Recommended Base Plates and Flat Towing Equipment for 2005 Honda Pilot

Updated 05/06/2015 | Published 05/05/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Demco Commander II Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,000 lbs

(87)

$879.00

Demco Classic Base Plate Kit - Fixed Arms

(304)

$454.83

Pollak Heavy-Duty, 4-Pole, Round Pin Socket, Concealed Terminals - Chrome - Vehicle End

(52)

$11.34

Roadmaster Bulb and Socket Tail Light Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - Incandescent

(446)

$84.48

Question:

I am looking to purchase a base plate for a 2005 Honda Pilot, but I am not sure what the difference is between the base plates that say without brushguard or with brushguard. Does this mean the brushguards are included with the purchase or that they simply are compatible with aftermarket brushgurads? Thank you for your help.

asked by: Jairo G

Expert Reply:

What it simply means is that some of the base plate kits will fit your 2005 Honda Pilot if it has a brushguard and others won't. Personally I recommend the Demco kit, # DM9517143, because it works with whether you have the brushguard or not. I also like the Demco kits because they pair with the Demco tow bars that have independent arms, include safety cables, and are made in the USA. The Commander II, # DM9511012, would work perfectly for you.

For a lighting solution, I recommend the # RM-155 bulb and socket kit. This allows a permanent installation, but keeps the additional bulbs completely isolated from the taillight wiring of the vehicle, so there's no cutting, splicing or fooling with diodes necessary.

You'll also need a supplemental braking system. I'd recommend the Delta Force # SM99242. It installs or removes in seconds, with no lengthy or expensive installation needed.

According to what I read on page 182 of the online edition of your owner's manual, your Pilot is indeed capable of being flat towed at speeds up to but not exceeding 65 mph. Honda lists a specific procedure that needs to be followed before flat towing, so I'd recommend looking through it.

I've linked you to some FAQ articles about flat towing.