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Impressive Towing Capacity: With a maximum towing capacity of 15,000 lbs., this tow bar can handle small to large vehicles with ease.
1765: Yes
7340: Yes
Tow Capacity: 15,000 lbs.
Finish: Powder Coat
1761: 15000
Take your towing to the next level with the Blue Ox BX7470 Tow Bar. Known internationally for top-notch quality, Blue Ox has designed this exceptional towing accessory to meet both recreational and commercial needs. It offers an impressive towing capacity of 15,000 lbs., ensuring it can handle even the heaviest loads. The tow bar comes with a robust powder coat finish, providing additional durability and resistance against rust and corrosion. Whether you're hauling equipment for work or towing a recreational vehicle for a road trip, trust the Blue Ox BX7470 Tow Bar for its superior performance, strength, and reliability.
Blue Ox is known internationally for recreational and commercial towing products, manufacturing in Pender, Nebraska since 1925. The line covers tow bars and vehicle-specific baseplates for flat towing behind a motorhome, sway control and weight distributing hitches, supplemental braking accessories and towing wiring, backed by patented designs and long-standing customer service.
Blue Ox has manufactured since 1925 and is recognised internationally for towing products and customer service. The company operates from Pender, Nebraska, where it grew out of Automatic Manufacturing Co., a business that started with cattle oilers and developed into agricultural equipment, tractor accessories and trailer towing hardware. That agricultural engineering heritage still shows in how the towing products are built, and the company holds patents across weight distribution, fifth wheel and tow bar designs.
Flat towing is the discipline Blue Ox is best known for. Towing a car with all four wheels on the ground behind a motorhome demands a system that stays rigid under braking, articulates properly over uneven ground, and connects to the towed vehicle at points strong enough to take the load. Blue Ox tow bars handle the first two, with self-aligning arms that latch under tension and release without a struggle when the load is off them. Vehicle-specific baseplates handle the third, engineered per make and model to tie into structural mounting points behind the fascia.
The wider flat towing range covers supplemental braking systems, safety cables and the accessories that make a complete legal setup, along with baseplate wiring and dinghy towing harnesses that pass lighting signals to the towed vehicle without back-feeding its electrical system.
For conventional trailer towing, Blue Ox weight distributing hitches with integrated sway control transfer tongue load onto the tow vehicle's front axle and resist the yaw that crosswinds and passing trucks induce.
The company describes its foundation as customer service, designing around what owners actually ask for, and it runs an RV park adjacent to the factory where customers can stay. Sister operations at the same Nebraska site include Automatic grain roller mills and MAD-RAMPS pivoting ramp systems.
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The BX7470 Apollo Tow Bar is rated as Class V with a 15,000 lb. towing capacity when used with the standard 2.5 inch receiver hitch connector (BX88425). However, if you use the 2 inch receiver hitch connector (BX88427), the tow bar capacity is lowered to 12,500 lbs. The actual towing capacity of your system is the lesser of the hitch connector and tow bar ratings, so you must verify that both components meet or exceed your towed vehicle's weight.
The BX7470 Apollo Tow Bar is designed for 2.5 inch receivers. Blue Ox also offers optional hitch connectors for 2 inch receivers (BX88427), which lowers the tow bar capacity to 12,500 lbs. Standard 2.5 inch hitch connectors include BX88424, BX88425, and BX88426. Verify your towing vehicle's receiver size before purchasing.
No. The BX7470 Apollo Tow Bar should only be used with vehicles that are towable or have been equipped to be towed. You must follow the towing procedures in your vehicle owner's manual. Additionally, your towing vehicle must be of adequate size with sufficient weight and braking capacity to properly control the towed vehicle in an emergency situation. Check your towing vehicle manufacturer's recommendations for towing, hitch load, and braking capacities before using this tow bar.
Position the towing vehicle on a level surface with a straight driveway ahead before beginning installation. A level surface ensures minimum pressure is exerted on the tow bar legs, which aids in the removal of pins and proper operation of the system.
Slide the hitch connector into the receiver tube of your towing vehicle's hitch, ensuring that the tow bar is right side up with the locking handles on top. Install the receiver pin provided into one of the two holes of the hitch receiver. The inside hole of the receiver tube is most commonly used. Note that the configuration of your towing vehicle's rear will determine how far you can slide the hitch connector into the receiver tube. When the tow bar is folded, you may need to change which set of holes are used in the hitch connector or order a longer hitch connector.
Partially extend one leg by pulling out on it to disengage the internal soft latch. Place the triple lug between the attachment tabs on the baseplate and secure with the 1/2 inch pin and quick pin. Ensure the 1/2 inch pin is installed correctly through the attachment tab with the nose towards the middle of the baseplate. Repeat this process for both legs. The legs are held in place by an internal magnetic latch once fully compressed.
1. On the towed vehicle, disengage the parking brake and set up the transmission for towing and unlock the steering wheel. 2. Pull forward with the towing vehicle until one or both of the locking handles are engaged and locked (they will pop up when locked). 3. If only one locking handle is locked, turn the towed vehicle's steering wheel towards the unlocked tow bar leg approximately 1/2 to 3/4 turn before continuing forward. 4. Drive the towing vehicle forward until the second leg locks into place. Ensure both legs are latched properly before towing.
The attachment points at the center of the attachment tabs and the center of the towed vehicle's hitch receiver should be of equal distance. If a deviation must occur, the hitch receiver should be no more than 3 inches above or below the attachment tabs of the baseplate. This ensures proper alignment and reduces stress on the towing system.
Blue Ox approves a maximum of two connection points between the towing and towed vehicle, with a length no greater than 13.5 inches (hitch pin to hitch pin) on the extension or drop receiver. Using extensions with more than two connection points or a length greater than 13.5 inches constitutes dangerous misuse of the product and will void all warranties. For example, having a tow bar, drop receiver, and hitch extender together is not recommended as it exceeds the maximum two points of connection.
1. Park the towing vehicle with vehicle in tow in a straight line on a level surface. Engage the towing vehicle parking brake. Place the towed vehicle in park (automatic) or first gear (manual) and engage its parking brake. 2. Unhook the lighting and safety cables. 3. Disengage the leg latches by pushing down on the locking handles. 4. Remove the quick pins and 1/2 inch pins attaching the triple lugs to the attachment tabs. You may need to tap the 1/2 inch pins out if there is still pressure on them. 5. Compress both legs completely until they lock in place. 6. Place the 1/2 inch pins back into the triple lugs and secure with the quick pins to avoid losing them.
1. Swing the legs inwards towards each other. 2. With legs together, swing them up towards the towing vehicle. 3. Rotate the legs down to either side until the ears of the leg capture the hold up tab of the hitch connector. This storage position reduces the tow bar's profile when not actively towing.
The manual does not provide information about electrical connections for the BX7470 Apollo Tow Bar itself. However, the manual notes that rear lighting is required on the towed vehicle and that Blue Ox offers lighting kits. Contact your Blue Ox representative for information about lighting kit compatibility and installation.
The use of safety cables or chains is required by law in most US states and Canadian territories and provinces. Blue Ox strongly recommends using safety cables (BX88196 for Class III or BX88197 for Class IV) and permanent safety cables (BX88207 for Class III or BX88208 for Class IV) with all towing applications. Refer to the specific installation instructions for these cables for more information. Verify that the load capacity of cables or chains used meets the needs of your towing setup.
Using the hooks, attach the cables to a solid part of the chassis on the towed vehicle or the convenience links of the baseplate in a crossing pattern underneath the tow bar. Verify the safety snap clicks back against the hook to prevent disconnection. Adjust slack to allow enough room for turns. Cables must not come in contact with the ground, pintle coupler, or locking handles, as damage could occur. Route cables away from the locking handles—safety cable contact with a locking handle could cause the leg to become unlatched and collapse, leading to major damage. Do not wrap safety cables around the legs. Do not use damaged cables.
Before each trip, check for movement in the baseplate by grabbing the baseplate tabs and moving up and down to ensure it is still secure to the vehicle's frame. Inspect all towing equipment for cracked welds, missing or worn parts, and loose bolts. Verify that both legs are latched properly and pins are secured properly. When properly installed, the quick pin ring will snap back onto itself with the chamfered side facing outwards. Ensure the steering wheel on the towed vehicle is unlocked at all times while being towed. Failure to unlock the steering wheel will create hazardous driving conditions.
If the tow bar is in an accident, it must be replaced. Do not use it again. An accident can cause unseen damage, and using it again could result in more damage or serious injury. Do not use the tow bar if it is damaged or missing parts.
No. Do not back up while vehicles are connected. Disconnect the towed vehicle from the towing vehicle before backing up. Damage to both vehicles and the towing system may occur. The towed vehicle may jackknife, causing abnormal stress to the tow bar, car chassis, baseplate, and/or pintle hitch of the towing vehicle. These abnormal stresses may cause damage that may go undetected.
The steering wheel on the towed vehicle must be unlocked at all times while being towed. Failure to unlock the steering wheel will create hazardous driving conditions. Additionally, when hooking up, ensure the towed vehicle's steering wheel is unlocked and set up for towing.
Before each trip, inspect all towing equipment for cracked welds, missing or worn parts, and loose bolts. Check for movement in the baseplate by grabbing the baseplate tabs and moving up and down. Verify that both legs are latched properly and pins are secured properly. During towing, check clearance between vehicles in all turning situations and check the height difference in your towing setup. Avoid sharp turns and rough terrain. Check the towing setup after any emergency situation and periodically on a long trip.
Blue Ox recommends a full tow bar service every two years or 10,000 miles. You can have your tow bar serviced for a fee by a Blue Ox Technician at rallies, by visiting the Pender facility, or by mailing your tow bar to the factory. Call the Customer Care Department at 402-385-3051 to learn more about service options or to find a Blue Ox Dealer to help service your tow bar.
Keep the tow bar covered when not in use, on or off the towing vehicle, to cut down on dirt buildup on the legs and joints. A BX88309 tow bar cover is recommended. Periodically clean the entire surface of the tow bar with a mild soap and water solution and wipe dry with a clean cloth. Check for cracked welds and repair any loose, worn, or damaged bolts, rubber boots, or cap plugs.
Approximately once per year, or if it is difficult to move the legs in and out, remove the small cable ties holding the rubber boots to the legs and slide the boots back. Clean off the inner legs with a silicone spray or brake cleaner. Apply a light coat of multipurpose grease to each leg to ensure smooth operation. Secure each boot back in place with an 8 inch UV rated nylon cable tie. Note that only the inner legs require grease for normal operation. All other tow bar joints rely on self-lubricating washers; if these joints become too stiff, clean them with soap and water.
If the tow bar's legs do not operate smoothly or the joints become excessively loose, take your tow bar to an authorized Blue Ox Dealer or call Blue Ox Customer Care at 402-385-3051 for repairs. Do not attempt to force stiff joints; professional service is recommended.
Replacement parts include: Hitch Connector Standard 2.5 inch (BX88425); Leg Assembly Driver Side (84-0224); Leg Assembly Passenger Side (84-0225); Offset Triple Lug (299-0736); 1/2 inch Pin (229-0520); Quick Pin (62-3213); 1/2 inch-13 x 2-1/4 inch Hex Head Bolt (201-0645); 1/2 inch-13 Essna Jam Nut ZP (202-0143). Additional kits available include Tow Bar Rubber Boot Kit 2 inch (84-0229), Latch Assembly Kits, Handle Grip Kit, Washer Replacement Kit, and Pivot Shaft Bushing Kit. Use only genuine factory replacement parts. Replacement parts may be ordered through your nearest Blue Ox Dealer or Distributor.
Blue Ox provides a three-year limited warranty to the original retail purchaser covering defects in material and workmanship under normal use and service from the date of delivery. During this period, Blue Ox will repair or replace defective parts that are returned to the factory, transportation prepaid. Warranty coverage is valid only if the customer warranty card is returned within 30 days of purchase and a copy of the original invoice accompanies any claim. The warranty is non-transferable and does not cover incorrect or improper installation, improper use, modification, neglect, failure to service and maintain, misuse, accident, normal wear and tear, paint, or rust. Register your warranty at http://blueox.com/warranty/
Yes. Blue Ox strongly recommends registering your product online at www.blueox.com. Registration is crucial so that you may be alerted of product offerings, updates, upgrades, maintenance and safety bulletins, and/or recalls. Additionally, warranty coverage is valid only if the customer warranty card is returned within 30 days of purchase.
Do not use tools when hooking up or unhooking that are not recommended by Blue Ox. The manual does not specify which tools are recommended. Contact Blue Ox Customer Care at 402-385-3051 for guidance on proper tools for your specific application.
Ensure that your towing vehicle is of adequate size to properly control your towed vehicle. The weight and braking capacity of the towing vehicle should be large enough to handle both vehicles in an emergency situation. Check your towing vehicle manufacturer's recommendations for towing capacity, hitch load, and braking capacities. The hitch, ball, motorhome chassis, and safety cables (each individual cable) need to be rated at a minimum for the weight of the vehicle being towed.
Avoid sharp turns and rough terrain. Do not use the towed vehicle for storing luggage or other items, which may cause you to exceed the towing capacity of the tow bar, baseplate, and its accessories. Do not exceed the towing capacity of the tow bar, baseplate, and its accessories. Misaligned towed vehicles may cause poor tracking or abnormal wear on the tires, so ensure the front end of the towed vehicle is properly aligned.
The BX7470 is a Class V tow bar for 2.5 inch receivers with a 15,000 lb. capacity. It fits any vehicle with a 2.5 inch receiver hitch. Your towing vehicle must be towable or equipped to be towed, and your towing vehicle must have adequate size, weight, and braking capacity. Check your vehicle owner's manual for towing compatibility.
Safety cables or chains are required by law in most US states and Canadian territories. Blue Ox recommends safety cables BX88196 (Class III) or BX88197 (Class IV), and permanent safety cables BX88207 (Class III) or BX88208 (Class IV). Rear lighting is also required on the towed vehicle. The steering wheel on the towed vehicle must remain unlocked while towing.
Blue Ox recommends a full service every two years or 10,000 miles. Annually, lubricate the inner legs with multipurpose grease. Before each trip, check that both legs are latched, pins are secured, and the baseplate is secure to the vehicle frame.
The legs may be stiff due to dirt buildup or lack of lubrication. Remove the small cable ties holding the rubber boots to the legs and slide the boots back. Clean off the inner legs with a silicone spray or brake cleaner. Apply a light coat of multipurpose grease to each leg to ensure smooth operation. Secure each boot back in place with an 8 inch UV rated nylon cable tie. If the problem persists, take your tow bar to an authorized Blue Ox Dealer or call Blue Ox Customer Care at 402-385-3051.
If the joints become excessively loose, they may need cleaning or professional service. First, try cleaning the joints with a mild soap and water solution and wipe dry. If the problem persists, take your tow bar to an authorized Blue Ox Dealer or call Blue Ox Customer Care at 402-385-3051 for repairs. Do not attempt to force or over-tighten loose joints.
If only one locking handle is locked during hookup, turn the towed vehicle's steering wheel towards the unlocked tow bar leg approximately 1/2 to 3/4 turn before continuing forward. Drive the towing vehicle forward until the second leg locks into place. This is normal during the hookup process and helps ensure both legs engage properly.
If there is still pressure on the 1/2 inch pins, you may need to tap them out. Ensure the towing vehicle and towed vehicle are parked in a straight line on a level surface to minimize pressure on the tow bar legs, which will aid in the removal of the pins. If the pins remain stuck, gently tap them with a rubber mallet or similar tool.
When properly installed, the quick pin ring should snap back onto itself with the chamfered side facing outwards. If the quick pin does not snap back, the pin may not be fully inserted or may be damaged. Ensure the pin is fully seated and the chamfered side is facing outward. If the pin is damaged, replace it with a genuine Blue Ox replacement part (part number 62-3213). Contact Blue Ox at 402-385-3051 if you need assistance.
Before each trip, check for movement in the baseplate by grabbing the baseplate tabs and moving up and down. If the baseplate is moving, it is not secure to the vehicle's frame. Do not tow until the baseplate is properly secured. Contact an authorized Blue Ox Dealer or call Blue Ox Customer Care at 402-385-3051 for assistance in securing the baseplate to your vehicle frame.
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