Road Master Base Plate

[Boeing Guy]

I need an opinion.
I have a road master 5250 tow bar.
I just bought a 2012 Explorer and need to get it set up for towing.

I can use either the 4427 -3A MX or 4427-1A XL.
When I started doing research on a new toad, Roadmaster suggested that I use the -3A MX and not use the base assembly (cross bar pt no 910021-00).

Here's the problem. The -3A (MX) base plate is not available. It is back ordered for 2 weeks (or so). We are leaving for an East Coast trip around that time, which means that we would be without a toad. The -1A (XL) is available and can be shipped immediately.

My question is, what is the difference between using the MX and XL. I know with the XL I would have to use the base assembly (cross bar). Is using the base assembly ( cross bar) a big deal or not. I don't want to use it if I don't have to but waiting for an MX would be a problem. Do they look the same on the car when not towing? Is it easier to hook up the car with or wothout using the base assembly (cross bar).
I need to make a quick decision. I don't want to tell her "I told you so", but I told her NOT to plan the trip until we got the car set up for towing, but who listens to me?
Thanks

[Roger D]

I ordered my tow bar from PPL motorhome in houston they show the difference between xl an mx