to do it with what I had on hand. Also, there is a manufacturing boss inside the frame that gets in the way of sliding the inner holding plate easily. If you tilt it slightly to raise the outside edge it clears the boss and lines up with the drilled hole. This bracket kit is well designed and when the actual mounts are not installed the front of the Tracker looks stock. I have not towed the Tracker yet but I expect the system to work well.
by:
Great value, great fit, very easy and simple installation. Although I wish there were 2 choices for size of receiver. I had to buy an adapter for 2” receiver and it protrudes farther than I’d like. Great company and free shipping
by:
I received great service from e trailer they did every thing too make sure I was ordering the parts that I needed I have not installed them yet but they look like they will fit
by:
1997 Geo Tracker
Don't believe the 3 hour install time, took me close to 5 hours but once it was installed it looked great!! It would help if there was a picture from underneath of the product already mounted on the car. But for this old do it your selfer I am very satisfied with the quality and the appearance of this product!
by:
by:
1996 Geo Tracker
WORKED PERFECT
by:
by:
Installation was a bit trying. Ended up looking very clean and almost invisible.
Using the tow bar worked super easy and our motorhome hardly noticed the Mini Cooper back there.
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Claire H. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Claire H.

7/6/2026

It really is invisible! It took me a second to even find the base plates in your photo!

by:
1995 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Bolted right up. Installation should be done with bumper on, as you can't fit the ends through the louvers without some convincing. Works great so far. Was able to use a Stowmaster 5000 with it.
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Kate F. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Kate F.

5/14/2026

Thanks for the review and for sharing your installation experience Christian. Your tip about leaving the bumper on during install is really helpful, especially since fitting the ends through the louvers can take a little extra maneuvering. It’s also great to hear the setup works well with your Stowmaster 5000. The install looks great, and we appreciate you sharing the picture! Where did you go for the first trip?

Christian profile picture

Christian

5/20/2026

@KateF Hudson Parcher County park in Rainier, OR
Kate F. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Kate F.

5/21/2026

@Christian I just looked it up, looks like quite the magical place! Thanks for sharing =)
by:
Came quickly and is very high quality. Great directions/video from road master makes the installation step by step easy to follow.
Skill level is probably at the intermediate level depending on experience.
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Robert profile picture

Robert

1/7/2026

Everything related to my Mini towing system is working great after a year of use.i do wish I had bought a cover for the tow bar though. Keeping it clean would be easier with the cover. Great products and service from etrailet

by:
The #118-3 is a perfect fit on my 1995 Geo Tracker. When you pull off the removable arms you would never know they are there. The Quality is very good easy to put on all you have to do is drill 4 holes the tube on the base plate fits into the tube on the frame of the tracker and with the 2 bolts it is a solid fit. I was worried about the plate nut getting it inside of the frame but it went in easy when you put it over the frame tube and use a thin piece of metal to slide it in place. I’m very happy with it. I probably could of got it on without taking my bumper off but with only 4 bolts holding my bumper on it made it easier
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Robin profile picture

Robin

11/25/2025

Working great these are durable tow bars Have no problems with them easy to hook up and tows vehicle without no problems .

by:
2007 honda Element
Awesome delivery speed, and a well made base plate for my 2007 Element. Installation was a breeze (thanks to my son’s heated shop) and I had to do no cutting to make this fit. I had a Stowmaster tow bar that came with my RV and etrailer was able to steer me to the correct missing parts to make this a really affordable installation. Now to get out of this snow!
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by:
2004 Subaru Impreza
We towed our 2004 Subaru Impreza WRX STI 3000 miles last year, this is an ideal setup, discreet when not in use, solid, and easy to get on/off. Very please with the support I received from Roadmaster as one of the bolt was missing, was sent super quickly.
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by:
Replaced same part that was damaged in a crash. I had used my original one for close to ten years without issue. Fast shipping from etrailer.
James profile picture

James

7/3/2026

New system working fine. As with previous system it requires towed vehicle to be nearly perfectly aligned straight behind motorhome to disconnect without considerable tension.

by:
The Base plate kit is well made and came with all the necessary hardware.Installation is relatively straight forward. I did have to enlarge two of the holes that didn't quite line up. But overall I'd recommend it.
David profile picture

David

5/24/2026

It continues to work flawlessly

by:
Overall the installation was great, however the process of drilling 3 - 1/2" holes in that little bumper that has a Rockwell Hardness of about 60, seems to be a bit over the top.The instructions are spot on, delivery was great, the quality of product was accurate. I am a happy boy!
by:
2015 Chevrolet Equinox
Fit and finish is great, the illustration for what you trim on the bumper isn't great but otherwise pretty easy install (I ended up measuring between the mounts on the draw bar and just trimmed accordingly)
Christopher H. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Christopher H.

8/4/2026

Thanks for you feedback Thomas! Sounds like the install went smooth. Hope you have a great summer!

by:
I’ve been purchasing products from ETrailer since 2005 and all the products I’ve purchased have been a great value. The products mentioned above installed perfectly and with the direct assistance from ETrailer everything fit as suggested. I will always interact with ETrailer as needs present themselves.
Claire H. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Claire H.

5/7/2026

Thank you so much for the kind words and being a repeat customer with us! We look forward to helping you out with all your future adventures!

by:
After ordering the wrong crossbar, etrailer sent the correct one for our Mini Cooper quickly. However I did have to modify most of the holes as the cross bar didn’t quite fit (but close). I had to drill the three main bolt holes to 11/16 so that the bar would go over the Mini’s 3 main bumper bolts on both sides. The two lower bolt holes (each side), needed to be drilled out 3 sizes larger to accommodate the 4 bolts that come with the kit. I had to drill out the Minis lower holes to better align with the crossbars lower holes. I would also like to note it being a pain in the knuckles to reach one of the three (each side) bolts to put the stock nuts on the bolt and then try and get them tight. (The main bolt pattern for the upper bumper is diamond shape, one up tow bolts lower. (The lower “inside” bolt on each side is the one that is hard to get to and tighten.) Sorry I didn’t get picks, I was in a rush to get the car back together. There’s an angle piece on the cross bar that blocks the hard to reach bolt, it would be helpful if that could be made more accessible to reach.
by:
Purchased for a 1997 Subaru Impreza. Delivery was amazingly fast! I didn't have it installed until a few months later, as my travel plans had stalled. It didn't quite bolt right on, but was close, and a friend had to modify it some to make it work. I still hear a grating noise when I turn too sharp on one side, but otherwise it's fine.
The front connection plates didn't line up with the holes, so had to have those modified, as well, in order to line up and attach to the tow bar. Once the new holes were drilled, I was able to hook up and go.
It's relatively easy to connect after finding a way to do it alone.
I've towed from CO to TX and all over TX with it with no problems.
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by:
Install pretty easy. You will have to change directions of one bolt due to obstruction ( frame). Cannot torque a few of the bolts. These are the ones with wire attached.
Rock guard needed addition trimming from factory instructions.
by:
The representative (Sarah) was very helpful and knowledgeable, the prices are very reasonable and all my items arrived on time. When I called with a question, she was very polite, friendly and genuinely sounded like she enjoyed her job. When I discovered one of the items I ordered wasn’t needed, getting help to return was hassle free. I would recommend etrailer to anyone that needs anything RV or trailer related. I will definitely do business with them again. I am impressed.
by:
2022 Chevrolet Trax
Not an easy install on a Trax but it is very well made and gives a clean look. I did customize by cutting down the 6 pin bracket supports to get it flush with front of the car.
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See what our Experts say about this Roadmaster Tow Bar Base Plate

Do you have a question about this Tow Bar Base Plate?
  • Does Roadmaster Base Plate 118-15 Fit 1998 Chevy Tracker 2 Door?
    Hello Terry, thanks for reaching out. Yes, the Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate # 118-15 will fit your 2998 Chevy Tracker. Just keep in mind it will not fit models with a brush guard. Here are the rest of the parts I recommend for your flat tow setup: - Replacement Quick Disconnect Crossbar Assembly for Roadmaster Tow Bars # 910021-00 - etrailer SD Non-Binding Tow Bar for Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plates - RV Mount - 6,000 lbs # e74ZR - Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring...
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 1996 Geo Tracker
    You would need to have an all flat metal bumper on your 1996 Geo Tracker for the Curt tow bar part # C19745 to be able to connect. Since your vehicle does not have that you would need to go a different route. You would need to install a base plate kit. For that you would need the part # 118-15. For a lower priced tow bar we have the Roadmaster part # RM-020 which would be an excellent option. For safety cables you can use # RM-643. The coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground. For...
    view full answer...
  • Baseplate And Tow Bar Compatibility For A 1996 Geo Tracker
    The Roadmaster StowMaster Tow Bar # RM-501 is compatible with the Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit # 118-15 so you shouldn't need any other components aside from some safety chains, like part # RM-643. If your StowMaster doesn't have the crossbar base assembly then you'll need part # RM-910012-00. You'll also need some lights like part # TL21RK in order to display your motorhome's traffic signals.
    view full answer...
  • Everything Needed to Flat Tow a 1996 Suzuki Sidekick 2-Door Behind an RV
    If the crossover tube on your 1996 Suzuki Sidekick 2-door is open you will need to use base plates # 118-3. But you mentioned that it is open with a bracket welded on each side. If that bracket is not blocking the openings on the crossover tube then # 118-3 is correct. I have included a link to the installation instructions for you. The 118-3 base plates have a part of the bracket that looks like a tube that needs to be inserted into that crossover tube. If the ends are blocked then you...
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 1998 Chevy Tracker Behind an RV
    To flat tow your 1998 Chevy Tracker 2-door you will need base plates, a tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking. For base plates you can use XL base plates # 118-15 if you want to be able to remove the draw-bar arms or # 118-8 for fixed base plates that will always bee visible and present at the front of the vehicle. For a compatible tow bar I recommend the Falcon 2 # RM-520. But if you wanted to save some money you could use the Tracker tow bar # RM-020. If you go...
    view full answer...
  • Tow Bar Base Plate for 1997 Geo Tracker 2-Door 4 X 4 for Use With Draw-Tite Tow Bar
    We offer three different base plate kits for your 1997 Geo Tracker 2-Door that will fit as long as your Tracker is not equipped with brush guards. The link provided will take you to our page for all base plate kits. Roadmaster offers a choice of fixed-arm and removable-arm types. Removable arms allow the vehicle to retain more of its stock appearance when not being flat-towed and will help reduce bumps on your shins. Roadmaster # 118-15 has removable arms; the more cost-effective part...
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed To Flat-Tow My 1997 Geo Tracker 2 door 4x4
    In addition to base plates, tow bar, and wiring, you will also need safety chains and a supplemental braking system to flat-tow your 1997 Geo Tracker 2 door 4x4. The Roadmaster XL Base Plate Kit, part # 118-15, would be a good option for base plates for your Tracker. The XL Base Plate Kit features removable drawbars so that when the vehicle is not being towed, the base plates are less visible. The tow bar you selected, RoadMaster Tracker Tow Bar, part # RM-020, would work to tow your...
    view full answer...
  • Base Plate Kit to Flat Tow 1997 Suzuki Sidekick 4WD 2 Door
    Hey Joe, we have the Roadmaster base plate kit part # 118-15 that is a confirmed fit for the 1997 Suzuki Sidekick 2 door. Do you have a tow bar and everything else needed to flat tow the vehicle yet?
    view full answer...
  • Base Plates That fit a Two-Door 1998 Chevy Tracker
    The correct base plates for your two-door 1998 Chevrolet Tracker are the Roadmaster XL Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # 118-15. We do not have a video showing an installation of these plates, but the kit comes with everything you'll need except for Loctite Red # LT37420, which you'll use on all bolts when mounting the bracket. I've added a link to the instructions for you to take a look at; it's not a video, but it should provide you with a good idea of what the installation process...
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed to Flat Tow 1998 Chevrolet Tracker Behind 2005 Toyota Tacoma PreRunner
    Flat-towing a vehicle requires a number of components in addition to wiring/lighting for the towed vehicle. The linked article covers each of the required components, which include a tow bar, base plates for the towed vehicle, safety cables, wiring/lighting as well as a supplementary braking system for the towed vehicle. Laws vary by state but most require all of the above items to legally flat-tow. Not all vehicles, and not all versions of certain vehicles can be flat-towed. You will...
    view full answer...
  • Base Plate Kit For a 1996 Geo Tracker That Will Allow For Roadmaster Guardian Rock Shield
    The Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit # 1007-2 will fit the 4-door versions of the 1996 Geo Tracker. If you do have a factory brush guard it will not fit. If you have a 2-door the Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit # 118-15 will be the base plate you need. Both these kits will allow you to use your Roadmaster Guardian # RM-4000. We do have the Roadmaster Guardian 2nd Vehicle Kit # RM-4000-1 if you are using this with multiple vehicles.
    view full answer...
  • Adapter Recommendation for Adapting Roadmaster Base Plate to Blue Ox Tow Bar
    We have just what you would need to adapt the Roadmaster base plates on your 1997 Geo Tracker to your Blue Ox tow bar. If the arms of the base plate are removable you would need the part # RM-032 or if the arms of the base plate are not removable you would need the part # RM-033. The removable arm kit for your vehicle is the part # 1007-2 and the permanently mounted arm kit is the part # 118-15 in case you are unsure what you have.
    view full answer...
  • Will Roadmaster Base Plates Work with a P and E Industries Tow-Me Tow Bar for a Geo Tracker
    I was unable to find much information on the P and E Tow-Me tow bar so I cannot say whether or not that it will work with Roadmaster or Blue Ox base plates. I did find one person who said that the attachment from the tow bar to the base plates matched the Roadmaster products but I cannot verify that. What I recommend is to go ahead and get parts that you know will be compatible. Starting with the Roadmaster base plates, # 118-15, for an economical compatible tow bar you can use # RM-020...
    view full answer...
  • Base Plates for 1996 Suzuki Sidekick 2-Door 4X4 SUV
    For the U.S. model Sidekick we offer base plates from Roadmaster and Blue Ox that you can view by clicking on the link provided. In general I recommend staying with one brand for your tow bar and base plates. This avoids the cost and complexity of added adapters that are needed to join one brand of tow bar to another brand of base plate. The Roadmaster XL Base Plate kit # 1422-1 fits versions of the Jeep Liberty for model years 2002 through 2005. It does not fit any other Jeep vehicles...
    view full answer...
  • Will RoadMaster XL Base Plate Kits fit a Blue Ox Tow Bar and Do they Install Through the Bumper
    The XL Sytle brackets from RoadMaster will need an adapter to work with a Blue Ox Towbar. The adapter is part # RM-032. I have included a link to a video review of this adapter. Typically, the XL brackets install through the bumper. Part # 118-15 is for a 1996-1998 Geo Tracker, no brush guard, or 2 door Suzuki Sidekick.
    view full answer...

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Info for this part was:

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