Hi Lo Bar

[Sleeperzo6]

Hello, I just received my build date from Newmar for a New Aire. Have read several discussions on having a Toad and plan to use my 2011 AWD CRV. Local shop suggested buying a Blue Ox Ascent and that a Hi Lo Bar may be needed. I have also read the thread on Blue Ox Avail tow bars failing. I am concerned
that the Hi Lo Bar may impart some structural weakness. Further, is the aluminum Ascent tow bar a good structural choice?
1. Anyone using a CRV toad with a New Aire and is the Hi Lo Bar required?
2. Is steel a better choice and going up to 10K or 15K rating?
3. Is there a more reliable tow bar?
Thanks, John

[96 Wideglide]

I'm guessing the 'Hi / low' bar he is mentioning is a drop receiver.

Personally, Blue ox would be my last choice. I use a 10,500 lb Demco towbar, on a lighter toad than your Honda.

[Roy-c]

Never having used a Blue Ox I am certainly not an expert but it seems like that is the name most associated with failures lately. We use a ready brute with the ready brake system on our Wrangler and have been very happy with it. Simple, all mechanical and ruggedly built.

[sgwyble]

The Blue Ox failures reported lately have been with the Avail which is a 10,000 lbs steel tow bar. I have the Ascent which is a 7,500 lbs aluminum and I have had no problems.
You will not know about the hi/low (drop receiver) until after you decide on a baseplate for the CRV. You want the connection on the car to be within +- 3" of the hitch to make sure you are towing level. These are not usually necessary on a DP.

[RKins]

Look at Road Masters high/lo receivers. 10k lb rated. The reason they are saying hi/low may be needed is you need to try to keep the tow bar level, coach to towed.

[PetesMH]

I use a hi/low adapter and a blue ox ascent tow bar. I’m very happy with both. The drop adapter is made for its purpose and armchair engineering/worrying is not very productive. There are failures of nearly anything mechanical and you can worry yourself silly over them. Blue Ox is a premium product and while you can do what your gut tells you to do I would t hesitate. Just be sure to follow instructions.

[Sleeperzo6]

I want to thank everyone for their input. My “concern” is to avoid mistakes as I am not an engineer.

[MJoyce]

PM me. If you decide you need one, I have a hi/lo that I no longer need. It was used to tow a CRV.

[Sleeperzo6]

Marty & Denise, thank you for the offer. That is a very kind thing for you to offer.
John