Difference Between Base Plate Kits for 2017 Jeep Wrangler

Updated 06/04/2026 | Published 05/26/2026

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Invisible Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(838)

$458.84

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(5250)

$609.00

etrailer SD Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,000 lbs

(363)

$854.77

etrailer Classic Base Plate Kit - Fixed Arms

(58)

$426.31

Blue Ox Tow Bar Adapter Brackets for etrailer Classic Base Plates

(9)

$99.90

Question:

There are different prices for a flat towing base plate for 2017 Jeep wrangler. What’s the difference. Which is better for my needs?

asked by: Christopher U

Expert Reply:

Hey Christopher! The main differences between the base plates are the brands they're designed to work with, how they attach to the tow bar, and how much of the base plate remains visible when you're not towing. There are also some different styles depending on the bumper you have.

If you're looking for the most cost-effective option, and have the standard factory bumper, I recommend the etrailer Invisible Base Plate Kit # e98949. This provides a clean installation with removable arms, and gives you the attachment points for a tow bar like the etrailer SD Non-Binding Tow Bar # e34ZR.

If you already have a tow bar, let me know the brand and model and I'd be happy to confirm compatibility. Do you have your wiring and brake system picked out yet?

expert reply by: Robin H

etrailer Invisible Base Plate Kit
(click to enlarge)

Christopher U.

5/31/2026

Thank you for clarifying that. I have 2016 rubicon, lifted and with a winch. Blue ox tow bar.

Robin H.

5/31/2026

@ChristopherU looks like that Rubicon can still have the standard factory bumper. Assuming it does, the # e98949 is compatible with a Blue Ox tow bar without the need for any adapters. If you have the 10th Anniversary/Hard Rock Edition bumper then the # e98947 will work, but you would also need adapters # e98982. That pushes the cost up there so you could just get the Blue Ox # BX1134 at that point.

Christopher

6/1/2026

Chris - I bought the eTrailer base plate last summer, had it professionally installed and then used it to tow our Jeep for approximately 4K miles over 4 weeks. No problems. Easy to hookup to and detach from the tow bar. Don't think you'll be disappointed. Good luck. Peter

Bob K.

6/1/2026

@Christopher I bought one and installed it myself! Saved a bunch. Videos at eTrailer made it easy. I had to drill two 1/2” holes. I did them in 3 or 4 stages. I’ve not had good luck drilling 1/2” in car frames. It was easy. I removed the bumper and disconnected the lights. Then I wire brushed all accessible surfaces, cleaned with mineral spirits and painted with Rustoleum high gloss black. I marked and drilled the holes and installed the base plate. Getting the bumper back on stopped me (75 years old by the way) but I got help from a neighbor and it when back on. I purchased the plug and play wiring harness and followed the video instructions. It’s great too.

Christopher U.

6/4/2026

Thanks everyone for your input, it was very helpful.