By Dustin Simpson
Join me “In The RV Shop” as I show you how to install the Roadmaster Tow Defender and explain what it does.
The Tow Defender’s all-weather, heavy-duty screen deflects rocks, gravel and road debris down and away, protecting your towed vehicle’s finish, headlights and windshield against chips and dings.
Installing the Tow Defender involves a straightforward process. Here are general steps to guide you:
Materials needed
- Roadmaster Tow Defender kit
- Wrenches
- Tape measure
- A metal marking pen
- Screwdriver or drill (if needed)
Verify Tow Defender compatibility
Ensure that the Roadmaster Tow Defender you have is compatible with your specific tow bar and towed vehicle.
Prepare the Tow Defender
Lay out the Tow Defender on a clean and flat surface. Familiarize yourself with the different components, including the screening material and support arms.
Measure and mark attachment points
Position the Tow Defender so that it will extend between the motorhome and the towed vehicle. Measure and mark the attachment points on the motorhome’s frame where you will connect the support arms.
Attach support arms to the motorhome
Use the provided hardware to attach the support arms to the previously marked points on the motorhome’s frame. Tighten the bolts securely, ensuring a stable connection.
Adjust the support arm height
Adjust the height of the support arms based on the height of your tow bar and the connection points on your towed vehicle. This helps ensure proper alignment of the Tow Defender.
Secure the arms to the tow bar
Attach the support arms to the tow bar using the provided hardware. Ensure that the connections are tight and secure.
Install the screening material
Attach the screening material to the support arms using the included fasteners. Ensure that the material is evenly distributed and taut.
Adjust for clearance
Adjust the Tow Defender to provide sufficient clearance between the motorhome and the towed vehicle. Ensure that the screening material is not too close to the towed vehicle to prevent damage.
Secure loose ends
Use any included straps or fasteners to secure loose ends of the screening material, ensuring that it is well-secured during travel.
Test the installation
Conduct a short test drive to ensure that the Tow Defender remains securely in place and that it provides effective protection for the towed vehicle.
Make adjustments, if necessary
If you notice any issues during the test drive, such as excessive movement or rubbing against the towed vehicle, make necessary adjustments to the Tow Defender’s height or positioning.
Regular inspection and maintenance
Periodically inspect the Roadmaster Tow Defender for signs of wear, loose connections, or damage. Perform any necessary maintenance to keep it in good condition.
Always refer to the specific instructions provided by Roadmaster for your Tow Defender model, as the installation steps may vary slightly depending on the design. If you encounter difficulties or are unsure about any steps, consider seeking assistance from your local RV dealership or repair shop, or contacting Roadmaster’s customer support for guidance.
More from Dustin
Make sure you check out my website, California RV Specialists, and our YouTube channel for more helpful information, and see our published articles on RVtravel.com and other social media pages.
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RVDT2811
“Measure and mark the attachment points on the motorhome’s frame where you will connect the support arms.
…
Use the provided hardware to attach the support arms to the previously marked points on the motorhome’s frame.”
I don’t get the above. I’ve had a Tow Defender for ten years (love it) and no part of it whatsoever is attached to the motorhome’s frame. It all attaches to the tow bar assembly.
Even the pics in the article show no frame attachment.
???
I have been using a Roadmaster Tow Defender for over 13 years. The installation instructions above are so far off that they appear to be from someone who has never installed one or is AI generated. To start with the Tow Defender does not attach to the Motorhome FRAME anywhere. The Roadmaster instructions are poor enough but they are better than these.