Option for Base Plate for 2014 Jeep Wrangler with Aftermarket Bumper

Question:

I have a 2014 JKU with the Barricade Trail Trail Force HD bumper and Id like to be able to tow directly from the front D-ring tabs...Is there a Tow bar that will match up to this or do I have to get the baseplate? These tabs are 29 inches apart and have 1 inch holes through them.

asked by: Mike M

Expert Reply:

We don't have any way to attach a tow bar directly to your aftermarket bumper, but you may still be able to use the universal Blue Ox base plate kit part # BX88230 that will attach directly to the bumper.

In addition to the base plates, you will also need a compatible tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking to flat tow your vehicle. The most popular compatible tow bar is the Blue Ox Alpha # BX7380. These come with safety cables. The coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground.

For lighting you can use the diode kit, # RM-15267, and not have to worry about cutting into the taillight housing. This will splice into your taillight wiring to allow your tow vehicle to control the taillight assemblies of the towed vehicle. This comes with a round 6-way connector that you will install on the front of your towed vehicle and enough coiled wire to go from there to the RV.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking in the vehicle being flat towed. The easiest system to set up and use is the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR, that applies the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.

Most likely you will also need a high low adapter so that the tow bar will be level when you are flat towing. I attached a link to a page that has all of the ones we carry.

I have included a couple of helpful links to our articles on flat towing for you. Be sure to consult the vehicle owners manual for more specific information on flat towing your vehicle.