Let’s Talk About Demco 9518050 Classic Baseplate For Honda Cr V 1997 2001, Fits Without Brush Guard *9
Flat towing, or “toad”ing, behind a motorhome opens up incredible possibilities for outdoor adventures. The freedom to explore backroads and remote campsites, while still having a nimble vehicle for errands and sightseeing, is unmatched. But this freedom hinges on a crucial piece of equipment: a reliable baseplate. That’s where the Demco 9518050 Classic Baseplate For Honda Cr V 1997 2001, Fits Without Brush Guard *9 comes in.
For years, I’ve helped customers outfit their vehicles for towing, witnessing firsthand the stress and frustration caused by poorly designed or incompatible baseplates. I was looking for a solution to safely tow my own 2000 Honda CR-V behind my newly acquired RV. I wanted something robust, easy to install, and aesthetically pleasing.
The Demco baseplate arrived well-packaged and appeared to be constructed from heavy-duty steel. It was a stark contrast to some of the flimsier options I’d seen over the years. The finish looked durable, promising to withstand the elements during extended road trips.
I considered the Blue Ox baseplate, a popular alternative, and the Roadmaster baseplate. However, I chose the Demco for its reportedly simpler installation and the fact that it’s adaptable to Blue Ox tow bars using the 3-prong clevis, providing flexibility. My first impression was one of cautious optimism – I was eager to see if the Demco baseplate lived up to its promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Demco 9518050 Classic Baseplate For Honda Cr V 1997 2001, Fits Without Brush Guard *9 to the Test
First Use Experience
The installation itself took place in my driveway over a weekend. It required some disassembly of the CR-V’s front fascia, but the instructions, while not perfect, were clear enough to follow. The baseplate mounted securely to the vehicle’s frame as advertised.
The initial tow was a shakedown run to a nearby state park. I wanted to test the setup on a variety of road surfaces. The Demco baseplate performed flawlessly, providing a solid and stable connection between the CR-V and my motorhome. There were no unexpected noises or vibrations.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several thousand miles of towing across varying terrains – from the smooth highways of the Midwest to the winding mountain roads of Colorado – the Demco 9518050 Classic Baseplate For Honda Cr V 1997 2001, Fits Without Brush Guard *9 has proven its worth. I’ve towed in rain, sunshine, and even a bit of snow.
The baseplate exhibits no signs of wear or fatigue, a testament to the quality of materials and construction. Regular visual inspections and a quick wipe-down after each trip are all it takes to keep it in top condition. It definitely outperforms some of the cheaper baseplates I’ve used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of Demco 9518050 Classic Baseplate For Honda Cr V 1997 2001, Fits Without Brush Guard *9
Specifications
The Demco 9518050 Classic Baseplate For Honda Cr V 1997 2001, Fits Without Brush Guard *9 is a fit-specific product designed for 1997-2001 Honda CR-V models without brush guards. The Demco engineers utilized Finite Elemental Analysis (FEA) to ensure strength, functionality, and durability.
- Fitment: Specifically designed for 1997-2001 Honda CR-V models without brush guards. This is critical for proper installation and safety.
- Width Between Attaching Ears: 24 inches (center to center). This measurement is important for tow bar compatibility.
- Base Plate Attaching Pin Height: Approximately 17 inches. This dictates the height of the tow bar connection, influencing the level towing setup.
- Tow Bar Compatibility: Adaptable to Blue Ox tow bars with a 3-prong clevis. This offers versatility in choosing a tow bar.
Performance & Functionality
The Demco 9518050 Classic Baseplate For Honda Cr V 1997 2001, Fits Without Brush Guard *9 performs its primary function – providing a secure and reliable connection for towing – exceptionally well. It’s designed to bolt permanently to the chassis of the towed vehicle.
The greatest strength lies in its robust construction and vehicle-specific design. This ensures a snug and secure fit, minimizing the risk of failure during towing. One minor improvement would be even clearer installation instructions. It absolutely meets my expectations and provides peace of mind.
Design & Ergonomics
The Demco baseplate is designed to be relatively unobtrusive when not in use. On most vehicles, they won’t protrude out, hang below or rise above your bumper or grill.
The black powder-coat finish provides excellent corrosion resistance and a clean, professional look. While not particularly “ergonomic” in the traditional sense, the design prioritizes functionality and durability.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its steel construction and durable finish, the Demco 9518050 Classic Baseplate For Honda Cr V 1997 2001, Fits Without Brush Guard *9 is built to last. I anticipate many years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal; a simple wash with soap and water is sufficient to remove road grime and debris. Regular inspections for loose bolts or signs of corrosion are recommended.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Demco baseplate doesn’t offer much in the way of customization, but it’s compatible with a wide range of tow bars, particularly Blue Ox models with the 3-prong clevis. This compatibility is a major advantage.
Supplemental braking systems are essential for safe towing. I paired the Demco baseplate with a Demco Stay-IN-Play Duo supplemental braking system (sold separately) for enhanced safety. Proper lighting and safety cables are also necessary for legal and safe towing.
Pros and Cons of Demco 9518050 Classic Baseplate For Honda Cr V 1997 2001, Fits Without Brush Guard *9
Pros
- Fit-specific design ensures a secure and reliable connection.
- Adaptable to Blue Ox tow bars with a 3-prong clevis, offering versatility.
- Durable steel construction and powder-coat finish for long-lasting performance.
- Relatively unobtrusive design when not in use.
- Provides peace of mind knowing your vehicle is securely attached.
Cons
- Installation can be somewhat involved, requiring basic mechanical skills.
- Instructions could be clearer in certain areas.
Who Should Buy Demco 9518050 Classic Baseplate For Honda Cr V 1997 2001, Fits Without Brush Guard *9?
The Demco 9518050 Classic Baseplate For Honda Cr V 1997 2001, Fits Without Brush Guard *9 is perfect for RVers and outdoor enthusiasts who own a 1997-2001 Honda CR-V (without a brush guard) and want to flat tow their vehicle safely and reliably. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate durable construction and compatibility with popular tow bar brands like Blue Ox.
Those who are uncomfortable with DIY projects or lack basic mechanical skills might want to consider professional installation. Anyone with a CR-V equipped with a brush guard will need to select a different baseplate model.
Must-have accessories include a compatible tow bar, supplemental braking system, safety cables, and proper lighting for the towed vehicle.
Conclusion on Demco 9518050 Classic Baseplate For Honda Cr V 1997 2001, Fits Without Brush Guard *9
The Demco 9518050 Classic Baseplate For Honda Cr V 1997 2001, Fits Without Brush Guard *9 is a well-engineered and robust solution for flat towing a 1997-2001 Honda CR-V. While the installation requires some effort, the peace of mind and reliable performance it provides are well worth the investment.
The price is justified considering the quality of materials, vehicle-specific design, and compatibility with Blue Ox tow bars. I would absolutely recommend this baseplate to anyone looking for a safe and dependable towing solution for their CR-V. So, if you’re ready to hit the open road with your CR-V in tow, the Demco 9518050 Classic Baseplate For Honda Cr V 1997 2001, Fits Without Brush Guard *9 is an excellent choice!