Let’s Dive into Smart Solutions 00014 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home
The Smart Solutions 00014 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home promises to be a robust shield against road debris, protecting your towed vehicle. Smart Solutions aims to offer a durable and customizable solution for motorhome owners looking to safeguard their investments. This review delves into whether the Ultra Guard lives up to its protective claims and offers true value for money.
As a seasoned RV enthusiast, I’ve seen my fair share of vehicles battered by rocks, gravel, and road grime while being towed. My quest for the Smart Solutions 00014 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home stemmed from a desire for a reliable barrier against these hazards. I was looking for a product that offered both durability and ease of installation without breaking the bank.
The unboxing experience was straightforward. The Ultra Guard is a large, solid sheet of vulcanized rubber, clearly built for heavy-duty use. The weight of the material inspires confidence, suggesting it can withstand significant impact. Initial inspection revealed a clean, one-piece design that should provide adequate coverage.
Compared to brush-style tow guards or DIY solutions, the Smart Solutions Ultra Guard seemed a more comprehensive and professional option. I chose this over cheaper alternatives, trusting in the rubber’s potential for longevity and impact resistance. The promise of customization to fit around hitches and exhaust pipes also appealed to me.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The Ultra Guard seemed like a substantial product, but its effectiveness would depend on real-world performance. The included mounting bar (sold separately) would be critical to a secure and reliable installation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Smart Solutions 00014 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test of the Smart Solutions 00014 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home was a cross-country trip from Arizona to Florida. The route involved varying road conditions, from smooth interstate highways to rough, gravel-strewn backroads. I encountered everything from sunshine to heavy rain.
The Ultra Guard did an admirable job of deflecting debris. I could hear rocks hitting the guard but saw no damage to the towed vehicle. Even in the rain, the guard seemed to prevent excessive road spray from coating the towed car.
Installation required some initial adjustments. Notching the rubber to accommodate the hitch took time, but it was manageable. Once installed, the guard remained secure.
There were no major issues on the first trip, only a slight flapping at high speeds in strong crosswinds, suggesting the need for additional reinforcement at the edges.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Smart Solutions 00014 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home has proven its worth. It’s endured thousands of miles and various weather conditions. The vulcanized rubber shows minimal signs of wear and tear.
The guard has withstood repeated impacts from rocks and debris. There are some minor surface scratches, but no significant damage to the material itself. The nylon cord reinforcement seems to be doing its job, preventing tears or rips.
Maintaining the Ultra Guard is simple. A quick rinse with water removes most road grime. I occasionally use a rubber protectant to keep it from drying out.
Compared to my previous experiences with less robust tow guards, the Smart Solutions offering has been a clear upgrade. It provides superior protection and requires less maintenance. I’m pleased with its long-term performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Smart Solutions 00014 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home
Specifications
- The Smart Solutions 00014 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home is constructed from 3/8″ thick ultra-durable vulcanized rubber with a nylon cord reinforcement. This thickness and material choice are crucial for deflecting road debris and preventing damage to the towed vehicle.
- Its dimensions are 20″ L x 94″ W. This width is designed to provide broad coverage behind the motorhome, protecting the full width of most towed vehicles.
- The guard attaches to the bumper or frame using a separately sold 1″ L x 1″ W x 70″ W Steel Angled Mounting Bar (part # 00094). This mounting system is critical for the guard’s stability and effectiveness.
- The material can be cut or notched to accommodate hitches, exhaust pipes, wiring, etc.. This customization is necessary to ensure a proper fit and prevent interference with other vehicle components.
The vulcanized rubber’s durability is important because it directly impacts the product’s lifespan and its ability to withstand impacts. The nylon cord reinforcement adds strength and prevents tearing, essential for long-term use.
Performance & Functionality
The Smart Solutions 00014 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home excels at protecting towed vehicles from road debris. It significantly reduces the risk of rock chips, dents, and paint damage. Its wide coverage provides ample protection for most vehicle types.
The primary strength lies in its robust construction. The thick rubber effectively absorbs impacts. The ability to customize the guard to fit specific vehicle configurations is also a significant advantage.
A potential weakness is the need for a separate mounting bar. Including this as a standard component would simplify installation. Additional edge reinforcement could also reduce flapping at high speeds.
Overall, the Ultra Guard meets my expectations for a durable and effective tow guard. It provides a tangible benefit by safeguarding my towed vehicle.
Design & Ergonomics
The Smart Solutions 00014 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home features a simple, one-piece design. The vulcanized rubber feels substantial and well-made. Its weight contributes to its stability.
The design is functional, prioritizing protection over aesthetics. There’s no learning curve involved. Installation is straightforward with basic tools and some patience.
Durability & Maintenance
The Smart Solutions 00014 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home is built to last. The vulcanized rubber is resistant to cracking and tearing. Proper maintenance involves occasional cleaning and rubber protectant application.
With reasonable care, this tow guard should provide years of reliable service. The robust construction suggests it can withstand harsh conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Smart Solutions 00014 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home doesn’t include many accessories. The crucial accessory is the separately sold mounting bar (part # 00094). Without it, installation is impossible.
Beyond the mounting bar, customization focuses on cutting and notching the rubber. This allows the guard to fit around various hitches and vehicle components. Compatibility with aftermarket accessories is limited, as the design is specific to its intended function.
Pros and Cons of Smart Solutions 00014 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The 3/8″ thick vulcanized rubber and nylon cord reinforcement provide superior protection against road debris.
- Wide Coverage: The 94″ width effectively shields towed vehicles from edge-to-edge.
- Customizable Fit: The ability to cut and notch the rubber allows for seamless integration with various hitches and vehicle setups.
- Easy Maintenance: Cleaning is simple, requiring only water and occasional rubber protectant.
- Long-Term Value: The robust construction ensures years of reliable service, making it a worthwhile investment.
Cons
- Mounting Bar Sold Separately: The necessity of purchasing the mounting bar separately adds to the overall cost and complexity.
- Potential for Flapping: At high speeds and in strong crosswinds, the edges may exhibit some flapping, requiring additional reinforcement.
Who Should Buy Smart Solutions 00014 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home?
The Smart Solutions 00014 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home is perfect for RV owners who frequently tow vehicles behind their motorhomes. It is especially beneficial for those traveling on roads with gravel, construction, or other potential hazards. This product is ideal for those seeking a durable and customizable solution for protecting their towed vehicles.
Those on a very tight budget or who only tow occasionally might consider cheaper alternatives. Individuals who prefer a complete, all-in-one solution (including the mounting bar) might find this product less appealing. A must-have accessory is the Smart Solutions mounting bar (part # 00094). Consider adding edge stiffeners for enhanced stability at high speeds.
Conclusion on Smart Solutions 00014 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home
The Smart Solutions 00014 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home delivers on its promise of robust protection. It effectively shields towed vehicles from road debris, minimizing the risk of damage. The vulcanized rubber construction ensures durability.
The price is justified considering the long-term value and peace of mind it provides. However, the need to purchase the mounting bar separately is a drawback.
I would personally recommend the Smart Solutions Ultra Guard to any RV owner serious about protecting their towed vehicle. It is a worthwhile investment that offers tangible benefits. Take the plunge and protect your investment with the Smart Solutions 00014 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home.