Installing Blue Ox Base Plate Kit on 2009 Honda CR-V  

Question:

Expert Reply:

The Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BX2246 referenced in your question is confirmed to fit your 2009 Honda CR-V. There are not any particular shops near your home in Escondido that we recommend, but any local mechanic with a good reputation should be able to handle it without issue.

What I recommend doing is showing the attached installation instructions to a nearby mechanic so you can get an accurate quote beforehand. Some fascia trimming and minor drilling will be needed, and the bumper fascia wil be removed and replaced during installation.

In order to flat tow your CR-V, you will also need a tow bar, safety cables, lighting solution, and a supplemental braking system. If you do not yet have some of these components, you can refer to my recommendations below.

For a tow bar that will work great with the Blue Ox Base Plates and your Honda CR-V, I recommend the Blue Ox Alpha # BX7380. This is a really nice tow bar that features a self-aligning design to allow for easy hookup, even on unlevel ground. Safety cables are also included so they will not need to be purchased separately.

Then for tow bar wiring, I recommend the Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Kit # RM-15267. This diode kit will let you wire your CR-V to accept the RV's tail, brake, and turn signal lights for flat towing. It includes a 6-Way connector that will mount to the front of the vehicle, and enough coiled wiring to go from there to the 7-Way on your RV. You can also add the Roadmaster FuseMaster Fuse Bypass # RM76511 to take the hassle out of having to remove fuses on your vehicle before flat towing. According to the online owner's manual for your CR-V, you will want to remove the 7.5A Accessory Radio fuse to reduce drain on the battery.

For a supplemental braking system, I highly recommend the Blue Ox Patriot III # BLU37TR, along with the 12V Outlet Kit # RM-9332. This proportional system will physically press down on the brake pedal inside your CR-V at the same time and with the same intensity that you apply to them in the RV.

Lastly, you will likely need a high-low adapter in order to keep the tow bar level. I have attached an article that explains how to choose the best one for your setup, along with a link that will take you to our available selection. I have also included video demonstrations on the products mentioned and an FAQ on flat towing that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Chris R

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