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Roadmaster

Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

Part Number: RM42FR

3690 Reviews | 7 Questions

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$575.00

Retail:$1,071.53

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2016 Nissan NV 3500

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Product Images

roadmaster tow bar base plate removable draw bars twist lock attachment direct-connect kit - arms

roadmaster tow bar base plate twist lock attachment partially hidden rm42fr

roadmaster tow bar base plate removable draw bars direct-connect kit - arms

roadmaster tow bar base plate twist lock attachment partially hidden

roadmaster tow bar base plate twist lock attachment rm42fr

roadmaster tow bar base plate removable draw bars twist lock attachment

roadmaster tow bar base plate removable draw bars

roadmaster tow bar base plate removable draw bars partially hidden rm42fr

roadmaster tow bar base plate partially hidden rm42fr

roadmaster tow bar base plate removable draw bars partially hidden direct-connect kit - arms

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In Use/Installed

0 tow bar base plate roadmaster twist lock attachment partially hidden rm42fr

0 tow bar base plate roadmaster twist lock attachment rm42fr

0 tow bar base plate roadmaster partially hidden rm42fr

0 tow bar base plate roadmaster removable draw bars in use

0 tow bar base plate roadmaster removable draw bars partially hidden direct-connect kit - arms

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Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms customer photo

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SCHEDULE AN INSTALLATION

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 RM42FR 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 - RM42FR

Highlights

Custom Fit for Your Vehicle: Mounts to existing attachment points
Ready for Flat Towing: Direct-connect brackets create solid attachment points for your RV tow bar.
Blends In When Not Towing: Hidden brackets sit back in the grille for a clean, factory look.
Quick Hookup and Removal: Twist-lock arms click securely in place and release with a pull ring.
Built to Last: Computer-cut, all-steel construction with black powder coat resists corrosion.
Simple Setup: Installs on the frame with included mounting hardware—no welding required.

Features to know about

Made for a Clean Front End: Hidden Brackets and Removable Arms

This setup keeps your vehicle’s front end looking clean when you’re not towing. The base plate’s hidden design sits farther back than standard brackets, and once the drawbars are removed, the remaining brackets are virtually invisible. It installs on the frame and eliminates the need for a quick-disconnect crossbar, so there’s nothing bulky sticking out front.

Quick Hookups That Don’t Fight You: Twist-Lock, Pull-Pin Connection

When it’s time to tow, each arm slides into the bracket and twists to lock in place. Built-in pull rings let you unlock and remove the arms just as easily, making hookups smooth and repeatable. That straightforward twist-and-click setup means less wrestling with alignment and more time on the road.

Built to Last the Miles: All-Steel Strength with a Black Powder Coat

The computer-cut, all-steel construction gives this base plate exceptional strength mile after mile. A black powder coat finish adds corrosion resistance and keeps it looking sharp through weather and road grime. It mounts directly to your vehicle’s frame with no welding required, spreading towing forces evenly for a solid connection.

Ready to Bolt On: Hardware and Instructions Included

Everything needed for installation comes in the box—hardware and clear instructions included. Just grab your own tools and follow along. The design is made for simplicity while still giving you a secure fit that matches your Roadmaster motor-home-mounted tow bar setup, including models like Nighthawk, Sterling, Blackhawk, Blackhawk 2, Falcon, or Falcon 2.

Specs

Construction and Design

Type: Direct-connect brackets for motor-home-mounted tow bars
Material: Computer-cut, all-steel construction
Finish: Black powder coat finish (durable and corrosion resistant)
Design features: Streamlined design, virtually invisible when installed, partially hidden installation
Connection style: Eliminates need for quick-disconnect crossbar
Attachment mechanism: Removable draw bars with twist lock attachment
Locking system: Arms click to lock in place; built-in pull rings allow unlocking and removal

Installation

Mounting location: Vehicle frame
Installation type: Simple installation – no welding required
Included components: Instructions and mounting hardware included
Compatibility: Custom base plates ensure a perfect fit for your vehicle

Compatibility

Tow bar compatibility: Compatible with Roadmaster motor-home-mounted tow bars only
Vehicle fitment: Designed for Wranglers that have the Warn Elite bumper (as stated in related Q&A)

Country of Origin and Warranty

Made in: USA
Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty

Note

Important 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.

521455-5 Road Master EZ-5 Base Plate Kit

Installation Details RM42FR Installation instructions

This Product Fits The Following Vehicles

2018 - 2018 Jeep JK Wrangler Warn Elite bumper
2018 - 2018 Jeep JK Wrangler 4-Door Warn Elite bumper
2010 - 2017 Jeep Wrangler Warn Elite bumper
2010 - 2017 Jeep Wrangler 4-Door Warn Elite bumper

4.8

3690 reviews

5 Stars		(3214)
4 Stars		(316)
3 Stars		(67)
2 Stars		(30)
1 Star		(63)

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: James R 03/16/2024

This was what I needed although the ears that bolt onto the jeep frame were tweeked inboard so that it would not just fit over the frame. I had to adjust them both outward, then it was fine.

by: Joe D 05/24/2023 One Year Later

fits well and works as it should. very pleased.

by: Nickie 01/02/2023

Easy install and use

by: Daniel 11/04/2022

Jenny N.

11/9/2022

I hope that everything is ok with the base plate. If you have any concerns please reach out.

by: William 04/12/2026 One Year Later

by: Sheila 08/16/2026

2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

by: Ricky 09/20/2022 One Year Later

by: Chad 04/30/2026

by: Larrie 11/03/2022

by: Richard L 09/02/2021

by: Mark 07/01/2021

by: Darrel 01/12/2023

by: Kelly 10/04/2025

by: Darrell 08/06/2021

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.

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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?

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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?

Is Install Hardware Included With The Roadmaster Base Plate RM42FR?
Hi David! All the mounting hardware is indeed included with the Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM42FR (see the included picture). You will just need your own tools for the install. Unless you borrow someone else's tools or have someone else install it, that is. I saw you entered a 2012 Jeep Wrangler into our fit-guide (which this fits), but but wanted to mention that this specific base plate is designed to only be compatible with Wranglers that have the Warn Elite bumper,...
view full answer...
Adapter for Demco Commander II Tow Bar to Roadmaster Base Plate Kit on a 2017 Wrangler Rubicon
Hey Earl! The Demco Commander II Non-Binding Tow Bar # DM9511012 can definitely be used with a Roadmaster base plate kit! You'll need the Adapter # DM9523001 for the Crossbar-Bar Style # RM-521448-4, or the Adapter # DM9523032 for the Direct-Connect # RM42FR. If you have the standard factory bumper, you can also use the Demco Base Plate Kit # DM9519292 so you don't have to get an adapter. Do you already have the base plate kit?
view full answer...
What Aftermarket Jeep JK Bumpers Are Compatible with Roadmaster Base Plate Kits
When the Roadmaster # RM-521448-4 base plates are designed, they're designed to work with the standard factory bumper only. Due to the myriad of aftermarket bumpers available for the Jeep Wrangler JK platform, it'd be near impossible for Roadaster to test fit with all of them. The only aftermarket bumper Roadmaster mentions that's compatible with their base plates is the Warn Elite 101420 which is compatible with the # RM42FR direct connect base plate or the # RM92FR crossbar-style base...
view full answer...
Recommended Baseplate For A 2014 Jeep Wrangler With Warn Winch Bumper
Roadmaster has the Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM42FR, which is confirmed to fit the Warn Elite Bumper model no. 101420. You'll want to verify that this is the model number of your bumper to confirm fitment. If you haven't picked out the rest of your flat towing components then I have the following recommendations as well: Tow Bar: etrailer SD Non-Binding Tow Bar # e74ZR. This tow bar comes with safety cables bracketed to the arms of the so you won't have to purchase them...
view full answer...
Parts Recommended for Flat Towing a 2015 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon/ Automatic Trans.
For starters, you'll need base plates, but the base plates needed will depend on the front bumper your Wrangler is equipped with. If it's the straight factory bumper, use # RM-521448-5. If you have the Warn Elite 87750 or 87775 bumper, use # 1439-3. For a Warn Elite 101420 bumper with no lower valence below the bumper, use # RM42FR. For a tow bar, I'd recommend the Roadmaster Falcon All-terrain tow bar, part # RM-522. The Falcon All-terrain will self center and lock into place while you...
view full answer...
Recommended Roadmaster Baseplate for a 2018 Jeep JK Wrangler Unlimited
Hey Harold welcome back! We do not carry flat tow capable bumpers so I do not have a recommendation for one. There are quite a few baseplate kits that will work with the etrailer SD Non-Binding Tow Bar item # e74ZR, you purchased a couple years ago. Which one you go with is going to depend on what model Jeep you end up buying. I have listed the options below: Standard Factory Bumper with no winches or guards - Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit item # RM-521448-5 Warn Elite bumper...
view full answer...
Recommended Flat Towing Parts for a 2016 Jeep Wrangler
You shouldn't need to add anything to your RV. It looks like the 2018 Winnebago Vista came with a 2" hitch rated for 5,000 lbs and a 7-way connector. The 7-Way connector is what you will plug the wiring coming from your Jeep into. Your Winnebago has hydraulic brakes so you won't need to mess with air lines. I am not sure what list you are going off of but here's another one with the Roadmaster parts I recommend using to flat tow your 2016 Jeep Wrangler: Tow Bar and Safety Chains - Roadmaster...
view full answer...

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Info for this part was:

Edited by:

Lindsey S

Updated by:

Wilson B

Updated by:

Amanda K

Written by:

Mike S

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