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Roadmaster

Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

Part Number: 1188-3

3687 Reviews | 4 Questions

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$670.00

Retail:$742.50

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1994 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

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1188-3 - Partially Hidden Roadmaster Removable Draw Bars

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In Use/Installed

Roadmaster Hitch Pin Attachment Tow Bar Base Plate - 1188-3

1188-3 - Hitch Pin Attachment Roadmaster Removable Draw Bars

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SCHEDULE AN INSTALLATION

Designed specifically for heavy-duty applications, direct-connect brackets install onto your vehicle's frame to provide attachment points for a motor-home-mounted tow bar. Front arms are easily removable when not in use. Great Prices for the best tow bar base plate from Roadmaster. Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms part number 1188-3 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 - 1188-3

Highlights

Custom Fit for Your Vehicle: Mounts to existing attachment points
Ready for Flat Towing: Provides solid frame-mounted points for secure RV towing.
Blends In When Not Towing: Removable drawbars leave brackets nearly invisible in the grille.
Built to Last: Computer-cut, all-steel construction with black powder coat resists corrosion.
Faster Hookups: Direct-connect design eliminates the crossbar for quicker, simpler attachment.
Straightforward Setup: Custom fit and included hardware make installation clean and precise.

Features to know about

Built for a Clean Front End: Hidden Base Plate with Removable Drawbars

If you want your setup to stay out of sight when you’re not towing, this design keeps things tidy. The hidden bracket design leaves only small brackets tucked inside the grille, so nothing bulky sticks out. The drawbars come off fast using two pins, leaving the front end looking clean and protected from scrapes or bumps.

Simplifies Hookup and Travel Prep: Direct-Connect Design with No Crossbar

Getting ready to tow is easier when there’s no extra hardware in the way. This direct-connect setup attaches straight to your tow bar, so you don’t need a crossbar. That means faster hookup and fewer parts to manage every time you hit the road. The design pairs with Roadmaster tow bars that slide into standard trailer hitch receivers, like the Nighthawk, Sterling, Blackhawk, Blackhawk 2, Falcon, and Falcon 2.

Strong Where It Counts: All-Steel Construction with Durable Finish

Every mile adds up, so strength matters. These computer-cut, all-steel brackets bolt right to the frame for solid support under heavy towing loads. The black powder coat finish stands up to corrosion and road wear, keeping everything looking sharp after long hauls.

DIY-Friendly Setup: Bolt-On Install with Included Hardware

This kit is made to go on without welding. The custom brackets line up for a proper fit and come with complete mounting hardware and instructions. Once installed, the base plates give you sturdy attachment points for your tow bar without changing the vehicle’s look when not in use.

Specs

Construction and Design

Design: Hidden bracket design - drawbars are easily removable via 2 pins
Material: Computer-cut, all-steel construction provides exceptional strength
Finish: Black powder coat finish is durable and corrosion resistant
Installation: Simple installation - no welding
Fitment: Custom base plates ensure a perfect fit for your vehicle
Crossbar Requirement: No crossbar needed - faster hookup and sleeker appearance
Compatibility: Compatible with all Roadmaster tow bars that slide into trailer hitch receivers
Included Components: Instructions and mounting hardware included
Country of Manufacture: Made in the USA
Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty

Note

Note: Direct-connect base plates will work only with the Roadmaster tow bars that slide into a trailer hitch, such as the Nighthawk, Sterling, Blackhawk, Blackhawk 2, Falcon, and Falcon 2. These base plates will not work with tow bars that require a hitch ball.
Direct-connect brackets do not require a crossbar because of the heavy-duty nature of your vehicle's frame. Thus, installation is simplified, the hookup process is faster, and the total appearance is enhanced.
Note: The EZ Hook safety cables included with Roadmaster's Sterling tow bars will not work with direct-connect base plates. These cables connect to an anchor plate on the Quick Disconnect crossbar, which will not be present when you are using these base plates.
The drawbars, or front arms, on the direct-connect base plate kit are simple to mount and remove, easily securing with pins. Once the drawbars have been removed, the remaining brackets are virtually invisible. On most automobiles, the brackets are mounted within the grille, where they remain not only unseen, but protected from scrapes and scuffs as well.

1188-3 Road Master MX Base Plate Kit

Installation Details 1188-3 Installation instructions

This Product Fits The Following Vehicles

2009 - 2013 Toyota Corolla Manual transmission

4.8

3687 reviews

5 Stars		(3212)
4 Stars		(315)
3 Stars		(67)
2 Stars		(30)
1 Star		(63)

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.

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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.

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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?

Jeff One Year Later

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!

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by: Mark 02/25/2026 One Year Later

Easy to install needed to replace some fasteners as they broke removing front grill was able to get them from Amazon cheap

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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!

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Heather A.

4/10/2026

Wow great job Crystal! It looks great! Also, I couldn’t help but notice “Ski Express” on the car, that’s pretty cool. What kind of work do you do?

Crystal R.

4/10/2026

@HeatherA I’m a pilot car driver. We escort oversized loads across the country. Thanks to E Trailer I was able to add a High pole to my car expanding my business and bringing in more revenue already. Thanks!

by: 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.

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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....

Larry

9/23/2026

The 523228-5 DOES NOT FIT MY 2026 CHEVY TRAX LT! Look at the side braces in your video of a Demco base plate install (upside down "U"). That is what is needed for my install. In Roadmasters install instructions, page 7, items #2, #3 have no frame in that area to bolt to & #5 has only one ho l e on bact end and putting a bolt in that hole leaves 3/4" short of main base plate. I sent pics to verify this to Noah on 9/22 @ 11:46AM. I know, unless you tried this install personally you are going by Roadmaster's word. BE CAREFUL IN SUGGESTING THIS FIT UNTIL YOU VERIFY. I just do not want someone else to have this experience. Thoughts ?

by: David 08/01/2025 One Year Later

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 One Year Later

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: 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.

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by: Gary 06/18/2025 One Year Later

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. One Year Later

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: Paul 10/23/2026

I just followed your video of the installation and it was on point !

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by: Michael 09/25/2025 One Year Later

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.

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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!!!!

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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: Steve B. 09/03/2025 One Year Later

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.

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by: Conrad 10/14/2026 One Year Later

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.

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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!

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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 )

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by: John 09/03/2025

Very fast shipping, and the install was easy. Great product

John One Year Later

9/4/2026

After a year of towing my truck up and down the east coast with my motorcoach, I am very happy with this product. it looks as good as the day it was installed and works perfect

Lazer S.

9/4/2026

@John Glad to hear it's been working well for you! What has been your favorite place you have gone so far?

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.

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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?

by: Matthew 04/24/2025 One Year Later

The folks at etrailer are fantastic. I didn't know everything I needed to tow my car behind our RV... but they did! Everything I needed was in the boxes and the videos made it all come together. Thank you to everyone at etrailer!

Brooke M.

4/27/2025

It ain't nothin' but a thang, Matthew! I hope you know we will always be here if you ever have any more projects we can help you with :)

Matthew One Year Later

4/25/2026

Weve been using our Roadmaster set up for over two years and have traveled several thousand miles. All I do is make sure everything is cleaned and lubed. No problems so far.

by: Richard 03/10/2024 One Year Later

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

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Richard One Year Later

3/11/2025

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

Bryce D.

3/11/2025

@Richard That's really great to hear! Did you take any memorable trips?

by: Clark 07/25/2026

2026 chevrolet Colorado

This was a bit of a challenge to install on a 2026 Chevrolet Colorado Z71. One item to be aware of, as you take off the front Facia of the truck for the install, there are two Facia "brakets" that attach to the front fenders that seem like they are use once plastic snaps. Three of the 4 snaps broke off on both sides when I removed the facia. These are about $35 a piece from Chevy and prevent you from making this a 1 day job. Additionally, there are 2 7mm screws/bolts that connect one of the coolers to the back of the bumper support and these are a real problem to get back in - over an hour of time and every 1/4" tool in my arsenal was needed to find a way to get these started. Finally, one of the Connecting Plates (Passenger side) needed to holes to be elongated to enable all the bolts to be started. Finally - you need to put the Brakaway bracket on the driver side, to have enough cable to reach you brake system. Probably have 4 hours in the disassembly and installation of the Direct-Connect Plate. Now waiting a couple days for the plastic brackets from Chevy to complete the install. Good Luck!!

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Recommendations for Towing 2013 Toyota Corolla S Behind Motorhome
For your 2013 Toyota Corolla, as long as it has a manual transmission you can flat tow it. If that is the case I recommend the Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms for 2013 Toyota Corolla # 1188-3. Then for a tow bar I recommend the Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar - Motorhome Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,000 lbs # RM-520 with safety cables # RM-643. Then for your tow bar wiring I recommend the Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit # RM-15267. The supplemental...
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Recommended Flat Towing Set Up for a 2010 Toyota Corolla
Yes, you can flat tow a 2010 Toyota Corolla but only if it has a manual transmission. If you do not have a manual transmission you will want to use a dolly like item # DM9713093. To flat tow your 2010 Toyota Corolla you will need the following parts: 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 # 1188-3 Wiring Harness - Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil...
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Ready Brute II Tow Bar Compatible Base Plate Recommendation for 2012 Toyota Corolla
Manual transmission equipped models of the 2012 Toyota Coralla are capable of being flat towed. The cool thing about the Ready Brute Elite II tow bar is that it's compatible with the Roadmaster # 1188-3 direct connect base plates without needing to use an adapter. That integrated braking feature is pretty cool, too! In addition to the base plates and tow bar, you'll also need safety cables like # RM-643 and a wiring solution like # RM-15247. If the 15.5 inch installed height of the...
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Roadmaster MX Base Plate Kit for a 2004 Hummer H2
The part you selected # 1188-3 does not fit the Hummer H2. For the 2004 Hummer H2 you can use the # 2506-3 base plate kit. The MX Series is specifically designed for vehicles with heavy-duty frames, like yours, and would be a good choice. These brackets do not require a cross bar either which simplifies installation and makes hook-up faster. The MX base plates require a Class III or heavier receiver hitch on the tow vehicle and can not be used with a hitch ball like other base plate kits....
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Info for this part was:

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Expert Research:

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Written by:

Lindsey S

Updated by:

Wilson B

Updated by:

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Updated by:

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