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Blue Ox
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2008 - 2015 Smart Fortwo
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Made from high-quality steel for maximum durability and longevity.
Material: Steel
Color: Black
Finish: Powder Coat
Mounting Type: Bolt On
Mounting Hardware Included Yes/No: Yes
The Blue Ox BX1987 Tow Bar Bracket is a robust and reliable solution for all your towing needs. Custom designed for each specific towed vehicle, this top-notch base plate is crafted from high-quality steel for unmatched durability and strength. Its black powder coat finish not only enhances its overall appeal but also provides resistance against corrosion and wear. With its bolt-on mounting type, the installation process becomes a breeze. The package includes all the necessary hardware and easy-to-follow instructions to facilitate a hassle-free, do-it-yourself installation. Trust in the quality and reliability of Blue Ox for all your towing requirements.
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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1 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2008 - 2015 | Smart Fortwo | Comes with Removable Attachment Tabs Install Rating 4 Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install Requires Some Trimming of Bumper Fascia/Plastic/And/Or Grill Minor Drilling Required Requires Some Trimming of the Air Dam Use only w/Motorhome Mount Tow Bars Or PN BX8833/BX88151 Adapters Only Use Acclaim w/23”: 30” Spaced Removable Tab Baseplates Only Use Adventurer with 18”: 41” Spaced Removable Tab Baseplates Removable Tabs w/Only 1 Hole Will Not Attach to Car Mount Tow Bars or Adapters |
Yes, the BlueOx Tow Bar Base Plate, Front Mount, RV Flat Towing for Select, CRSLR/MERCDS SMARTCAR (Part #FDRWBX1987) is designed to fit the 2008-2015 Smart Fortwo.
The BlueOx Tow Bar Base Plate, Front Mount, RV Flat Towing for Select, CRSLR/MERCDS SMARTCAR (Part #FDRWBX1987) fits the following vehicles: 2008-2015 Smart Fortwo. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The BlueOx Tow Bar Base Plate, Front Mount, RV Flat Towing for Select, CRSLR/MERCDS SMARTCAR (Part #FDRWBX1987) fits 2008-2015 Smart Fortwo models. The 2015 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
The BlueOx Tow Bar Base Plate, Front Mount, RV Flat Towing for Select, CRSLR/MERCDS SMARTCAR (Part #FDRWBX1987) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
The BX1987 is a towing baseplate manufactured by Blue Ox designed specifically for 2008–2015 Smart Cars. It provides the connection point for a tow bar to allow the vehicle to be towed behind a motorhome or other towing vehicle. The baseplate is computer tested to your vehicle's GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating).
The BX1987 is designed for 2008–2015 Smart Cars. However, the manual notes that dimensional variations between otherwise identical vehicles can be considerable, and it may be necessary to tailor the baseplate slightly to compensate for manufacturer's tolerances. If the front of your vehicle looks different than shown in the manual, contact Blue Ox Customer Care at (402) 385-3051.
Yes. Several steps are not necessary on 2012 models: Step 15 (remove push pin from top of wheel well), Step 16 (remove bolt on bottom of wheel well), and Step 17 (remove push pin on right side and pull wheel well covers). Additionally, Step 22 applies only to 2012–2015 models and involves replacing bolts with 6MM-1.0 x 15MM bolts. Step 30 applies only to 2014 and later models equipped with fog lights and requires trimming the top of the fog light bezels.
The manual does not address interference with spare tires or other undercarriage components. Contact Blue Ox Customer Care at (402) 385-3051 or consult with a Blue Ox Dealer for fitment confirmation on your specific vehicle.
Required tools include: Large Vise Grip, Flat Screwdriver, Utility Knife, Phillips Screwdriver, Torque Wrench, Drill, Tape Measure, 13/32" Drill Bit, 10MM Socket, 15MM Socket, 9/16" Socket, 9/16" Wrench, 3/8" 12 Point Socket, 5/16" 12 Point Socket, T25 Torx, and T30 Torx. You will also need Loctite Red and a good quality paint to spray cut frame edges to prevent rusting.
The kit includes: 8 × 3/8"-16 Whiz Nuts with 14" Wire (Item 1), 8 × 3/8"-16 Nut Plates with 14" Wire (Item 2), 1 × BX1987 Baseplate (Item 3), 1 × Driver Side Support Bracket (Item 4), 1 × Passenger Side Support Bracket (Item 5), 2 × Attachment Tabs (Item 6), 2 × BX1987 Endplates (Item 7), 1 × Breakaway Bracket (Item 8), 4 × 1/2"-13 x 1-1/4" Hex Head Bolts Grade 5 (Item 9), 2 × 1/4"-20 x 3/4" Hex Head Bolts Grade 5 (Item 10), 2 × #10-32 x 1/2" Slotted Round Head Screws (Item 11), 16 × 3/8"-16 x 1-1/4" Hex Head Bolts Grade 5 (Item 12), 2 × 6MM-1.0 x 15MM Hex Head Bolts Grade 8.8 (Item 13), 2 × #12-14 x 1" Self Drilling Screws (Item 14), 2 × 1/2"-13 Hex Nuts (Item 15), 2 × #10-32 Hex Nuts (Item 16), 2 × 1/4"-20 Hex Nylon Nuts (Item 17), 2 × 3/8" Flat Washers (Item 18), 16 × 3/8" Lock Washers (Item 19), 4 × 1/2" Lock Washers (Item 20), 2 × #10 Lock Washers (Item 21), 1 × Electrical Bracket (Item 22), 2 × 36" Class III Baseplate Safety Cables (Item 23), 2 × 3/8" Quicklinks (Item 24), and 2 × Black Cap Plug Receivers (Item 25).
The manual states that the BX8848 4-Diode Wiring Kit is recommended for this vehicle, but does not specify whether it is included in the baseplate kit or must be purchased separately. Contact your Blue Ox Dealer or Blue Ox Customer Care at (402) 385-3051 to confirm.
Blue Ox recommends that towing products be installed by Blue Ox Dealers who are familiar with the products and have the equipment and knowledge necessary to do "fit work". Blue Ox Dealers can be found at www.blueox.com or by contacting Customer Care at (402) 385-3051. However, the manual does not explicitly state that professional installation is mandatory.
The hood, antenna, fascia, tires, and bumper must be removed and reinstalled after baseplate installation. The wheel well covers must also be removed and reinstalled. All removed items should be placed on a flat, sturdy surface. The manual notes that handling of cosmetic parts may require protective covers, rags, and specialty tools to prevent damage.
Yes. Step 13 requires that you "put the vehicle up on jack stands" before removing the tire lug nuts and tires on both sides of the vehicle.
Yes. Step 24 requires drilling four holes through the frame on each side of the vehicle using a 13/32" drill bit. The support bracket is used as a template to mark the hole locations. This is a permanent modification to the vehicle frame.
Several trimming operations are required: (1) Step 21: Cut a 3" wide piece from the middle of the corrugated plastic using a utility knife to allow the baseplate to slide on. (2) Step 27: On the driver side, remove two gussets using a utility knife. (3) Step 28: On the passenger side, trim off the tab using the outer edge as a guide. (4) Step 29: Trim the air dam to allow connection of cables and quicklinks to the baseplate; be aware of the radiator condenser and other items behind the plastic. (5) Step 30 (2014+ models with fog lights only): Trim the top of the fog light bezels on both sides. (6) Step 33: Trim the lower portion of the inner wheel well to allow reinstallation. (7) Step 34: Trim the fascia around the convenience links and attachment tabs.
Yes. The manual states: "Use a good quality paint to spray cut edges of frame to prevent rusting." This should be done after drilling the frame holes in Step 24.
The manual provides a general torque chart for metric and inch bolts by size and grade. For the BX1987, the key bolts are: 3/8"-16 bolts (Grade 5): 33 foot-pounds; 1/2"-13 bolts (Grade 5): 78 foot-pounds; 6MM-1.0 bolts (Grade 8.8): 8 foot-pounds. However, the manual does not provide specific torque values for the 1/2"-13 bolts used to fasten the baseplate to the brackets in Step 31. Always use Loctite Red on all bolt threads before tightening and tighten all bolts according to the torque chart unless otherwise specified.
Attachment Tab Height: 13-1/2". Attachment Tab Width: 17".
The manual does not specify the GVWR rating. It states that the baseplate is computer tested to your vehicle's GVWR and that exceeding this weight will void the manufacturer's warranty. Refer to your vehicle owner's manual for manufacturer's towing specifications, or contact Blue Ox Customer Care at (402) 385-3051.
The BX8848 4-Diode Wiring Kit is recommended for this vehicle. The manual does not provide wiring installation instructions; refer to the wiring kit documentation or contact Blue Ox Customer Care at (402) 385-3051.
Yes. The manual states: "Be sure that ALL electrical connections are plugged in and accessories are functioning properly before reinstalling the fascia."
Due to the narrow wheelbase of the Smart Car, there is a problem with the steering coming back to a straight position after making a turn. The manual recommends using bungee cords to straighten the wheel back out. Place two bungee cords crossing from one side of the steering wheel to the other side of the driver seat; this gives resistance in each direction to bring the steering wheel back to center after making a turn.
If the baseplate 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 baseplate if it is damaged or missing parts.
Permanent baseplate safety cables are strongly recommended when towing a vehicle with a tow bar. Their function is to prevent the towed vehicle from breaking loose in the event the connection between the frame and baseplate fails or becomes disconnected. The cables must be connected from the baseplate to the frame rail or cross member of the vehicle's frame. However, permanent baseplate safety cables are to be used in conjunction with, and NOT a replacement for, legally required safety cables attaching the towed vehicle to the towing vehicle.
The permanent baseplate safety cables must be connected from the baseplate to the frame rail or cross member of the vehicle's frame. The manual provides two installation options: Option #1 shows the cable around a crossmember or frame of the towed vehicle with a quicklink attached to the baseplate's convenience link tab. Option #2 shows a similar arrangement for baseplates without convenience link tabs. Do not mount the permanent baseplate safety cables against wires, hoses, or brake lines. Be aware of oil cooler and air conditioner lines, electrical wires, and hoses when routing the cables.
When using power drills, be aware of the dangers of torque and drill bit length. When using a reciprocating saw, be aware of objects behind the cutting surface. These warnings apply to the drilling and trimming operations required during installation.
After installation, ensure that: (1) All electrical connections are plugged in and accessories are functioning properly. (2) All bolts are tightened to the specified torque values using Loctite Red. (3) The fascia, bumper, wheel well covers, tires, antenna, and hood are properly reinstalled. (4) The permanent baseplate safety cables are properly attached to the baseplate and frame, and do not rub against any hoses or moving parts. (5) If the vehicle is equipped with a front license plate, move the bolts holding the bracket to a higher position after baseplate installation. (6) The attachment tabs are removed when not in use (if applicable).
It is the owner's responsibility to inspect all towing equipment for cracked welds, missing or worn parts, and loose bolts before each towing trip. Be sure to use Loctite Red on all bolts and tighten to the recommended specifications. The permanent baseplate safety cables should remain installed as long as the baseplate is installed on the vehicle. Register your product online at www.blueox.com to be alerted of product offerings, updates, upgrades, maintenance and safety bulletins, and/or recalls.
Yes. The manual states: "Remove the attachment tabs when not in use (if applicable)."
Yes, the BX1987 is designed for 2008–2015 Smart Cars. Installation varies slightly for 2012+ models. Contact Blue Ox at (402) 385-3051 if your vehicle looks different from the manual.
You will need: torque wrench, drill with 13/32" bit, T25 and T30 Torx drivers, 10MM and 15MM sockets, 3/8" and 5/16" 12-point sockets, 9/16" socket and wrench, utility knife, flat and Phillips screwdrivers, tape measure, large vise grip, Loctite Red, and paint for cut edges.
Hood, antenna, fascia, both tires, bumper, and wheel well covers must be removed. All are reinstalled after baseplate installation. Use jack stands to safely lift the vehicle.
3/8"-16 Grade 5 bolts: 33 ft-lbs. 1/2"-13 Grade 5 bolts: 78 ft-lbs. 6MM-1.0 Grade 8.8 bolts: 8 ft-lbs. Always use Loctite Red on all bolt threads before tightening.
Permanent baseplate safety cables are strongly recommended. They prevent the towed vehicle from breaking loose if the baseplate connection fails. They must be routed from the baseplate to the vehicle frame and must not contact wires, hoses, or brake lines.
This is a known issue with the Smart Car's narrow wheelbase. The manual recommends using two bungee cords crossing from one side of the steering wheel to the other side of the driver seat. This provides resistance in each direction to bring the steering wheel back to center after making a turn.
Step 34 requires trimming the fascia around the convenience links and attachment tabs. Hold the fascia as close to its original position as possible, mark the areas that interfere, and trim accordingly. If the fit is still incorrect, verify that all baseplate fasteners are fully tightened and that the baseplate is properly aligned to the brackets.
For 2012–2015 models, Step 22 requires replacing the original bolts with 6MM-1.0 x 15MM bolts and ensuring the sides of the bolt head are vertical so the bracket will slide on easily. If the bracket still does not slide, verify that the bolt heads are oriented correctly (sides vertical, not top-to-bottom). For other model years, check that the corrugated plastic has been cut 3" wide in the middle (Step 21) to allow the baseplate to slide on.
Step 33 requires trimming the lower portion of the inner wheel well to allow the wheel well cover to be reinstalled to its original position. If the cover still does not fit, verify that the trim has been completed as shown in the manual and that the baseplate is properly aligned.
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