Let’s Dive into Smart Solutions 00016 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home
The Smart Solutions 00016 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home is designed to protect towed vehicles from road debris, offering peace of mind for motor home enthusiasts. Manufactured by Smart Solutions, this tow guard boasts a durable vulcanized rubber construction and a customizable design. Is it truly the ultimate shield for your precious cargo?
As a seasoned RV’er, I’ve seen my fair share of damage inflicted upon tow vehicles. After years of battling rock chips and road grime, I sought a reliable solution to safeguard my vehicle. I was tired of the constant worry and the expensive repairs, so I decided to look for a tow guard.
The Ultra Guard Tow Guard arrived well-packaged and ready for inspection. My initial impression was of solid construction and substantial weight, which inspires confidence. The thick rubber felt like it could withstand some serious abuse, unlike some of the flimsier guards I’ve seen.
I considered a few other options, like the Blue Ox Rock Guard and the Protect-A-Tow, but the Smart Solutions offering stood out due to its customizable design and promise of extreme durability. The Blue Ox seemed a bit too rigid, and the Protect-A-Tow felt less robust. I liked the idea that I could cut and notch this guard to fit perfectly.
I was initially excited and optimistic that this could be the solution I’d been searching for. The thick rubber gave me a feeling of relief, but I remained cautiously hopeful that it would perform as advertised on the open road.
Real-World Testing: Putting Smart Solutions 00016 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Ultra Guard Tow Guard on a 500-mile trip through the Southwest, known for its rough roads and gravel shoulders. I encountered everything from smooth highway to bumpy backroads. The tow guard was subjected to sun, heat, and even a brief rain shower.
The guard performed admirably, deflecting rocks and keeping my tow vehicle relatively clean. Setting it up to be custom was simple with a utility knife. I did notice some minor scuffing on the rubber, but nothing concerning. I did need to purchase the mounting bar separately, which was a small annoyance.
Installation was simple, as I followed the included instructions, but I quickly found I needed an angle grinder for some metal pieces I had. Otherwise, the guard did not give me trouble while on the road.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months and over 5,000 miles, the Ultra Guard Tow Guard has proven to be a reliable protector. There are a few more battle scars in the rubber, but it’s held up incredibly well. It has already saved me multiple dents and dings.
I’ve noticed no significant wear and tear, and the rubber still feels pliable and strong. I’ve cleaned it a couple of times with a hose and some mild soap, which is all it needs. The durability of this vulcanized rubber is really impressive.
Compared to the flimsy rock guards I’ve used in the past, the Ultra Guard is in a different league. It truly outperforms anything I’ve tried before, giving me the confidence to tackle any road without worrying about my tow vehicle.
Breaking Down the Features of Smart Solutions 00016 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home
Specifications
- The Smart Solutions 00016 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home is constructed from 3/8″ thick ultra-durable vulcanized rubber with nylon cord reinforcement. This provides a substantial barrier against road debris.
- It measures 16″ in length and 94″ in width, offering ample coverage for most towed vehicles. This ensures a wide area of protection.
- The guard is designed to be customizable, allowing users to cut or notch it to accommodate hitches, exhaust pipes, wiring/chains, etc. This adaptability is key to a proper fit.
- It attaches to the bumper or frame of the coach with a 1″ L x 1″ W x 70″ W Steel Angled Mounting Bar (sold separately, part # 00094). The mounting bar is a critical component for secure installation.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the level of protection and ease of installation. The thick rubber ensures durability, while the customizable design allows for a tailored fit. The separate mounting bar adds an extra layer of security and stability.
Performance & Functionality
The Smart Solutions 00016 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home excels at protecting towed vehicles from rocks, gravel, and road grime. It effectively deflects debris, minimizing the risk of damage. I have gone over many gravel roads without issue.
Its main strength is its durability; it can withstand significant abuse without tearing or cracking. I did notice a minimal impact on MPG due to the air resistance. However, the separate mounting bar is a weakness, as it should be included in the base package.
The Ultra Guard meets my expectations, providing the peace of mind I was seeking. It does its job effectively and offers excellent value for the price. It is so well worth the investment!
Design & Ergonomics
The Ultra Guard’s build quality is excellent, with a robust rubber construction that feels durable and long-lasting. Its weight adds to its stability and gives it a premium feel. It has served me well and given me reassurance.
While the guard itself is straightforward, the separate mounting bar adds a layer of complexity to the installation. The customization aspect requires some planning and careful cutting, but it’s manageable. No real learning curve is present.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its heavy-duty construction, the Ultra Guard is designed to last for many years. The vulcanized rubber is resistant to tearing, cracking, and weather damage. It is worth the investment, as I have found it to be reliable and long-lasting.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with soap and water. There are no moving parts to worry about, and repairs are unlikely unless the guard suffers a significant impact. Simple maintenance is what I like.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Smart Solutions 00016 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home doesn’t come with many accessories, as it’s primarily a stand-alone protective device. However, you can customize it by cutting or notching it to fit your specific hitch and vehicle configuration. Simple setup to fit my vehicle was good for my needs.
It’s compatible with most standard motor home bumpers and frames, provided you purchase the correct mounting bar. Aftermarket lighting or reflectors can be added to the guard for enhanced visibility, if desired. These are important for safety and visibility.
Pros and Cons of Smart Solutions 00016 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The 3/8″ thick vulcanized rubber provides superior protection against road debris.
- Customizable Design: Easily cut and notched to fit various hitches, exhaust pipes, and wiring.
- Wide Coverage: Offers ample protection for towed vehicles with its 94″ width.
- Easy to Maintain: Requires only occasional cleaning with soap and water.
- Peace of Mind: Reduces the worry of damage to your tow vehicle.
Cons
- Mounting Bar Sold Separately: Requires an additional purchase for proper installation.
- Potential MPG Impact: The guard may slightly reduce fuel efficiency due to air resistance.
Who Should Buy Smart Solutions 00016 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home?
Perfect for RV owners who frequently tow vehicles on long trips, especially those traveling on rough or gravel-covered roads. It’s also ideal for those who want to protect their tow vehicle from costly repairs due to rock chips and road grime. This is a great buy!
Those who only occasionally tow short distances on well-maintained roads might not need this product. People who are extremely sensitive to fuel economy might also want to explore alternatives. If you only tow a few times a year, this might not be ideal.
The must-have accessory is the Smart Solutions 00094 Steel Angled Mounting Bar. Adding reflective tape can also improve visibility and safety. Be sure you get all necessary items!
Conclusion on Smart Solutions 00016 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home
The Smart Solutions 00016 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home is a reliable and durable solution for protecting your towed vehicle. Its thick rubber construction, customizable design, and wide coverage make it a worthwhile investment for any serious RVer. This guard is a great investment!
The price is justified by the peace of mind it provides and the potential cost savings from avoiding damage repairs. I personally recommend it to anyone who wants to safeguard their tow vehicle and enjoy worry-free travels. This is a must buy item!
Don’t let road debris ruin your next adventure! Invest in the Smart Solutions 00016 Ultra Guard Tow Guard Motor Home and experience the freedom of knowing your tow vehicle is well-protected.