Community Forums

Herman Snerd · 10-05-2013, 07:54 PM

I'm interested in opinions of Blue Ox v. Demco when it comes to tow bars. I've been doing quite a bit of research and have come down to these two. Specifically, the Blue Ox "Alpha" and the Demco "Commander."

Both are about the same cost, essentially have the same ratings, and very similar features. Even the baseplates seem to be about the same in ease of mounting and use.

I'm just looking for some advice. Why you prefer one over the other. I will offer that I had my mind set on the Demco version, but was talked out of it by my local supplier. He preferred Blue Ox, but when pressed, wouldn't offer me any real, tangible reason why...

Thanks in advance.

kalynzoo · 10-07-2013, 11:54 PM

I have the Demco Alumilite which has been problem free for 6 years. Previously I had a Demco KarKaddy dolly. When I did have a problem (a blowout damaged the fender, and later I wanted paint to perk it up) Demco was exceptionally helpful. I liked their customer service and support. Never dealt with the other company.

Mr_D · 10-07-2013, 11:59 PM

And you left out RoadMaster. Why?

dennis45 · 10-08-2013, 12:22 AM

Which one is best?
Should I buy a Ford, Chevy or Dodge? How bout a Honda or Toyota?
Personally, I use Blue Ox cause it's the best.

TexasSprinter · 10-08-2013, 08:45 PM

I'm sure there are fans for all, and for good reasons. I can only speak to the fine people at Blue Ox. We had them do the whole thing - wiring, tow plate installation, and tow bar. And we had it done at the factory. I was impressed with their thoroughness, speed of service, and just good old Midwest friendliness. They did what they said, they did it when they said, it worked exactly like they said it would, it was less expensive then they said it would be, and they let us stay at their nice little campground in Pender, Nebraska as they did it. I have not had the product that long, but you sure can't beat old fashioned service.

Wayne M · 10-08-2013, 09:27 PM

I used a DEMCO for my 2007 Saturn Vue for 4 years. I now have a 2013 Lincoln MKX and I have towed with the Blue Ox two times, one for 241 miles and today for 65 miles.

With the DemCo it was very difficult to get the pins out. Over 90% of the time I would use a screw driver and hammer to push the pins out. It was not easy. However, storing the safety cables, and light hook-ups were easy with the DemCo.

With the Blue Ox, unhooking is easier. In the two instances of towing, one leg was always easy and the other only needed the steering wheel to be turned to release the pressure. Since I have the Kargard II as extra rock protection the cables are taken off and stowed in a bay until I need them the next time. Not problematic.

My 2 cents.

Herman Snerd · 10-08-2013, 09:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mr_D

And you left out RoadMaster. Why?

Too much $$$.

tedgard01 · 10-08-2013, 11:12 PM

I use Demco. I would buy either, but my RV service man recommended the Demco.

I do not have issues with the pins, and find it very easy to hook up and unhook, but it took several trips before I learned some tricks that makes it much easier. I have never had to use a screwdriver and hammer like posted earlier. Usually, just pushing the release relieves the pressure on the pins, after engaging the parking break. If you don't engage the parking brake before pushing the release lever, you could experience tension on the pins, and once you pull the pins, the car could even start rolling away..... On the rare occasion that the pins are still tight after pushing the release, simply turning the wheal, or starting the car and putting it in gear will release the pressure.

The Blue Ox generally costs more, and is more popular, but I don't think it is better.

Regardless, there are two other reasons that you may want the Blue Ox;
1) It looks cool.
2) With the removable connectors, the base plate may not be as visible when the toad is unhooked.