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Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
I just purchased a 2013 Honda CR-V to tow behind my 2007 23.5 FD. Now I need to set it up for flat towing. I am pretty handy with all things mechanical so after watching quite a few YouTube videos I think I can handle it myself including the grade 8 bolts on the LD. Wondering if there are any DIYers out there that regretted taking on this task or was it as easy as it looks on YouTube? In case I chicken out, are there any recommendations for shops in the Portland /Salem Oregon are that you would trust with this project?
TIA
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #1 –
Can't help you.  I  used the ever-effective checkbook tool to install the baseplate and SMI invisibrake to set up my 2011 CRV.
 ;)
Joel & Terry Wiley
dog Zeke
2013  31 IB   Orwan   / 2011 CRV Tow'd LWEROVE
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #2 –
Yes I have one of those tools as well.  I just like to use it sparingly.
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #3 –
"I just purchased a 2013 Honda CR-V to tow behind my 2007 23.5 FD."

Once you have overcome the hardware installation and you are ready to make that 1st tow are you aware that there is a specific routine to run the gears before you attempt a tow???

Start with the transmission in Neutral. DO NOT go to Reverse! Shift to Drive, then to each of the lower gears, pausing a few seconds in each gear to allow oil to do its job. Finally shift back to Neutral and leave it there while towing. This is recommended by Honda!   ;)
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #4 –
Quote from: Lazy Bones  - 
"I just purchased a 2013 Honda CR-V to tow behind my 2007 23.5 FD."

Once you have overcome the hardware installation and you are ready to make that 1st tow are you aware that there is a specific routine to run the gears before you attempt a tow???

Start with the transmission in Neutral. DO NOT go to Reverse! Shift to Drive, then to each of the lower gears, pausing a few seconds in each gear to allow oil to do its job. Finally shift back to Neutral and leave it there while towing. This is recommended by Honda!   ;)
Thanks for the warning.  I did see that sequence in the owners manual and the Motor home magazine Dingy towing guide. Also saw the YouTube of the RV owner that drove some distance with the Toad in park. Definitely don't want to be that guy.
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #5 –
Quote from: Lazy Bones  - 
Start with the transmission in Neutral. DO NOT go to Reverse! Shift to Drive, then to each of the lower gears, pausing a few seconds in each gear to allow oil to do its job. Finally shift back to Neutral and leave it there while towing. This is recommended by Honda!   ;)

Exactly the reason I bought a manual Subaru to tow.  Put it in ACC and neutral, then go.
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #6 –
We have towed our CR-V for the past 9 years. The procedure to ready it for towing is: ignition to Start, warm up for 5 minutes, shift transmission to Drive then Neutral, then ignition from Run to Accessory. Not really a burden.
2013 27’ Mid-Bath
2005 Honda CR-V
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #7 –
The baseplate installation is heavy but a straightforward operation if you are comfortably mechanically inclined. More involved is the choices, mounting, and installation of the braking system and electrical wiring. Familiarize yourself with all that before deciding to tackle the job.

Steve
2004 FL
2013 Honda Fit
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #8 –
I installed a Blue Ox tow bar on my 2019 Honda Civic (manual transmission).  I found their instructions to be straight forward and easy to follow for someone who is comfortable doing things like taking the bumper cover off, using loctite and a torque wrench, and generally understanding how mechanical things fit together. 

RIch
2003 MB
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #9 –
Quote from: Steve  - 

More involved are the choices, mounting, and installation of the braking system and electrical wiring. Familiarize yourself with all that before deciding to tackle the job.

A lot of people have successfully tow CRVs for decades, they make great toads.
The wiring is more time-consuming and daunting than the baseplate installation, IMO.
Upgrade to a six or seven-pin plug and umbilical cord. The extra pins can be used for a toad battery charger, a dash brake indicator light, and possibly a manual brake button, good for testing the toad brake before descending a steep downgrade.
Stay-IN-Play DUO Braking System | Demco Products
Roadmaster Inc. - Tow Bars, Braking Systems & RV Accessories
Manufacturer of the Ready Brute Elite tow bar and the Ready Brake       Check to see if it fits a CRV, the engine may be in the way.
The biggest problem I have is installing the tow brake control box, there aren't many empty spaces under the hood of modern cars.

Make sure to add a toad battery charger, powered by the LD, the CRVs have very small batteries and will die if towing for too long. The CRV's battery will power the towing brake.
RVi Towed Battery Charger Plus, charge line replacement for flat towing
TOAD-CHARGE Dinghy Vehicle Battery Charger/Maintainer

To isolate the toad's tail lights from the toad's electrical, I use diodes from Roadmaster. It's delicate work due to the small wiring used by Honda. I also suggest switching to LED bulbs for the brightest taillights.
https://www.etrailer.com/Accessories-and-Parts/Roadmaster/RM-790.html?feed=npn&msclkid=219ec104cb581b20b394a228402d848c&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Bing%20%7C%20Shop%20-%20Accessories%20and%20Parts&utm_term=4577610507259564&utm_content=General

Steve's suggestion to plan the wire runs before starting is a good one, the wires need to be secured and protected.
I wrap all the exposed wiring in split plastic tubing and secure them with zip-ties and clamps.
https://www.amazon.com/Dorman-86663-Black-Flexible-Conduit/dp/B003P9UW56/ref=asc_df_B003P9UW56?tag=bngsmtphsnus-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=80676783858770&hvnetw=&hvqmt=e&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=&hvtargid=pla-4584276309198762&psc=1
3/8' and 1/2" split plastic tubing are the most common sizes used.

Plan on a few days to complete this project, there is a lot to do.
Larry
As an Amazon Associate Lazy Daze Owners' Group earns from qualifying purchases.
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #10 –
Quote from: Lazy Bones  - 
"I just purchased a 2013 Honda CR-V to tow behind my 2007 23.5 FD."

Once you have overcome the hardware installation and you are ready to make that 1st tow are you aware that there is a specific routine to run the gears before you attempt a tow???

Start with the transmission in Neutral. DO NOT go to Reverse! Shift to Drive, then to each of the lower gears, pausing a few seconds in each gear to allow oil to do its job. Finally shift back to Neutral and leave it there while towing. This is recommended by Honda!   ;)
My 2014 CRV has a little different procedure that does include shifting into reverse. We used this method for over 5000 miles last year with no problems. The method below is from RV magazine, but looks like what we did. BTW - we went exactly with what's in our owners manual. We definitely took our time at each position, but going forward I might take a little longer in each position just to be sure!

"The CR-V is approved by Honda for flat towing with a couple of pre-tow procedures: While idling the engine, press the brake pedal and move the shift lever through all its positions. Then shift the transmission to drive and hold for five seconds, then to neutral and idle for three minutes"

Ron
2009 31' IB "BoonDoggle"
2014 Honda CRV Towed
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #11 –
Great summary Larry. I would add that what might take Larry a few days took me two weeks when installing the components Larry suggests! 

I do recommend DIY, however as once you’ve done the job you will be prepared to diagnose and service the equipment in the event of a need (which there will be).

Have fun with it!

Warren
Warren
2019 MB “Dream Catcher”
Jeep Wrangler JL
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #12 –
I've used a Blue Ox towbar system with the RVi2 brake system for many thousands of miles on our 2002 CRV with success. I also ran a charge line to keep the battery charged during towing.

Our 2002 manual recommends running through all the gears.

RVi - Flat Towing Product for Your RV Adventures

TOAD-CHARGE Dinghy Vehicle Battery Charger/Maintainer


2021 Mid Bath
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #13 –
Quote from: Larry W  - 
A lot of people have successfully tow CRVs for decades, they make great toads.
The wiring is more time-consuming and daunting than the baseplate installation, IMO.
Upgrade to a six or seven-pin plug and umbilical cord. The extra pins can be used for a toad battery charger, a dash brake indicator light, and possibly a manual brake button, good for testing the toad brake before descending a steep downgrade.
Stay-IN-Play DUO Braking System | Demco Products
Roadmaster Inc. - Tow Bars, Braking Systems & RV Accessories
Manufacturer of the Ready Brute Elite tow bar and the Ready Brake       Check to see if it fits a CRV, the engine may be in the way.
The biggest problem I have is installing the tow brake control box, there aren't many empty spaces under the hood of modern cars.

Make sure to add a toad battery charger, powered by the LD, the CRVs have very small batteries and will die if towing for too long. The CRV's battery will power the towing brake.
RVi Towed Battery Charger Plus, charge line replacement for flat towing
TOAD-CHARGE Dinghy Vehicle Battery Charger/Maintainer

To isolate the toad's tail lights from the toad's electrical, I use diodes from Roadmaster. It's delicate work due to the small wiring used by Honda. I also suggest switching to LED bulbs for the brightest taillights.
https://www.etrailer.com/Accessories-and-Parts/Roadmaster/RM-790.html?feed=npn&msclkid=219ec104cb581b20b394a228402d848c&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Bing%20%7C%20Shop%20-%20Accessories%20and%20Parts&utm_term=4577610507259564&utm_content=General

Steve's suggestion to plan the wire runs before starting is a good one, the wires need to be secured and protected.
I wrap all the exposed wiring in split plastic tubing and secure them with zip-ties and clamps.
Amazon.com: Dorman 86663 3/8 In. X 10 Ft. Black Flex Split Wire Conduit :...
3/8' and 1/2" split plastic tubing are the most common sizes used.

Plan on a few days to complete this project, there is a lot to do.
Larry
Thanks Larry. I have always found your advice and experience very helpful. I am going to try the DIY route. It looks like etrailer.com has a great reputation for assisting the DIYer.
As an Amazon Associate Lazy Daze Owners' Group earns from qualifying purchases.
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #14 –
Our 2011 CR-V is set up exactly as Larry described above.

For us the work was completely done by a commercial trailer shop with the previous owner.

You might note the Honda’s mileage prior to your trip

With our Stay-in-Play turned on the mileage on our Honda does not record the flat down mileage. Just a thought for planning tire rotation, brake wear and transmission oil changes.

We have towed several Honda CR-V models many thousands of miles without issue.

Cheers !

Tony R (aka codefour)
Tony R
2010 LD RB - Sold to another happy LD Family
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #15 –
Had to get home to post this. I had a dummy key cut for towing.   The attached checklist is laminated and tied to the key. They live in the glove box.
It works well,  when I follow-thru with the RYFM process.
joel
Joel & Terry Wiley
dog Zeke
2013  31 IB   Orwan   / 2011 CRV Tow'd LWEROVE
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #16 –
To start with the dummy key, I have to push the 'real' key up against dummy when I turn it. In my case, orientation matters, or the sensor does not read the chip.

Steve
2004 FL
2013 Honda Fit
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #17 –
Quote from: Steve  - 
To start with the dummy key, I have to push the 'real' key up against dummy when I turn it. In my case, orientation matters, or the sensor does not read the chip.

Steve
Dummy key does not start the car.   It is there to put the system in accessory mode.  Not need to start it.
Not being able to start it is a design goal of my implementation.  ;)
Joel & Terry Wiley
dog Zeke
2013  31 IB   Orwan   / 2011 CRV Tow'd LWEROVE
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #18 –
Quote from: joel wiley  - 
Dummy key does not start the car.   It is there to put the system in accessory mode.  Not need to start it.
Not being able to start it is a design goal of my implementation.  ;)

The problem that might present itself is that the warm-up procedure wants to complete by turning off the engine in neutral, without passing thru reverse gear. If you do the warm-up procedure with a different key than you leave in the ignition, you will have to return to park to remove the one key before inserting the dummy, then pass thru reverse again to place it in neutral. This is counter to Honda's instructions, so I don't know if it could create a problem at some point.

You can use your dummy key the same way I do. If it has a chip inside, you will need to pry the casing open to remove the chip. Then, placing the real key against it while turning the dummy to 'ignition' should trip the 'key' function, and allow you to start the car. This is a one-time event. If the key is turned back to 'acc', it will not restart the car on its own.

Steve
2004 FL
2013 Honda Fit
 
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #19 –
Joel, look at the notice at the bottom of page 235 of your CR-V manual:

Steve
2004 FL
2013 Honda Fit
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #20 –
Quote from: Steve  - 
Joel, look at the notice at the bottom of page 235 of your CR-V manual:

Steve
This is implied in my checklist. But you have a good point.  That caveat should be in there, and will be in the next version.
Thanks
Joel & Terry Wiley
dog Zeke
2013  31 IB   Orwan   / 2011 CRV Tow'd LWEROVE
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #21 –
What is not clear to me from Honda's instructions is whether shifting from reverse-drive-neutral with the engine off accomplishes the same thing as with the engine running, as far as transmission gear position is concerned. Since the procedure is specified with engine running, with the real key in the ignition, I elected that the safest procedure is to follow it exactly - but using the dummy key.

Steve
2004 FL
2013 Honda Fit
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #22 –
I'm liking my Subaru more and more after reading all this.   Just sayin'!   ;)
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #23 –
Quote from: HiLola  - 
I'm liking my Subaru more and more after reading all this.   Just sayin'!   ;)
Manual Subaru. For our normal driver in L.A traffic, the choice of a manual was out for us, as for many of us in urban environments. Too bad, because opting manual does offer a lot more choices!

Steve
2004 FL
2013 Honda Fit
Re: Prepping my CR-V for flat towing
Reply #24 –
Another safety procedure we use prior to towing...IMO

With the Honda CR-V completely hooked up and you are sure that all of the procedures have been followed.....

......start your LD.....put in gear without pressing on the gas pedal (w/tow option if available) and if you are on fairly level ground with all brakes released the LD WILL almost always move your toad. 

If any gas pedal at all is required to start the RV rolling - we stop and recheck everything.

In almost 25 years of towing, I did forget to release the parking brake once or twice on the toad.....and no the RV did not move. 

Stay off of the gas pedal initially if not needed and it is unlikely you would damage anything if it is only momentary.

Just a thought from someone who has and will probably (mess up) again.

Cheers!

Tony R. (aka codefour)
Tony R
2010 LD RB - Sold to another happy LD Family