Base Plates and Other Equipment Needed to Flat Tow 2002 Jeep Wrangler Behind Motorhome

Published 01/17/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Blue Ox Universal Bolt-On Base Plate Brackets - 5,000 lbs

(75)

$113.11

Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(475)

$1653.55

Demco Commander II Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,000 lbs

(84)

$879.00

Demco Tabless Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(409)

$471.07

Question:

Can I use bx88230 and mount on stock front channel shape factory on 2002 jeep wrangler or do I have to beef up or get a different bumper

asked by: Ron

Expert Reply:

For the stock channel bumper I recommend using the Demco base plate kit # DM9519045. The # BX88230 you referenced could work as well, but it would be up to you to do any engineering needed to determine if the bumper is sufficiently strong or do the fabrication to strengthen the bumper if necessary.

If it were me, I'd go with the base plates from Demco because of the tabless feature. To round out your flat towing set-up, you'll need some additional parts.

To go with the base plates the Demco Commander ll # DM9511012 will work for you. It includes safety cables and has independent arms to make it easier to hook up.

You'll also need a wiring solution so that the taillights on your Wrangler operate in tandem with those of the motorhome. The Hopkins # HM56202 tow bar wiring is an easy to install plug and play option that would plug inline with the taillight wiring harnesses feeding the taillight assemblies. No cutting or splicing required.

Finally, you'll need a supplemental braking system, which is required by just about every State and Canadian Province. There are many braking system options, but I really like the portable options like the Blue Ox Patriot 3 # BLU37TR. There's no detailed install involved and it can be easily transferred to a different vehicle if you ever replace the Jeep.

I've linked you to some flat towing FAQ articles you might find helpful as well as to an install video.