Will Blue Ox Tow Bar Work with etrailer Base Plate Kit

Updated 03/31/2026 | Published 03/30/2026

Question:

I am going to flat tow my Ford F 150, and Im trying to choose between the Blu Ox base plate And the Trailer brand base plate . I already have a Blu Ox tow bar. Wondering about ear if install between the brands? Thanks

asked by: Ken B

Expert Reply:

Hey Ken, the etrailer Invisible Base Plate Kit # e86YR that you referenced does fit to Blue Ox base plate kits directly so it would work great for you. Do you have the rest of your flat towing setup picked out already?

expert reply by: Jameson C

etrailer Base Plate Kit
(click to enlarge)

Ken B.

3/30/2026

Thanks Jameson for the prompt response. I was more wondering about the difference of quality and construction between Blu Ox and the e- trailer branded base plate. Thanks Ken B

Jameson C.

3/30/2026

@KenB They are both really good. I would say it's super rare that we hear about quality issues with any of the flat towing components we sell and for a long time I always assumed Blue Ox was the best and while this may be anecdotal the only times I've seen issues with base plate kits, or had complaints it's been a Blue Ox. It's only been a very small handful of times though.

Jake

3/31/2026

The etrailer base plate works great. Fairly easy install. Use blue lock tight to ensure it stays tight.

Scott

3/31/2026

@Jake yes or red. One of my bolts and the metal lock bar fell out. Gotta try and get another one to install on new truck

Jake

3/31/2026

@Scott Red, I caught mine being loose a disconnect. It has remained tight since.

Scott

3/31/2026

I used the blue ox on 3 of the other 150s I towed. I bought this set from here and glad I did. No removing the bumper to install. I just removed it today because I bought a newer truck. Literally took about 35 minutes to get off. It's a nice set up.