Troubleshooting Baseplate Install on 2018 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon

Updated 05/21/2026 | Published 05/16/2026

Question:

I am trying to install the baseplate kit 1444-3 on my 2018 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon. The installation video on your website does not include installing the braces steps 4-5 of the instruction manual. Are the braces required? My jeep does not have the hole on the outside of the frame for the long bolt, and it is impossible to drill through the inside hole without removing a lot of interference, like the grill, and maybe even the radiator. I can try drilling from the outside, but there is a lot of play in the bracket, so Id be guessing where the inside hole is. Please advise.

asked by: Jonathon V

Expert Reply:

Hi Jonathon,

Since your 2018 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon doesn't have the necessary hole from the factory, you can loosely bolt on the side plate brackets to use as a template for where you'll need to drill through the frame. Roadmaster recommends starting with a smaller drill bit to mark where the hole needs to be and then remove the brackets and use the appropriate 1/2" drill bit to drill out the hole. The braces are required for the base plates to be properly installed, in the video, they briefly showed one of the brackets partially installed but didn't show the rest of its installation. The hole for installing these brackets will need to be drilled in from the outside. By using the other brackets as a guide, you'll be able to get the hole drilled in the proper place for installation. If you're still having difficulties, we can refer you to a dealer in your area who can assist you with the installation.

expert reply by: Claire H

Tony F.

5/20/2026

I had the same issue when installing mine on a 2010 Wrangler. What I did was mock up the brace bracket with the spacer, guesstimated the alignment and center punched the spot. I used a 1/4” bit first and used a wire to stick through the frame to see how close I got it. The used the 1/2” bit to finish. I also had the bumper off so I was able to eyeball it from the front and underneath. Hope this helps, good luck with your project.

Claire H.

5/21/2026

@TonyF Thanks for sharing your experience and the detailed tips! I’m sure that’ll be helpful for others tackling the same install. Glad you were able to get it lined up successfully!

David A.

5/20/2026

Yes same issue, no big deal . Install with 1 bolt drill a hole using the bracket as a template

Claire H.

5/21/2026

@DavidA Thanks for the feedback! Using the bracket as a template after getting the first bolt installed is definitely a helpful way to line everything up.

Mike S.

5/20/2026

Jonathan, Yes, I had the same issue as you described and had to do the same as others have replied. Drill it from the outside using the outside as a template to line up the hole when you drill it. I have the same set up on two different jeeps. We have towed all over the country including to Alaska. I have had no problems with the set up.

Claire H.

5/21/2026

@MikeS Sounds like you've got a lot of experience with installing and towing with these base plates! Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us!