Let’s Dive into Smart Solutions 00011 Rock Solid Tow Guard Truck/Suv
Towing a vehicle behind your truck or SUV opens up a world of adventure. However, it also exposes your precious cargo to the relentless assault of road debris. The Smart Solutions 00011 Rock Solid Tow Guard Truck/Suv promises to be the ultimate shield, protecting your towed vehicle from costly damage. This review digs deep into its design, performance, and value to determine if it truly lives up to its “Rock Solid” name.
I’ve spent years watching towed vehicles get sandblasted by rocks, gravel, and whatever else the road throws up. I needed a reliable solution that was easy to install and wouldn’t require constant maintenance.
The Smart Solutions Tow Guard immediately stood out with its flexible TPR construction and easy-to-install design. I considered other tow guards like the Protect-A-Tow and Roadmaster Tow Defender, but the Smart Solutions appeared to offer a better balance of flexibility, durability, and ease of use.
My initial impression was positive. The material felt substantial and the two-piece design seemed clever. I was eager to see how it performed in the real world.
Real-World Testing: Putting Smart Solutions 00011 Rock Solid Tow Guard Truck/Suv to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Smart Solutions Tow Guard on a 500-mile road trip, towing a small SUV behind my pickup truck. The trip included a mix of highway driving, gravel roads, and even some light off-road sections.
The Tow Guard performed admirably in dry conditions, deflecting rocks and other debris effectively. Installation was a breeze, sliding right onto the hitch insert of my 2″ receiver. I didn’t need to spend too much time getting used to it as I used a similar product before. My main interest was the quality of the new product. No surprises so far.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and thousands of miles of use, the Smart Solutions Tow Guard is holding up well. There are some minor scuffs and scratches, but no significant wear or tear.
The TPR material is proving to be incredibly durable and resistant to cracking or tearing. Cleaning is simple – just hose it down with water. Compared to other tow guards I’ve used in the past, the Smart Solutions model is significantly more robust and requires less maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Smart Solutions 00011 Rock Solid Tow Guard Truck/Suv
Specifications
- Dimensions: 14″ L x 34″ W. This provides ample coverage to protect a wide range of towed vehicles.
- Material: All-weather resistant TPR (thermoplastic rubber). TPR offers excellent flexibility and impact resistance, ensuring long-lasting protection.
- Design: Two-piece sliding design. The sliding design allows for easy installation and removal, offering convenience when not towing.
- Mounting: Installs on the hitch insert of most 2″ receiver hitches. This simple mounting system makes installation quick and straightforward.
- Includes: All brackets, hardware, and mounting bar are included in both hitch mount kits. Having all the necessary hardware included simplifies the installation process.
These specifications are important because they directly affect the effectiveness and ease of use of the tow guard. The size determines the coverage area, while the material dictates its durability.
Performance & Functionality
The Smart Solutions Tow Guard excels at its primary job: protecting your towed vehicle from road debris. Its flexible flaps effectively deflect rocks and other projectiles, minimizing the risk of damage.
The vented flap design allows air to flow through, reducing wind resistance and preventing overheating. The two-piece design makes it easy to remove the tow guard when not in use, a significant convenience. While the tow guard performed well in most situations, it struggled slightly in muddy conditions, with mud accumulating on the flaps. Overall, it meets my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Smart Solutions Tow Guard boasts a simple yet effective design. The TPR material is both durable and flexible, providing excellent protection without adding excessive weight.
The two-piece sliding design is user-friendly, allowing for quick installation and removal. The all-weather resistance of the TPR material ensures that the tow guard can withstand harsh conditions.
Durability & Maintenance
The Smart Solutions Tow Guard is built to last. The TPR material is highly resistant to wear and tear, ensuring years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with soap and water. The durable construction minimizes the need for repairs or replacements, saving you time and money.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Smart Solutions 00011 Rock Solid Tow Guard Truck/Suv comes with all necessary mounting hardware. There are no additional customization options available directly from Smart Solutions.
However, users can potentially modify the mounting system to better suit their specific hitch setup. The tow guard is generally compatible with most standard 2″ receiver hitches, making it a versatile option.
Pros and Cons of Smart Solutions 00011 Rock Solid Tow Guard Truck/Suv
Pros
- Effective Protection: Deflects road debris to protect towed vehicles from damage.
- Easy Installation: Simple sliding design allows for quick installation and removal.
- Durable Construction: TPR material is resistant to wear and tear, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- All-Weather Resistance: TPR material withstands harsh weather conditions.
- Vented Flaps: Allows air to flow through, reducing wind resistance.
Cons
- Mud Accumulation: Can accumulate mud in wet conditions.
- Limited Customization: Lacks extensive customization options.
Who Should Buy Smart Solutions 00011 Rock Solid Tow Guard Truck/Suv?
The Smart Solutions 00011 Rock Solid Tow Guard Truck/Suv is perfect for RVers, frequent towers, and anyone who wants to protect their towed vehicle from road debris. It’s ideal for those who value ease of use and durability.
Those who primarily tow in muddy conditions or require extensive customization options may want to consider alternative solutions. A locking hitch pin is a must-have accessory to prevent theft.
Conclusion on Smart Solutions 00011 Rock Solid Tow Guard Truck/Suv
The Smart Solutions 00011 Rock Solid Tow Guard Truck/Suv is a reliable and effective solution for protecting your towed vehicle from road debris. Its durable construction, easy installation, and all-weather resistance make it a worthwhile investment.
At $215.49, the price is justified by the peace of mind and potential cost savings from preventing damage to your towed vehicle. I would highly recommend the Smart Solutions Tow Guard to anyone looking for a durable and easy-to-use tow protection system. Protect your investment and hit the road with confidence.