How Difficult is it to Install the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit on a 2014 Buick Enclave

Question:

I purchased the Blue ox base plate but I am reluctant to install it because of the procedure to get it ready to tow. Could you give me a step by step or tell me where I can find the info to tow it after its hooked up. I have seen where they say three fuses have to be pulled and a procedure has to be followed so you dont wreck the transmission. Thank you PS: if its to indeapth Ill buy another wrangler.

asked by: Rory T

Expert Reply:

To install the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BX1708 on your 2014 Buick Enclave you will need to remove the entire front fascia/grille but if you are comfortable working on vehicles you shouldn't have a problem with it. I have attached the written installation instructions to this answer page for you to reference. They are very detailed and include pictures as well.

I took a look at the online version of the owner's manual for your Enclave and it does mention removing 3 fuses before you flat tow but we have the FuseMaster Fuse Bypass Switches # RM-76517 and # RM76514 from Roadmaster that make disconnecting your fuses as easy as flipping a switch (literally).

From what I could see there is a series of steps that you need to take to prep your Enclave for flat towing on page 10-74 of the manual but it was pretty mild compared to other manuals that I have seen.

To complete your flat towing setup you also need a tow bar and safety cables as well as a braking system. Blue Ox bundles their cables with their tow bars so if you get the Blue Ox Alpha Tow Bar # BX7380 you get a whole kit that is rated for up to 6,500 lbs.

Then for a braking system I recommend the Air Force One # SM99243 if your motorhome has air brakes or the Stay-IN-Play DUO # SM99251 if it has hydraulic brakes. Both kits are great breaking systems and after the initial installation are extremely easy to switch over to tow mode.

Most flat towing setups also require a high-low adapter for the tow bar to remain level while towing. I have linked our selection of adapters for you to check out as well as an article that will help you determine which is the best one for your application.