Installing Blue Ox Base Plate Bracket Kit # BX88230 on 1989 Jeep YJ with Aftermarket Bumper

Updated 06/11/2014 | Published 06/09/2014

Products Featured in This Question

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

(75)

$112.59

Roadmaster Universal Magnetic Tow Lights with 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector

(44)

$83.79

Question:

Question Regarding Flat Towing a 1989 Jeep Wrangler with Blue Ox. Hello, I have an 89 Jeep Wrangler with an aftermarket 4x4 bumper, with smaller D-rings. These D-rings take 5/8inch shackles and require a 3/4inch pin. I have a Smittybilt tow bar and purchased the Warrior 865 Two Bar Adapters to work on these D-rings. However, I am planning on towing to Colorado, so I would like to invest in a Blue Ox-Alpha Tow Bar. I wanted the BX88296 D-Ring Adapter but it will not fit my bumper because the smallest pin is 7/8. So, I purchased the General Adapter BX88230 to bolt on to my bumper. Can you tell me what the minimum spread can be for the BX88230? Because my D-rings are 28.5inch apart from the inside of the ring If I follow the printed instructions with the adapters, they should be mounted right where the D-rings are located. Also, what lighting harness do you recommend if I do not want to use magnetic? Thanks,

asked by: Jim

Expert Reply:

According to my contact at Blue Ox, their Bolt-On Base Plate Bracket Kit # BX88230 needs to be installed as close as possible to a 24-inch spread for use with their Alpha Tow Bar. You have at most 1 - 2-inches of leeway either wider or narrower. Since your bumper's D-rings are 28-1/2-inches apart you may be able to fit the brackets inboard of the D-rings and remain within an acceptable spread.

It is a good idea to check with the manufacturer of your aftermarket bumper to find out if any structural reinforcement is required at the bracket mounting points.

We do not show any tow bar wiring kits for the 1989 Jeep YJ (only for years '92 - '95) so a magnetic kit will be needed. For a 4-pole you can use # RM-2120.

expert reply by: Adam R