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  1. Tow Bar Base Plate
  2. Blue Ox
  3. Removable Draw Bars
  4. Twist Lock Attachment
  5. Completely Hidden
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2012 Chevrolet Express Van
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Blue Ox

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

Part Number: BX2232
In Stock
$592.85
Retail:$609.01
You Save: $16.16
Tow Bar Base Plate
Not Confirmed to Fit

2012 Chevrolet Express Van

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Custom designed to fit your vehicle so it can be safely towed behind your RV, this base plate has easily removable arms that offer a seamless look when you're not flat towing. Base plate bolts directly to your chassis, so no welding is required. Great Prices for the best tow bar base plate from Blue Ox. Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms part number BX2232 can be ordered online at etrailer.com or call 1-800-940-8924 for expert service.
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Blue Ox Tow Bar Base Plate - BX2232

Highlights

  • Custom Fit for Your Vehicle: Mounts to existing attachment points
  • Ready for Flat Towing: Provides secure attachment points so you can safely tow your vehicle behind your RV.
  • Blends In When Not Towing: Hidden design with twist-off arms keeps the front end clean and seamless.
  • Quick Arm Removal: Twist-lock system lets you attach or remove arms in seconds without tools.
  • Built to Last: Durable, powder-coated steel resists rust and corrosion for long-term use.
  • Distributes Towing Force Evenly: Bolts directly to the chassis to help prevent stress on suspension parts.
Made in USA

Features to know about

Made for a Clean Front End: Hidden Base Plate with Removable Arms

If you like a clean, factory-style look when you’re not towing, this design keeps things neat. The Blue Ox removable arms twist out easily, leaving the base plate nearly invisible behind the bumper. Receiver covers plug into the sockets to keep dirt and debris out, so everything stays clean and ready for your next trip.

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit shown on vehicle with removable arms detached revealing hidden design

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit installed on vehicle with removable arms attached for flat towing setup

Hook Up Fast and Hassle-Free: Twist-Lock, Pin-Secure Arms

Connecting the tow bar is simple with the twist-lock system. Just insert each arm into the receiver, rotate until it locks, and secure it with the pin. When it’s time to unhook, pull the pin, twist, and remove. It’s a quick process that makes solo hookups or campsite departures smooth and stress-free.

Close-up of Blue Ox Base Plate removable arms demonstrating twist-lock attachment mechanism

Built to Handle the Miles: Durable Steel Construction

This base plate bolts directly to the chassis with no welding required. The sturdy steel design spreads towing forces evenly to help protect suspension components during long-distance hauls. The powder-coated finish resists rust and corrosion for dependable use through miles of weather and road conditions.

Works with Your Existing Setup: Broad Tow Bar Compatibility

Whether you’re already running Blue Ox gear or using another brand, this base plate connects easily. It pairs directly with Blue Ox tow bars for a reliable fit and can adapt for use with Roadmaster tow bars (RM-031 or RM-031-5) or Demco tow bars (DM9523041), each sold separately. Integrated mounting points make it easy to attach an electrical connector plug bracket so your wiring stays organized up front.

DIY-Ready Install: Bolt-On Design with Clear Fitment

For those who like doing their own setup, this kit is straightforward to install. It bolts securely to the chassis using included hardware—no welding needed—and includes receiver covers for a finished look once everything’s in place. Specs are dialed in for planning your setup: distance between brackets is 24" and bracket height is 23". It’s a solid, weekend-ready project that leaves your front end looking sharp when the arms are off.

Towing basics diagram showing tow bar, base plate, safety cables, wiring, and braking system for flat towing overview

Specs

Dimensions

  • Distance between brackets: 24"
  • Bracket height: 23"

Warranty

  • Warranty period: 3-Year warranty

BX2232 Blue Ox Baseplate - Removable Tabs

Installation Details BX2232 Installation instructions

This Product Fits The Following Vehicles




Customer Satisfaction Score:

Ratings & Reviews

4.8

5143 reviews
5 Stars
(4432)
4 Stars
(493)
3 Stars
(103)
2 Stars
(46)
1 Star
(69)
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Custom designed to fit your vehicle so it can be safely towed behind your RV, this base plate has easily removable arms that offer a seamless look when you're not flat towing. Base plate bolts directly to your chassis, so no welding is required.

by:

This was an easy install and met every expectation I had. We are full-time RV travelers and generally move/tow every couple weeks for a year now with no problems. Great product.



by:

Great customer service



by:

Product received in a timely manner and in good condition. Product perfectly for my auto and looks great.

Moose profile picture

Moose

11/27/2013

i have a 2007 honda element sc,i purchased a blue ox bx 2232 baseplate and wanna know why all the sites show no baseplate for the sc model?will this baseplate work on my sc if not can you tell me why and what baseplate i need if so.thank youmoose

Patrick B. profile picture

Patrick B.

12/2/2013

According to Blue Ox, the BX2232 fits all Element with the exception of the SC models. The front fascia headlights and bumper cover are different on the SC models and it will not accommodate the Blue Ox base plates. The BX2232 has the detachamble tabs up higher than does Roadmaster, which is why the Roadmaster kits will work but the Blue Ox will not. Check out 1541-5 and 1541-3 from Roadmaster.


by:

I recommend this company. Excellent customer service.



by:

Fairly easy install and the videos help ed.



by:

Base plate was just as describbed to fit my '07 Honda Element. Best pricing was found on this site. Thank you!



by:

Perfect fit, had to drill extra holes into car frame as per instructions. Otherwise worked flawlessly.



by:

Easy to install with normal hand tools and minimal mechanical talent.



by:

Great instructions for installation.



by:

Just install baseplate yesterday and took 4 hrs and came out
perfect... just follow instructions..



by:

This fit well and is barely perceptible with the arms removed. It does require some custom drilling on the Honda CRV frame so it is not for a beginner, but it is nicely designed and quite strong.



by:

The product appears to be well made and strong. I have not yet fitted it to my Honda, but I will be very surprised if it does not fit. The instructions are detailed with good photos.



by:

I bought this and installed myself on my Honda element. Instructions were easy to follow and I have towed my car over 3k miles and has worked perfectly. . Great quality product.



by:

Base plate was received the day Cathy said it would,easy installation. Will be a repeat customer. Excellent, Excellent, Excellent, experience



by:

I bought this base plate for a 2008 Honda Element. Fit was great. Some grinding and drilling required. Instructions were good. It took me 2.5 hours to install. If you don't have a shop with lift and plenty of tools install time will be longer.



by:

Used this base plate with my 2004 Honda Element to tow it behind my RV to see 41 National Parks in 6 months…1 year after purchase and it’s still holding up strong, no issues.



by:

Bought this on sale and saved $150. etrailer always has what I’m looking for, and has great info and installation videos. Shipping was free and much faster than expected. Very happy with my purchase.



by:

Everything I have purchased from etrailer has been perfect, good quality, price and fast shipping. Way to go etrailer, Please continue to strive for the BEST.



by:

2nd trailer tow hitch in 2 years and both were great; from the order,the delivery schedule and great product ill order from them again.

Merlin profile picture

Merlin

1/11/2021

My hitches are working out great, I made a 5000+miles trip to Montana and back and had no problems!



by:

Product was as described and fit perfectly. The directions were very good and between them and the video at etrailer, I had no problems installing the base plate.

Ken S. profile picture

Ken S.

3/5/2017

Have used on numerous trips and its been working fine



by:

Baseplate Installation: I called several RV and trailer hitch centers. Parts and installation ranged from $2,050 to $2,200! Yikes! I read many installation reviews that concerned me about installing this tow bar myself on my 2003 Honda CRV. One reviewer took over 7 hours; some gave up. Yet, some reviewer didn't have difficulties. I view eTrailer's install video on a 2003 Honda Element, similar to the CRV; didn't seem all that difficult, but it's what you don't see that can be the problem.
Received the tow bar before the expected delivery date! Read the instruction; watch the video again, and said, what the heck. Before I started, I purchased a new, high-quality 13/32" bit, Locktite (red), and six push rivets from Honda (I figured I break a few, and I did, and some were missing). Working slowly and reading the instructions, I had the front end off in 45 min (Steps 1-4). Removed the metal bumper, drilled and set frame support bolts, and removed the bumper flange in an hour (Steps 5-8). I did grind smooth and primer the removed flange area (photo). My 86 y.o. father-in-law help me with the baseplate attachment. Took our time; did a dry fit to see how the receivers fit through the grill; drilled, set bolts, and safety cable; all in less than an hour (Steps 9-11). I stood back and couldn't believe it was installed; what did I miss? Nothing. Reassembled the front end. Didn't have to cut the grill. I am most pleased.

Rebecca O. profile picture

Rebecca O.

7/16/2016

Perfectly!



by:

Perfect order as always. :). Thanks Nat han



by:

This product works perfectly and was an easy install



by:

Well built product. When out of stock it takes about 30 days to arrive. Well packaged and included bracket-to-toad safety cables, mounting hardware, and removable adapters.



by:

2009 Honda Element. Did installation myself took 2 hours. Buy new 13/16th drill bits. Use vise grips to hold in place while drilling. Be sure to use Locktite red on bolts. I also installed the wiring kit for this vehicle. I added an extra wire from RV braking light in center of RV back to braking light in Element back window. My bicycles block tail lights on Element. I used the six wire kit that came with coiled cord and two recepticals. Used lots of zip ties to secure wires along frame.


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See what our Experts say about this Blue Ox Tow Bar Base Plate

  • Flat Towing Set Up For A 2007 Honda Element EX
    Hi George! I can definitely get you a full flat towing set up for your 2007 Honda Element EX. Almost everything I have included below is Roadmaster as they make some of the best flat towing parts on the market, but I did throw in our own tow bar. It's quite a bit less expensive and will handle everything fine. Plus it includes the safety cables. Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # 1541-5 etrailer SD Non-Binding Tow Bar for Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plates...
    view full answer...
  • Flat Towing Base Plates and Wiring for 2002 Honda CR-V
    From what I was able to find in my research, the 2002 Honda CR-V can be flat towed. I would recommend checking your copy of the owner's manual to verify this. It sounds like you've already got a Blue Ox tow bar, so you're going to be best served by using Blue Ox base plates like the Base Plate Kit with Removable Arms # BX2232; this just means you won't need to use an adapter to connect to the tow bar as you would if using a different manufacturer's base plates with your tow bar. For...
    view full answer...
  • Need Base Plate And Flat Tow Parts For 2004 Honda Element
    Hello Ron, thanks for getting in touch. Yes, we do carry the Blue Ox Base Plate # BX2232 which is the correct fit for your 2004 Honda Element. This base plate is directly compatible with other Blue Ox brand tow bars. It can be adapter to other brands of tow bar if needed. Roadmaster tow bars require the adapter part # RM-031, and Demco tow bars need the # DM9523041 adapter. If you already have a tow bar, let me know which one you have an I can confirm the correct adapter. If you still need...
    view full answer...
  • What Size Screw Does Blue Ox Base Plate Kit Use for Wiring Connector
    Hey John, Blue Ox has told us that the rods for the wiring connectors that are on the front of their base plate kits like the # BX2232 aren't actually threaded and are designed to have self tapping screws used to attach the connector. The recommended size is 2 #12-14 x 1”. Did your base plate kit come with these screws already?
    view full answer...
  • Flat Tow Setup for 2003 Honda Element With NSA Tow Bar
    Hey Steve! We don't have a kit but I can put the parts together for you. Do you already have the tow bar or are you looking for an NSA one through us? We have tow bars like the Roadmaster Falcon 2 # RM-520 but NSA isn't a brand we carry. You will also need a base plate kit, wiring, and a supplemental brake system if you don't have the NSA one already. I recommend the following: -Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # 1541-5 -Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit...
    view full answer...
  • Base Plate To Attach A 2003 Honda CR-V To A Blue Ox Tow Bar
    Hi Lawrence! Since you already have a Blue Ox tow bar, you will want to go with a Blue Ox base plate. For that, you will want the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # BX2232. I included an install video we did with this base plate on an '02 CR-V for you to check out as well. It will be the same on your '03. Do you have the rest of the needed parts to get your '03 CR-V set up for flat towing?
    view full answer...
  • Will The Blue Ox Alladin BX4325 Tow Bar Fit The BX2232 Base Plate?
    Hello Fred. Yes, the Blue Ox Alladin Tow bar BX4325 will indeed work with the Blue Ox # BX2232 Base Plate. The Alladin tow bar is an older model that is no longer available, but Blue Ox still uses the same design for the clevis, so it will work with any Blue Ox brand base plate.
    view full answer...
  • Lock Pins that Fit Blue Ox Base Plate and Tow Bar
    We have a lock kit that works with Blue Ox tow bars and base plate kits like what you have with the part # BX88359. This will replace the pins of the # BX7420 and lock it to your base plate kit part # BX2232.
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Flat Towing Set Up for a 2003 Honda Element
    Since your 2019 Tiffin Bus 37AP already has the air brakes set up for flat towing you will need the SMI Second Vehicle Kit for Air Force One Supplemental Braking Systems item # SM99209 and the SMI Air Force One Coiled Air Jumper Kit for Spartan Chassis item # SM6296. The Blue Ox Aventa is an older model tow bar that is obsolete and we no longer carry plus it is way overrated for a Honda Element. A better option would be the Blue Ox Alpha 2 Non-Binding Tow Bar item # BX7380. This tow bar...
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Flat Tow Set-up For 2003 Honda CR-V
    To make your baseplates work with your Roadmaster 5250 Falcon tow bar, you need to determine what base plates you have you have on your 2003 Honda CR-V. We have the Roadmaster XL style # 1541-1, the Roadmaster MX # 1541-5, or the Blue Ox # BX2232. The Roadmaster baseplates will work with no adapter needed but you may want the Roadmaster Quick Disconnect Tow Bar Base Assembly # 910021-00. If you have Blue Ox baseplates, you will need the Roadmaster Tow Bar to Blue Ox Brackets Adapter...
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed To Flat Tow a 2002 Honda CR-V To Transfer Vehicle for Service
    Yes, you can flat tow your 2002 Honda CR-V behind your F-150 using either the Blue Ox Acclaim Non-Binding Tow Bar # BX4330 or the Blue Ox Adventurer Adjustable Tow Bar # BX7322. You will need the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BX2232 to give yourself the attachment points needed for connecting the tow bars. You will want to also check your local laws to verify if you are going to need a Braking System # HM39494 due to the weight of your CR-V. This would also help to reduce wear and tear on...
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Flat-Tow Setup For 2003 Honda Element Being Towed By 2014 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
    While we do not offer a flat-towing kit for your 2003 Honda Element, I would be happy to recommend all of the parts you will need to safely flat-tow it with your 2014 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Motorhome. First you will need a custom fit base plate kit, I recommend the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BX2232 which will blend in pretty well to the grille with the arms removed as you can see in the included picture. Moving on to a tow bar compatible with the Blue Ox # BX2232 I recommend the Blue Ox...
    view full answer...
  • Why Are There Different Blue Ox Base Plate Fits for 2002 to 2006 Honda CR-V
    Hey Gary, so the difference between the two Blue Ox part numbers you mentioned is the Honda CR-V year range they fit. The part # BX2238 fits 2005 to 2006 models and the part # BX2232 fits 2002 to 2004. While technically the same generation there were quite a few exterior changes made in 2005 to the CR-V which is why they new part number had to be came up with. Believe me, if Blue Ox could have gotten away without having to redesign the CR-V fit they would have as it costs them a lot of money.
    view full answer...
  • What Blue Ox Base Plate fits a 2006 Honda CR-V
    We have exactly what you need to flat tow your 2006 Honda CR-V but unfortunately The Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms part # BX2232 you referenced will not fit onto a 2006 Honda CR-V. It was designed for use on the 2002-2004 model years. Instead you will use Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms part # BX2238. This is a custom fit base plate specifically designed for your CR-V and comes with all of the necessary hardware to get it installed. I've linked a photo of it installed.
    view full answer...
    Image 1 for
  • Base Plates and Equipment Needed to Flat Tow Honda Element 2003 EX Behind Motorhome
    I looked up an online copy of your owner's manual and confirmed that your vehicle can indeed be flat towed, at speeds up to but not exceeding 65mph. Honda lists very specific steps that must be taken before manual or automatic transmission equipped vehicles are flat towed. This information begins on page 198 of the manual. For your vehicle, I like the Blue Ox base plates a bit better. After looking at the installation instructions, I'd recommend the Blue Ox baseplate # BX2232 because the...
    view full answer...
  • Do I Need Supplemental Braking for my 2003 Honda CR-V When Flat Towing
    The answer to your main question here is-yes. Most states and provinces require the use of a supplemental braking system when flat towing a vehicle like your 2003 Honda CR-V. A good cost effective system that will provide you with proportional braking for your dinghy is the Brake Buddy Stealth Supplemental Braking System - Proportional # HM39530. This is a permanently installed system, so it installs away from view and there's no setup needed each time you're looking to get on the road....
    view full answer...
  • Correct Blue Ox Base Plate Kit for a 2004 Honda CR-V
    It sounds like you might be looking for a Blue Ox Base Plate Kit for a 2004 Honda CR-V and if that's the case we have just what you need in the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit part # BX2232 which will work great with a tow bar like the Blue Ox Ascent Non-Binding Tow Bar part # BX4370. In order to complete your setup you'll just need a few other items like the Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit part # RM-15267 and Brake Buddy Select 3 Portable Supplemental Braking System part...
    view full answer...
  • Correct etrailer Tow Bar to Fit with Blue Ox Base Plate Kit on 2005 Honda Element
    The correct etrailer tow bar for your 2005 Honda Element with the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BX2232 is part # e47ZR. The part # e74ZR you were looking at comes with adapters to fit with the Roadmaster Direct-Connect base plates. These 2 tow bars are literally the same tow bar just with different adapters at the end. Attached are some videos for you to check out. For a complete flat towing setup you will need a base plate kit, tow bar, safety cables, vehicle tow bar wiring, a supplemental...
    view full answer...
  • Blue Ox Tow Bar Base Plates and Wiring for 2011 Honda Element
    If your Element is not an SC model, you would use the BX2232 base plate kit. Neither Blue Ox nor Roadmaster offer a base plate kit for the 2011 Honda Element SC. The Blue Ox Alpha, part # BX7380 would be a great choice for you. The Alpha includes safety cables, is self aligning and will easily fold up against the rear of the motor home when not in use. To wire your vehicle so its tail lights work in tandem with the RV, you would need a Coiled Electrical Cord and Plugs, part # BX8861 and...
    view full answer...
  • Are Safety Cables from the Base Plate Kit to the Vehicle Frame Required for a 2003 Honda Element
    The safety cables you referenced are required and actually included with the Blue Ox Base Plate kit part # BX2232, so you would not need to pick them out separately. Next, you will need a tow bar. For that I would go with the Blue Ox Alpha Tow Bar # BX7380 as it is the most popular tow bar we have with other Element owners. These come with safety cables. For lighting you can use the diode kit, # RM-15267, and not have to worry about cutting into the taillight housing. This will splice...
    view full answer...
  • Can I Use the Blue Ox Acclaim Tow Bar with the Blue Ox 2232 Base Plates for 2003 Honda CR-V
    Yes. You can use the Blue Ox Acclaim # BX4330 with the Blue Ox # BX2232 base plates on your 2003 Honda CR-V. It is important that the tow bar coupler be parallel to the ground. The height from the center of the ball to the centerline of the attachment tabs should be approximately 7”. If the tow bar coupler is at an angle, an accident or damage can occur. The use of a drop/rise receiver is recommended to ensure the coupler stays parallel to the ground.
    view full answer...
  • Base Plates for 2010 Honda Element EX That Are Compatible with Ready Brute Elite Tow Bar
    The base plate I recommend for your 2010 Honda Element EX is the Blue Ox # BX2232. Our installers tend to prefer Blue Ox for their user-friendly features. Installation on a 2010 Element will require removal/replacement of the bumper fascia, some trimming of the bumper and minor drilling. You can use your Ready Brute Elite tow bar with these base plates by using the Blue Ox Base Plate Adapter Brackets for Ready Brute Elite Tow Bars, part # BX88297. If you need safety cables I suggest...
    view full answer...
  • Comparison of Base Plate Kit for 2003 Honda CR-V
    The Blue Ox Base Plate Kit, # BX2232 and the Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit, # 1541-1 are each rather easy and comparable to install. You can not make a wrong decision with either for install ease or quality of product. Consider what tow bar you will use and keep with brand is my suggestion. I like the Roadmaster Sterling All Terrain, Non-Binding Tow Bar, # RM-576 for its lightweight and aluminum construction and that it comes with cables and wiring. It has a latch design...
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2002 Honda CR-V Behind a Motor Home
    The Blue Ox base plates, # BX2238, do not fit the 2002 Honda CR-V. They are designed for the 2005 to 2006 CR-V. For a 2002 you would use # BX2232. Instructions do come with the base plates and I will also send you a copy of them. We do not yet have a video showing installation. In addition to the base plates you will also need a compatible tow bar like the Blue Ox Avail, # BX7420. I usually recommend this tow bar because it is versatile and it comes with another part you will need, safety...
    view full answer...


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