Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 1997 Jeep Wrangler Behind an RV Using a Ready Brute Elite Tow Bar

Question:

I have a 1997 Jeep TJ Sahara edition. The vehicle originally had P225/75R15 tires with an overall diameter of 28.3 inches. I have installed Yokohama Geolandar A/T-S - 31X10.50R15 tires. These tires have an overall diameter of 30.5 inches. The center of the receiver hitch on my motorhome is 15.5 inches from the ground. I am trying to decide which baseplate would work best to fit the 15.5 height of the receiver without having to add a receiver or rise. I plan on using the Ready Brute Elite Tow Bar with ReadyBrake Integrated. My question is, “Which baseplate would position the tow bar the closest to the 15.5-inch height I need. The Blue Ox Baseplate part number BX1118 states in the manufacture’s literature that the “Tab Height” is 15 inches. I am assuming that this is with OEM tires. Since my tires are slightly over 2 inches larger in diameter, the ride height of my towed vehicle would be approximately one inch higher then a stock vehicle. I am assuming that the “Tab Height” would also be one inch higher 16 inches. This would be near perfect for my hitch height. However, when I measure down from the bottom of the jeep bumper OEM U-Channel bumper to the ground I get 19 inches. Are the tabs on the Blue OX base plate 3 inches below the bottom of the Bumper? I can’t tell by looking at the pictures. I have also looked at the Roadmaster baseplate part number 1424-1. I can’t find any information about the “Tab Height” on this baseplate, but the photos seem to show that the tabs are at least an inch or two below the bottom of the bumper. Any information you have would be appreciated Thanks

asked by: Larry H

Helpful Expert Reply:

First, the Blue Ox base plates for your 1997 Jeep Wrangler with factory U-Channel bumper, # BX1118, do mount below the bumper. The measurement of 15 inches you mentioned is from the ground to the center of the tabs which is the part that attaches to the tow bar. This is assuming stock tire sizes. So you would add half the height difference to bring it to 16 inches so you are correct there.

The height difference between the center of the receiver opening on the RV and the center of the tabs needs to be no greater than 3 inches. Since you are only off by 1 inch you would not need to use any sort of adapter. Our installers have said the Blue Ox base plates are easier to install though so I recommend them.

In order to use the Ready Brute Elite tow bar with the Blue Ox base plates you will also need to use adapter # BX88297.

If you don't already have safety cables I recommend # BX88197. The coiled design helps keep these 10K-rated cables off he ground.

For a light kit I recommend the bulb and socket kit # RM-155 because it bypasses the vehicle wiring and is one of the easier lighting installations. I have included a link to a video showing an example installation for you.

You already have a braking system with the tow bar so with all of the above parts you will be good to go. Be sure to consult your vehicle owners manual for specific information on flat towing the vehicle. I have also included some helpful links to our series of help articles on flat towing for you.