Demco, base plate, on 07/11, crv

[chucl66]

would line to hear from anyone using the Demco base plate.
Looking at the install manual, it seems like it would be easier to install than Blue OX.
What are the Pro/con, for the Demco, for hook up, towing.

Thanks,
Chuck

[Gjac]

I bought the Demco base plate and tow bar 10 years ago for a 2002 Toyota Corolla. I bought the 10,000 lb Steel version and the tow car only weights 2500 lbs. The base plate was easy to install. Had to remove the plastic fascia on the front and lock tight on all the bolts. Like Sehunter I have had two friends who have lost the towed with the Al Blue OX. I don't take mine off so the added weight of the steel was not a problem I wanted the 10,000 lb version just for a safety factor and it was also cheaper. The only problem that I had was very fine dirt stopped the pistons from locking when I got back from Alaska(lots of dirt roads) went to the Demco web site and dissembled and clean it and all was well again, that was 5 years ago. It is probably due to be cleaned again but all I do is spray some silicone on the pistons once a year and it works fine.

[Crespro]

Second Demco baseplate -- 2008 Saturn and now 2014 Enclave. Aluminator tow bar.

Both seem very solid. The Demco on the Enclave has plastic covers for the connectors -- basically not visible to anyone who does not understand baseplates.

[chucl66]

Thanks for the info.
Will check installation and see which will work best for crv.

Chuck

[tatest]

It varies by vehicle, and you can get some ideas by consulting the installation instructions.

For my 2001 Ford Ranger Edge, I preferred the Demco baseplate, it installed about the same as a Blue Ox and brought the tabs out through an opening almost level with the hitch on my motorhome, rather than under the bumper like Blue Ox and Roadmaster.

For my 2012 Fit, I preferred the Blue Ox, because it preserved the OEM front bumper, installed to the subframe behind the bumper, and brought tabs out through the grill less than 2" lower than the hitch on my motorhome.

So look at the installation instructions, figure out what is important to you.

[sehunter]

I've been using Demco for about 5 yrs, the 10k version. I had a lesser tow bar break and decided I wanted the heaviest duty I could find. It has been great getting ready to use it on the 3rd toad.

[tropical36]

DEMCO was on sale when we ordered our READYBRUTE/ELITE, so went with it and now can't imagine using anything else on our particular vehicle. Also don't see how it could be made any stronger or with a more foolproof design for mounting.

[JerryofWV]

I have used and installed Demco base plates on 4 toads over the last 9 years. No problem with them.