Difference Between Baseplate Options for 2024 Jeep Wrangler

Updated 09/08/2026 | Published 08/31/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(5149)

$609.00

etrailer Invisible Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(822)

$505.79

Blue Ox Tow Bar Adapter Brackets for etrailer Classic Base Plates

(9)

$99.16

Blue Ox Tow Bar Adapter Brackets for etrailer Invisible Base Plates

(17)

$89.67

Question:

I have a 2024 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon that I want to flat tow. I am looking for the base bracket. I already have a Blue Ox tow bar and brake system. What is the difference between Blue Ox BX1139 and Etrailer e98948? Does one sit higher than the other for more ground clearance? Thanks.

asked by: Mike V

Expert Reply:

Hey Mike,

Both the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BX1139 and the etrailer Invisible Base Plate Kit # e98948 sit at the same height from the ground, which is 18" high. The biggest difference is the tow bar compatibility and the way the removable arms are set up.

The # BX1139 is designed specifically for Blue Ox tow bars, so a compatible Blue Ox tow bar will connect directly to it without any additional adapters. The # e98948 uses etrailer-style removable arms and is designed to work directly with etrailer and Demco tow bars. If you want to use a Blue Ox tow bar with the # e98948, you may need the Blue Ox adapter brackets # e98986 or e98982, depending on which tow bar you have. I've linked below the baseplate adapter table where you can confirm which adapter you need.

Otherwise, they're very similar. Both are custom-fit, bolt-on base plates with removable twist-lock arms, and both leave a pretty clean appearance when the arms are removed.

If you already have a Blue Ox tow bar, I'd go with the # BX1139 since it keeps the setup simpler and eliminates the need for adapters.

What kind of coach do you plan to tow with, and do you already have your wiring for the Jeep?

expert reply by: Jerry B

Roland S.

9/4/2026

The base plate I got was BLUE OX. I did not know about the etrailer one. Mine when mounted, shows only the 2x2 square where the removable tow pins attach. The plastic shield is cut on each side to mount under the base place. It looks good. I have not had any problems with it contacting anything while off roading. Am in Colorado now doing jeep roads and forest roads. Mine is a stock 24 Rubicon Unlimited..

Mike V.

9/5/2026

@RolandS Thank you for the reply. I watched the installation video for the Blue Ox base plate. Do you think you could get a wrench on the nut inside the frame if you ever wanted to remove the base plate? How is the access?

Rolands

9/5/2026

@Mike V. I did not install, but had an RV shop install. I don’t do electrical. ??