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  1. Tow Bar Base Plate
  2. Blue Ox
  3. Removable Draw Bars
  4. Twist Lock Attachment
  5. Partially Hidden
THIS ITEM IS NOT A FIT FOR
2016 Keystone Springdale Travel Trailer
Blue Ox

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

Part Number: BLU53FR
In Stock
ChristmasTree SantaHat Arrives before Christmas SantaHat ChristmasTree
$609.00
Tow Bar Base Plate
Not Confirmed to Fit

2016 Keystone Springdale Travel Trailer

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Custom designed to fit your vehicle so it can be safely towed behind your RV. Removable arms help maintain a more subtle appearance 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 BLU53FR 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 - BLU53FR

  • Blue Ox
  • Removable Draw Bars
  • Twist Lock Attachment
  • Partially Hidden

Custom designed to fit your vehicle so it can be safely towed behind your RV. Removable arms help maintain a more subtle appearance when you're not flat towing. Base plate bolts directly to your chassis, so no welding is required.


Features:

  • Custom-fit base plate provides attachment points for your tow bar when flat towing
  • Low-profile design helps maintain a subtle appearance
    • Arms remove with a simple twist when not in use
    • Brackets won't protrude past the front of your vehicle
  • Sturdy design spreads towing force evenly to prevent stress on your vehicle's suspension
  • Integrated mounting points let you easily attach an electrical connector plug with bracket (sold separately)
  • Receiver covers keep dirt and debris out of the base plate when arms are removed and provide a finished look
  • Durable steel construction is powder coated to resist rust and corrosion
  • Straightforward installation - no welding required
    • Base plate bolts securely to your vehicle's chassis with included mounting hardware
  • Sturdy lugs pair with Blue Ox tow bars to form a secure and reliable connection
    • Adaptable for use with Roadmaster tow bars - adapter (RM-031 or RM-031-5) sold separately
    • Adaptable for use with Demco tow bars - adapter (DM9523041) sold separately
  • Made in the USA


Specs:

  • Distance between brackets: 24"
  • Bracket height: 17-1/4"
  • 3-Year warranty


Low-profile Design

Blue Ox Base Plate With Arms AttachedBlue Ox Base Plate Arms Removed

This base plate installs low on your vehicle's frame for a more subtle appearance. The removable arms help maintain that streamlined look when youre not flat towing. And because the arms can be removed, you also won't have to worry about banging your leg into any protruding arms when you walk by.


Blue Ox Base Plate Removable Arms

Attaching and removing the bracket arms is a breeze. To attach the arms to the base plate, simply insert them into the receivers and rotate them until they lock into place. Once you're finished towing and want to remove the arms, pull the pin to disengage the lock, rotate the arms, and remove them from the receivers. Finally, plug up the now empty receivers with the included receiver covers to help keep dirt and debris out of the base plate and provide a finished look.


Guide to Flat Towing

Flat towing your vehicle is much more convenient than using a trailer or a tow dolly. These other options take up much more storage space, leaving you less room both at home and at the campsite. In addition, securing your vehicle to a trailer or tow dolly can be a hassle and more time consuming than hooking up with a tow bar.


There are 5 basic components needed when flat towing a vehicle: a tow bar, a base plate kit, a safety cable set, tow bar wiring, and a supplemental braking system.


Towing Basics

The tow bar links your towed car to your motorhome. It attaches to the custom-fit base plates that install on the frame of your towed car. Safety cables ensure that your towed car does not separate from your motorhome in the event that your tow bar becomes detached. Tow bar wiring allows your towed vehicle's signal lights to sync up with your motorhome's tail lights, which is required by law in most states. Finally, the supplemental braking system - also required in most states - brakes your towed car when the brakes in your motorhome are activated, preventing wear on the motorhome and decreasing braking distance for your entire setup.



BX1145 Blue Ox Baseplate - Removable Tabs

Replaces BX1142

Installation Details BLU53FR Installation instructions

This Product Fits The Following Vehicles



California residents: click here


Customer Satisfaction Score:

Ratings & Reviews

4.8

3601 reviews
5 Stars
(3094)
4 Stars
(365)
3 Stars
(75)
2 Stars
(30)
1 Star
(37)
Custom designed to fit your vehicle so it can be safely towed behind your RV. Removable arms help maintain a more subtle appearance when you're not flat towing. Base plate bolts directly to your chassis, so no welding is required.

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Show More Reviews

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

  • Blue Ox Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2022 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon
    Hey Mark, so the correct Blue Ox base plate kit to use with the Blue Ox Ascent tow bar part # BX4375. is the part # BLU53FR. For lighting you can use # C96JR, and not have to worry about cutting into the taillight housing as this plugs inline with the taillight connectors. Then for the braking system the Air Force One part # SM99243 would be what you would want and you'd be set.
    view full answer...
  • Blue Ox Baseplate Kit to Flat Tow a 2020 Jeep Gladiator
    Blue Ox does have a base plate kit that fits your 2020 Jeep Gladiator, it's part # BLU53FR. For a tow bar use the Blue Ox Alpha 2 # BX7380. If you don't have safety cables use # RM-643 for a set that's coiled. This way they don't drag on the ground. You also need wiring and a braking system to flat tow the Jeep. I recommend the diode kit # RM-15267 and Stay-IN-Play DUO # SM99251. Both get installed onto the Gladiator so you don't need to set them up each time you're ready to tow and...
    view full answer...
  • Flat Towing Components Needed For A 2024 Jeep Gladiator
    Hey Mark, I can definitely get you the rest of your flat towing components for the Gladiator. It looks like you have the Roadmaster Falcon All-Terrain Tow Bar # RM-522 so you'll want the Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM-521453-5. This fits select models with a factory bumper, if you have an aftermarket bumper then let me know and I can look for a fit. For the lighting you'll need the Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit # RM-15267 unless you have ParkSense...
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed To Flat Tow 2023 Jeep Gladiator With Blue Ox Tow Bar And Brake System
    Hello James, thanks for reaching out. We have exactly what you need. You can absolutely utilize your Blue Ox tow bar and brake system in your 2023 Jeep Gladiator. Here are the rest of the part I recommend: - Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # BLU53FR - Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 7-Way to 6-Way Coiled Adapter Cord # RM-15267 - 12 Volt Outlet Kit, 20 amps # RM-9332 - Second Vehicle Breakaway Kit for Blue Ox Patriot Flat Tow Brake Systems # BRK2505 Please...
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed To Flat Tow 2025 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon X With Blue Ox Tow Bar
    Hello Rob, thanks for reaching out, and congrats on the new Jeep! We can absolutely provide all the parts you need to flat tow your Gladiator Rubicon with your Blue Ox tow bar. Here is what I recommend: - Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # BLU53FR - Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 7-Way to 6-Way Coiled Adapter Cord # RM-15267 - Demco Air Force One Flat Tow Brake System for RVs w/ Air Brakes - Wireless Monitoring - Proportional # DM26VR - Roadmaster...
    view full answer...
  • Which Blue Ox Base Plate Kit Fits 2024 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon
    Hey Gathen, since your 2024 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon has the plastic from bumper the correct Blue Ox base plate kit you'd need to use with your Blue Ox tow bar is the part # BLU53FR.
    view full answer...
  • Best Flat Tow Setup For 2024 Jeep Gladiator Using Blue Ox Tow Bar
    Hello Joseph, thanks for reaching out. We do have the parts you need to flat tow your 2024 Jeep Gladiator. Assuming you already have the tow bar and safety cables, here is what you will need: - Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # BLU53FR - Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 7-Way to 6-Way Coiled Adapter Cord # RM-15267 - Roadmaster Smart Diode Kit for Variable Voltage LED Tail Lights - 7-Way to 6-Way Adapter Cord # RM63MR - Demco Stay-IN-Play Duo Flat...
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Base Plate for a 2024 Gladiator Mojave X
    Hey Marty, congrats on the new Jeep. To use a Falcon 2 Tow Bar item # RM-520 with your 2024 Gladiator Mojave X you're going to need the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit item # BLU53FR and the Tow Bar Adapter Brackets for Blue Ox Base Plates item # RM-031. Roadmaster's item # RM-521453-5 baseplate does not fit the Mojave models of the 2024 Gladiator. Blue Ox is the only company that does. I have linked an installation video below so you can see how to get it set up.
    view full answer...
  • Can Winch Mounting Bracket and Base Plate Install on Vehicle at Same Time
    Hey Russ, base plate kits and winch mounting brackets can't be installed both at the same time since they occupy the same area on the front of the vehicle as well as attach to the vehicle in the same area.
    view full answer...
  • Should 2022 Jeep Gladiator Get Blue Ox Base Plate Kit with Blue Ox Tow Bar
    Hey Kevin, since you have a Blue Ox tow bar the easiest base plate kit solution for your 2022 Jeep Gladiator would be the Blue Ox part # BLU53FR since that wouldn't require any adapters and we know it fits well and is easier to use. Do you have the rest of the flat towing setup figured out light lighting and braking?
    view full answer...
  • Flat Towing Set Up For 2023 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon
    Hi Jerry! We can definitely get you everything you need to flat tow your 2023 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon and I have a full list below. I do have both a Roadmaster and Blue Ox base plate listed as I wasn't 100% sure on what you meant by push in and twist, as both brands do that. Figured it was safer listing both and you would then pick the one that matches your tow bar. : ) Base Plates: Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # BLU53FR Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable...
    view full answer...
  • Base Plate Options For 2023 Jeep Gladiator Mojave For Flat Towing Behind Motorhome
    There are a couple options for base plates on your 2023 Jeep Gladiator Mojave, which are the Roadmaster you mentioned, as well as Blue Ox. Here are the part numbers for both: - Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM77VR - Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BLU53FR To be frank, the difference between these two base plates is essentially nil. For most people it comes down to what tow bar they have, but since you don't have a tow bar yet, go with the Roadmaster. Reason for that is their tow...
    view full answer...
  • Blue Ox Base Plate Kit for 2022 Jeep Gladiator with Plastic Bumper
    The correct Blue Ox base plate kit for your 2022 Jeep Gladiator that has the factory plastic bumper is the part # BLU53FR.
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2023 Jeep Gladiator
    The easiest to use and highest quality base plate kit that fits your 2023 Jeep Gladiator is the Blue Ox part # BLU53FR which would work great with a tow bar like the # BX7420. We do have custom fit lighting solutions like the Curt part # C96JR that plugs inline with the taillight connectors of the vehicle which would be easier to install than a diode setup. And finally, most states now require supplemental braking in the vehicle being flat towed. The easiest system to set up and use is...
    view full answer...
  • Comparing Roadmaster & Blue Ox Base Plates For 2023 Jeep Gladiator For Towing With Ready Brute Bars
    For your 2023 Jeep Gladiator Mojave your options are either the Blue Ox Base Plate # BLU53FR which you found or the Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit # RM77VR. The kit # RM-521453-5 you found does not fit your Mojave package. Both the Roadmaster and Blue Ox options are very similar in design with the main difference being Blue Ox requiring you to use safety cables as a safety device. Personally I recommend going with the Roadmaster as their parts I find have better quality and you...
    view full answer...
  • Comparing etrailer and Blue Ox Baseplate Kits For A 2023 Jeep Gladiator
    Hey Dave, In my opinion the etrailer Invisible Base Plate Kit # e98948 is going to be the stronger option compared to the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BLU53FR. Blue Ox started adding safety cables to their baseplate kits as a last resort backup in the event that the baseplate breaks off from the frame. Our etrailer line of baseplates are all made by Demco, which is a well-known name in the RV and towing industry and do not require additional safety cables during the installation. With the...
    view full answer...
  • Comparing Blue Ox And etrailer Baseplates For A 2023 Jeep Gladiator
    Hi Dave, The etrailer Invisible Base Plate Kit # e98948 and Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BLU53FR are designed slightly different, but both are compatible fits for your 2023 Jeep Gladiator. The # e98948 is going to be an easier installation since you won't have to cut into the frame rails and shows as a compatible fit with Blue Ox tow bars without the need for an adapter.
    view full answer...
  • What Parts do I Need to Flat-Tow My 2022 Jeep Gladiator with Factory Steel Bumper?
    If you have a factory steel bumper on a 2022 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon with a factory steel bumper, you need a base plate, a tow bar, a tow braking system, safety cables, and vehicle tow wiring. You also need additional parts for the battery charger kit. For that setup, I recommend the following parts: - Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # BLU53FR - Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar for Blue Ox Base Plates - Motorhome Mount - 2" Hitch # RM-525 - RoadMaster 68" Single Hook, Coiled Safety...
    view full answer...
  • Base Plate Kit to Tow 2020 Jeep Gladiator with Roadmaster Falcon for Blue Ox Base Plate Kits
    In the picture you sent in the end of the tow bar has the triple lug setup of a Blue Ox tow bar. This would indicate that the tow bar you have is the Falcon for Blue Ox base plate kits part # RM-525 which means the base plate you should have ordered was the Blue Ox part # BX1142 for your 2020 Jeep Gladiator.
    view full answer...
    Image 1 for
  • Recommended Flat Towing Components For A 2023 Jeep Gladiator
    To flat tow your 2023 Jeep Gladiator you'll need the following components: Baseplate: Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BLU53FR. Tow Bar: Blue Ox Avail Non-Binding Tow Bar # BX7420. This tow bar will also come with safety cables included so you won't have to purchase them separately. Tow Bar Wiring Kit: If your Gladiator has ParkSense Proximity Sensors then you'll need the Roadmaster Smart Diode Wiring Kit for Variable Voltage LED Tail Lights # RM63MR. If you do not have these sensors then...
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Base Plate Kit for a 2023 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon
    That one does not but I do have a Blue Ox one that will fit your 2023 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon. It is the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit item # BLU53FR. This one fits both the Rubicon with factory plastic bumper and the models with the factory steel bumper.
    view full answer...
  • Will the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit Fit 2021 Jeep Gladiator With Steel Bumper and Winch
    The Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BLU53FR will fit your 2021 Jeep Gladiator with the factory steel bumper even with the winch installed, which has been confirmed by Blue Ox. This kit has a hidden design with removable arms to provide a clean, seamless look when you are not flat towing. It has a bolt on installation, so no welding is required. I have attached an installation video on a 2021 Jeep Gladiator for your reference.
    view full answer...
  • Does Metal Skid Plate Get Reinstalled on 2021 Jeep Gladiator When Installing Blue Ox Base Plates
    The metal skid plate does get reinstalled and will not have to be modified when installing the Blue Ox base plates on your 2021 Jeep Gladiator; the correct fit for your Gladiator is the following number: - Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BLU53FR You will need to remove the skid plate initially, but it does get re-installed behind the base plate, and you'll simply re-use the factory hardware. You made a nice choice going with Blue Ox as they have a deserved reputation for quality. To be thorough,...
    view full answer...
  • Blue Ox Base Plate Kits that Fit 2008 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited and 2020 Jeep Gladiator Sport
    For your 2008 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon the Blue Ox base plate kit you'd need is the part # BX1126 unless you have the Hard Rock Edition which then you'd need the # BX1134. Then for the 2020 Jeep Gladiator Sport you'd need the base plate kit part # BLU53FR.
    view full answer...


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