This article provides a comprehensive, step-by-step installation guide for the DEMCO Base Plate (Model 9518218) designed for the Chevrolet Captiva and Saturn Vue (2004–2013). The installation instructions are derived directly from the official DEMCO technical documentation and emphasize the importance of professional installation, adherence to safety protocols, and precise hardware specifications. This guide is intended for trained technicians and experienced DIY installers who are familiar with automotive bodywork and towing equipment.
Introduction
The DEMCO Base Plate is a critical component for safely towing vehicles such as the Chevrolet Captiva and Saturn Vue behind motorhomes or other towing vehicles. It serves as the mounting point for the tow bar and must be installed with precision to ensure proper alignment and structural integrity. The installation process involves removing portions of the vehicle’s front bumper assembly, cutting into the grill, and securing the base plate with high-grade bolts and fasteners. The documentation explicitly states that the base plate is intended for installation by professional installers with the proper tools and experience.
Given the potential risks associated with improper towing—such as loss of control, separation of the towed vehicle, or mechanical failure—DEMCO emphasizes the need for strict compliance with its instructions. The manual outlines specific bolt torque specifications, hardware requirements, and safety precautions to ensure the installation meets the necessary standards for safe operation.
This guide organizes the installation process into clearly defined steps, highlights hardware specifications, and addresses compatibility concerns for the specified model years. It also includes warranty information and safety warnings to inform users of their responsibilities during and after the installation.
Installation Overview
The DEMCO Base Plate is designed to integrate with the factory structure of the Chevrolet Captiva and Saturn Vue. It utilizes existing mounting points where possible and may require minor modifications, such as drilling or cutting, to accommodate the base plate. The installation is divided into multiple steps, each of which is illustrated or described in detail in the source documentation.
Key Installation Requirements
- Professional Installation: DEMCO explicitly recommends that only experienced professionals with appropriate tools and training perform the installation. This is due to the complexity of the task and the high safety standards required.
- Vehicle Inspection: If the vehicle has been involved in an accident, the chassis must be inspected for damage. Misaligned holes or weakened structures can compromise the installation.
- Hardware Specifications: All bolts must meet minimum grade requirements (SAE Grade 5 or Metric 8.8), and specific torque values must be followed to ensure secure fastening.
- Modification Considerations: Due to dimensional variations between vehicles, minor modifications such as drilling, cutting, or notching may be necessary to ensure a proper fit.
- Use of Loctite: All bolts must be treated with LOCTITE® Blue to prevent loosening during operation.
Step-by-Step Installation Instructions
The installation process is detailed in multiple steps, with some variations specific to the Chevrolet Captiva model. The following is a summary of the installation steps, with additional notes where necessary.
Step 1: Hood and Front Fascia Removal
- Open the vehicle’s hood.
- Remove twelve plastic push fasteners from the top of the grill and facia.
- Remove the plastic radiator cover.
- Remove one plastic push fastener from the top side of the bumper in the middle.
Step 2: Wheel Well Screws
- Remove two screws from each wheel well.
- This typically involves working on the inner fender liner to access the mounting points.
Step 3: Front Wheel Well Extension Screws
- Remove three screws from the bottom of the front wheel well extension.
- This step may require access to the underside of the front bumper area.
Note: Step 3a is specifically labeled for the Chevrolet Captiva model, indicating a model-specific modification may be required.
Step 4: Facia Removal
- Remove three bolts from the bottom side of the facia.
- Pull the facia out by the fender wheel well and slide it off the vehicle.
Note: Step 4a is again specific to the Captiva model and may involve additional considerations for the front bumper cover.
Step 5–19: Structural Modifications and Base Plate Preparation
These intermediate steps involve the removal of various components, including the bumper assembly, wiring harnesses, and structural supports. The documentation includes images showing the removal of fasteners and the notching or cutting of the bumper structure to accommodate the base plate.
Note: These steps are not detailed in the source material but are implied to involve disassembly of the bumper structure and preparation for base plate installation.
Step 20: Base Plate Installation
- Position the base plate against the bumper mount.
- Align the base plate holes with the bumper mount holes and clamp into place.
- Drill 5/16" holes into the bumper mount using the base plate as a template.
- Secure the base plate using two 8mm x 30mm bolts, lock washers, and 8mm nuts.
- Apply LOCTITE® Blue to all bolts.
- Install the bumper assembly over the base plate and secure it using eight 8mm x 30mm bolts, lock washers, and flat washers.
- Reinstall the remaining bumper assembly fasteners and wire holders.
Step 21: Grill Modification
- Cut the bottom of the grill opening to allow the base plate to pass through.
- This step is clearly shown in the provided image and must be executed carefully to avoid damaging surrounding components.
Step 22: Facia Reinstallation
- Reinstall the facia and all previously removed hardware.
- Ensure that all components are properly aligned and secured.
Step 23: Plug Mount Installation (Optional)
- If desired, install the plug mount (item #14) into the convenience holes on the chain anchor or other designated areas.
- Excess material on the bracket may be trimmed as necessary.
Hardware and Torque Specifications
The base plate is secured using a combination of standard and metric bolts, each with specific torque requirements. These specifications are critical to ensure the structural integrity of the installation.
| Bolt Size | Grade | Torque |
|---|---|---|
| 5/16" | 5 | 20 ft/lbs. |
| 3/8" | 5 | 35 ft/lbs. |
| 7/16" | 5 | 56 ft/lbs. |
| 1/2" | 5 | 85 ft/lbs. |
| Metric Size | Torque |
|---|---|
| 8mm | 22 ft/lbs. |
| 10mm | 42 ft/lbs. |
| 12mm | 70 ft/lbs. |
| 14mm | 95 ft/lbs. |
These torque values should be applied using a calibrated torque wrench to avoid over-tightening or under-tightening, which could compromise the installation.
Parts List
The DEMCO Base Plate kit includes a variety of hardware and components to support the installation. The following is a summary of the parts included in the kit:
| Ref. No. | Part No. | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 00059 | 2 | 3/8" Flat Washer |
| 2 | 00060 | 12 | 3/8" Lock Washer |
| 3 | 00061 | 12 | 3/8" NC Hex Nut |
| 4 | 00523 | 8 | 3/8" x 1-1/4" Hex Bolt Gr. 5 |
| 5 | 00908 | 4 | 3/8" x 1-3/4" Hex Bolt Gr. 5 |
| 6 | 04179 | 10 | 8mm x 30mm Hex Bolt Gr. 8.8 |
| 7 | 07286 | 10 | 8mm Lock Washer |
| 8 | 07442 | 8 | 8mm Flat Washer |
| 9 | 09032 | 2 | 8mm Hex Nut |
| 10 | 12979 | 1 | Pull Ear Cover |
| 11 | 12980 | 1 | Pull Ear Cover |
| 12 | 13084-35 | 1 | Base Plate Crossmember |
| 13 | 13244-35 | 2 | Rear Sandwich Plate |
| 14 | 14555-35 | 2 | Front Sandwich Plate |
| 15 | 5937 | 1 | Plug Mount Kit |
| 16 | 12329 | 3 | Loctite (not shown) |
| - | NHT11 | 2 | Nylon Zip Ties (not shown) |
All parts should be verified before installation. If any components are missing or damaged, replacement parts should be ordered using the part number and description provided.
Safety Information
DEMCO provides several safety warnings and cautions to ensure the installation is performed correctly and the vehicle is towed safely.
Warnings
- Failure to follow these instructions can result in loss of control of the towing vehicle, separation of the tow bar, or the towed vehicle from the tow bar. This can lead to severe personal injury, death, or property damage.
- Do not assume that the existing bolts on the vehicle are adequate for mounting the base plate. Always verify the length and condition of the bolts.
- If the vehicle has been involved in an accident, inspect the chassis for damage before proceeding with installation.
Cautions
- Ensure that all lights are in working order before towing.
- Use only SAE Grade 5 or Metric 8.8 bolts as specified.
- Apply LOCTITE® Blue to all bolts to prevent loosening.
- Cut or modify the bumper structure only as necessary to accommodate the base plate. Avoid unnecessary damage to the vehicle.
Compatibility and Towing Considerations
DEMCO provides guidance on the towing capabilities of the Chevrolet Captiva and Saturn Vue. It is important to note that not all vehicles are suitable for flat towing, and some may require additional modifications or equipment.
- Automatic Transmission: If the vehicle has an automatic transmission, it must be verified whether it can be towed with the drive shaft connected. Otherwise, it may require a transmission pump or drive shaft disconnect.
- Towability Guide: MotorHome® Magazine compiles an annual list of vehicles approved for flat towing. However, DEMCO does not guarantee the accuracy of this list and recommends consulting the vehicle’s owner’s manual for official towing instructions.
- Speed and Distance Limits: Some vehicles may have towing speed or distance limitations. These should be respected, as exceeding them may require modifications to make the vehicle towable.
- Availability of Aftermarket Products: The availability of a DEMCO Base Plate does not imply that the vehicle can be modified to be towable. Always consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual or a qualified technician before proceeding.
Warranty Information
DEMCO provides a limited warranty for its base plate product, which is valid for one year from the date of purchase by the original retail owner.
Coverage
- Defects in Materials and Workmanship: The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service.
- Replacement Options: The manufacturer may choose to repair or replace any defective part at no charge to the original owner.
- Return and Exchange: If a part is found to be defective, the owner may be required to return it to the manufacturer or an authorized dealer for repair or replacement.
Exclusions
- Normal Wear and Tear: The warranty does not cover damage from normal use or wear.
- Rust and Paint Damage: Damage from road debris or rust is not covered.
- Misuse or Neglect: The warranty is void if the product is misassembled, neglected, or used in a manner inconsistent with the instructions.
Claim Process
- Warranty Card: The customer warranty card must be returned within 30 days of purchase for warranty coverage to be valid.
- Proof of Purchase: A copy of the original invoice must accompany any warranty claim.
- Non-Transferable: The warranty is limited to the original owner and is not transferable to a second party.
Conclusion
The DEMCO Base Plate for the Chevrolet Captiva and Saturn Vue (2004–2013) is a specialized component that enables safe and secure towing of these vehicles. The installation process is complex and requires professional expertise due to the involvement of structural modifications, precise hardware specifications, and strict safety protocols. Users must carefully follow the provided instructions, ensure the use of high-grade bolts and fasteners, and apply LOCTITE® Blue to prevent loosening.
Compatibility with the vehicle’s towing capabilities must be verified before installation, and any limitations—such as speed or distance—must be respected. The warranty information provided by DEMCO emphasizes the importance of proper installation and adherence to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
By following this guide, installers can ensure that the base plate is correctly installed and that the vehicle is prepared for safe towing. The final step in the process is a thorough inspection of all components to verify that the installation meets the required standards for performance and safety.