Community Forums

wahlfamily · 08-25-2013, 10:56 PM

Hi, I have a 29' Class C Four Winds. We just bought a 2001 AWD CRV with a stick to tow behind the RV. We don't full time anymore, so we will only be towing for occasional long weekend trips or a week long trip once in awhile. Any suggestions on what type of tow bar to get - Blue Ox, Roadmaster, others? Do I need a brake buddy if I am not full timing while towing? I'm looking for ease of use and a low budget - but reliable. Thanks for the help!

vsheetz · 08-25-2013, 11:09 PM

Brake system is required in many states and common spence to have in all states. Full timing or not does not matter.

sswilson · 08-25-2013, 11:25 PM

Tow bars and baseplates will be determined by cost and appearance on your towed vehicle. They all seem to work and stow similarly. Make sure the CRV is towable four down. Check your owners manual. As far as a brake buddy, there are different tow weights allowed without secondary or assisting brakes in each state and province, and I must admit, I have towed without and now with. I feel must safer with and I feel much better going down the mountains not having to rely on my MH brakes to handle the extra 5000# The break away feature would come in very handy also. I was able to find a Demco Excalibur-Bar 8500# tow bar that had been barely used for less than $300 I tow a full size f150 4x4 so I can put my Goldwing in the back.

Verify what the GCWR of the proposed Class C will be to be certain of the weight you can tow.

Mr_D · 08-25-2013, 11:26 PM

I use a RoadMaster Sterling and BrakeMaster brake set up when towing four down.
As to whether it's necessary: Yes, just as it takes more power to move more weight it takes more braking force to stop more weight.
As to legalities: There is no reciprocity on braking equipment. if you go in to ANY state that requires it then you are required to have it.

vsheetz · 08-25-2013, 11:47 PM

ReadyBrute with ReadyBrake combo
Readybrake RV Tow Bars and RV Surge Braking Systems for Car Towing - NSA RV Products

vraines · 08-26-2013, 06:56 AM

The braking system is very necessary and probably required in nearly state although the laws vary with minimum weights. I spent the time on line with the manufacturers sites to determine what might meet my needs and budget. I have bought a tow bar on eBay and was lucky to get what was advertised. You will find a good selection of base plates for that car. If you do your own installation, then determine which brand has the least involved installation. I have done My own installation on several toads and just completed one on my new toad. I believe I saved nearly $800 for four hours work. If you will depend on custom installation, then spend your time searching for the best deal on the installation.

wa8yxm · 08-26-2013, 10:08 AM

Do you need a braking system: YES. that is the only answer to that question.

Which tow bar comes with a built in surge brake system:

Ready brute with Ready brake

Which one has it as an option: Blue ox not sure which models.

TXiceman · 08-26-2013, 11:12 AM

As you have figured out by now, yo also need a braking system in the dinghy as well as a tow bar.

The Ford chassis has a limit on towing UN-BRAKED loads of 1500# per the owners manual. And the laws of physics also require more brakes to stop more weight.

Ken

Hikerdogs · 08-26-2013, 11:37 AM

Your Four Winds motorhome is in all likelyhood built on a Ford chassis. Ford says an auxillary braking system is required when towing anything over 1,500 lbs. Be sure your motorhome has the capacity to tow your CRV. Many class C motorhomes are limited to towing 3,500 lbs