First Impressions of CIPA USA 11501 Custom Towing Mirror For Classic Ford Driver Side
The CIPA USA 11501 Custom Towing Mirror For Classic Ford Driver Side promises to solve a common problem for owners of classic Ford trucks and vans: limited visibility when towing. The CIPA mirror boasts a custom fit, easy installation, and an extended view, all without permanently altering the vehicle. This sounds like a simple, effective solution for anyone hauling trailers with their beloved classic Ford.
I’ve owned a 1995 Ford F-150 for years. While it’s a reliable truck, the original side mirrors are woefully inadequate for towing my small camper. I’ve tried strap-on universal towing mirrors before, but they vibrated excessively and never felt secure. I was searching for a more stable and aesthetically pleasing solution.
Upon unboxing the CIPA mirror, I immediately noticed the solid ABS plastic construction. The mirror felt lightweight yet sturdy, and the custom-molded design seemed promising. Compared to the flimsy universal mirrors I’ve used, this one appeared to be a significant upgrade. I had considered permanently installing aftermarket towing mirrors. However, I was hesitant to drill into my classic truck.
Initially, I was optimistic about the CIPA USA 11501. The promise of a custom fit and easy installation fueled my anticipation. If it delivered on those promises, it would be a valuable addition to my towing setup.
Real-World Testing: Putting CIPA USA 11501 Custom Towing Mirror For Classic Ford Driver Side to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the CIPA mirror while towing my camper on a weekend trip to a nearby state park. The trip involved both highway driving and winding back roads. The installation was indeed straightforward; the mirror slid over the existing factory mirror with ease, and the wedge lock system seemed secure.
The initial visibility improvement was immediately noticeable. The extended mirror provided a much wider field of view, especially helpful when changing lanes or backing into the campsite. There was minimal vibration compared to the universal strap-on mirrors I had previously used. However, I did notice some slight distortion in the extended mirror’s reflection at highway speeds.
No major issues arose during the first use, but I did find myself frequently adjusting the outboard mirror to maintain the optimal viewing angle. The adjustment knob felt a little stiff.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the CIPA mirror has held up reasonably well. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the ABS plastic housing. The scratch-resistant glass mirror face remains clear, despite exposure to rain, sun, and dust.
Cleaning the mirror is simple; a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth is usually sufficient. The installation wedge still feels secure, but I have noticed a slight loosening over time. I occasionally need to re-tighten the installation knob to prevent any slippage.
Compared to my previous experiences with universal towing mirrors, the CIPA mirror offers a far more stable and reliable towing experience. While it doesn’t completely eliminate vibration or distortion, it represents a significant improvement.
Breaking Down the Features of CIPA USA 11501 Custom Towing Mirror For Classic Ford Driver Side
Specifications
The CIPA USA 11501 Custom Towing Mirror For Classic Ford Driver Side is designed specifically for the driver’s side of classic Ford vehicles. It fits standard factory mirrors on the following models: 1992-1997 Ford Full-Size Pickups; 1990-1997 Ford Aerostar Van; 1992-1996 Ford Bronco; 1997 Ford F250 and F350 HD Classic. The mirror housing is constructed from durable ABS plastic for strength and weather resistance.
The mirror face is made from scratch-resistant glass for clear visibility. The kit includes one driver-side mirror, one installation knob, one installation wedge, one felt strip, and illustrated installation instructions. The custom fit ensures minimal vibration and a sleek appearance. These specifications are important because they directly impact the mirror’s stability, clarity, and ease of installation.
Performance & Functionality
The CIPA USA 11501 significantly improves towing visibility. The extended outboard mirror provides a wider field of view, reducing blind spots and enhancing safety. Its greatest strength lies in its custom fit. The mirror provides a relatively stable and vibration-free viewing experience compared to universal options.
One weakness is the limited adjustability of the outboard mirror. Achieving the perfect viewing angle can sometimes be challenging. Overall, the CIPA mirror largely meets expectations, offering a practical and affordable towing solution for classic Ford owners.
Design & Ergonomics
The CIPA mirror’s design is sleek and complements the original factory mirror. The ABS plastic construction feels durable, and the lightweight design doesn’t add excessive weight to the existing mirror. There’s virtually no learning curve. Installation is quick and intuitive, requiring no special tools or skills.
Durability & Maintenance
The ABS plastic and scratch-resistant glass should provide years of reliable service. Routine cleaning with a standard glass cleaner is all that’s required. The installation wedge may require occasional re-tightening to maintain a secure fit.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CIPA USA 11501 comes as a complete kit with all necessary installation hardware. There are no additional customization options available directly from CIPA. However, some owners might choose to add aftermarket convex spot mirrors to the outboard mirror for an even wider field of view.
Pros and Cons of CIPA USA 11501 Custom Towing Mirror For Classic Ford Driver Side
Pros
- Custom-fit design ensures a secure and stable fit on compatible Ford vehicles.
- Easy, tool-free installation saves time and effort.
- Provides a significantly wider field of view for safer towing.
- Durable ABS plastic construction for long-lasting performance.
- Sleek design complements the original factory mirror.
Cons
- Limited adjustability of the outboard mirror can make it difficult to achieve the optimal viewing angle.
- Some slight vibration and distortion may occur at highway speeds.
Who Should Buy CIPA USA 11501 Custom Towing Mirror For Classic Ford Driver Side?
The CIPA USA 11501 Custom Towing Mirror For Classic Ford Driver Side is perfect for owners of classic Ford trucks, vans, and Broncos (specifically 1990-1997 models as listed earlier). If you tow trailers regularly and want a simple, effective way to improve your visibility, this mirror is an excellent choice. This product is also suitable for those who want a towing mirror solution that doesn’t require permanent vehicle modifications.
Anyone seeking a high-end, fully adjustable towing mirror with integrated turn signals or power adjustment should skip this product. Also, if your Ford truck or van has aftermarket mirrors installed, the CIPA mirror likely won’t fit properly.
A must-have modification might be adding a small convex spot mirror to the CIPA’s outboard mirror. This will further enhance the field of view and eliminate blind spots.
Conclusion on CIPA USA 11501 Custom Towing Mirror For Classic Ford Driver Side
The CIPA USA 11501 Custom Towing Mirror For Classic Ford Driver Side offers a practical and affordable solution for improving towing visibility on classic Ford vehicles. While it’s not perfect, its custom fit, easy installation, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment. At around $50, the price is definitely justified.
I would personally recommend the CIPA USA 11501 to any classic Ford owner looking for a simple, effective, and non-permanent towing mirror solution. If you value safety and want to tow with confidence, this mirror is a solid choice. Upgrade your towing experience today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with enhanced visibility!