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Blue Ox
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2003 - 2010 Dodge Ram 2500
Confirmed to Fit
2003 - 2010 Dodge Ram 3500
Confirmed to Fit
2016 Ram 2500
Confirmed to Fit
2011 - 2015, 2017 Ram 2500
Confirmed to Fit
2018 Ram 2500
Confirmed to Fit
2011 - 2018 Ram 3500
Confirmed to Fit
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Custom Design: The Blue Ox BX1989 Tow Bar Bracket has been specifically designed for each towed vehicle, ensuring a perfect fit and improved towing safety.
Material: Steel
Color: Black
Finish: Powder Coat
Mounting Type: Bolt On
Mounting Hardware Included Yes/No: Yes
The Blue Ox BX1989 Tow Bar Bracket is an essential component to ensure a safe and secure towing experience. This premium product is custom-designed for each specific towed vehicle, offering an optimal fit and superior performance. Crafted from high-quality steel and finished with a protective black powder coat, this bracket is built to endure tough conditions and resist corrosion. It's designed for bolt-on mounting, making installation straightforward and hassle-free. The package includes all necessary hardware and comprehensive instructions for a smooth, do-it-yourself installation.
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 BlueOx Tow Bar Base Plate, Front Mount, RV Flat Towing for Select, DODGE RAM 2500-3500 (Part #FDRWBX1989) fits 2003-2010 Dodge Ram 2500 models. The 2018 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
Yes, the BlueOx Tow Bar Base Plate, Front Mount, RV Flat Towing for Select, DODGE RAM 2500-3500 (Part #FDRWBX1989) is designed to fit the 2003-2010 Dodge Ram 2500.
The BlueOx Tow Bar Base Plate, Front Mount, RV Flat Towing for Select, DODGE RAM 2500-3500 (Part #FDRWBX1989) fits the following vehicles: 2003-2010 Dodge Ram 2500; 2003-2010 Dodge Ram 3500; 2011-2018 Ram 2500; 2011-2018 Ram 3500. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The BlueOx Tow Bar Base Plate, Front Mount, RV Flat Towing for Select, DODGE RAM 2500-3500 (Part #FDRWBX1989) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
Yes, the BX1989 baseplate is designed for 2003-18 Dodge Ram 2500 and 2003-18 Dodge Ram 3500 models. The attachment tab height is 25-1/2" and width is 24". If the front of your vehicle looks different than shown in the manual, contact Blue Ox technical service at (402) 385-3051 before proceeding.
The kit includes: one BX1989 baseplate (61-6720), two attachment tab assemblies with holes (62-3468), fasteners (bolts, screws, nuts, washers and lock washers as listed in the parts table), one electrical bracket (299-0685), two Class IV safety cables (226-0049), two 1/2" quicklinks (229-0512), and two black cap plug receivers (290-0437). A tail light wiring kit (BX8869 for non-LED or BX8848 for LED models) is recommended but sold separately.
Required tools are: torque wrench, 10MM socket, 13MM socket, 18MM socket, 5/8" socket, 5/8" wrench, 11/16" socket, 11/16" wrench, T20 Torx, T50 Torx, and Loctite Red. You will also need a power drill (with awareness of torque and bit length dangers) and possibly a reciprocating saw for radiator shroud trimming on 2013 models.
Yes, the bumper must be removed and reinstalled. For 2010-13 models, you must also remove the radiator cover (two pins on each side) and grille (four bolts from top, then unsnap lower section). For 2013 models specifically, you must also remove the plastic insert from the bumper (two screws from top edge and four push pins from bottom edge). All removed components are reinstalled after baseplate installation.
1. Remove radiator cover and grille (2010-13 models only). 2. Remove bumper fasteners and bumper. 3. Remove tow hooks using T50 Torx and/or 18MM socket (four bolts per side). 4. For 2013 models, trim lower radiator shroud for D-Link clearance on both sides. 5. Install baseplate and tow hooks into tow hook holes using 7/16"-14 x 2" bolts (or 7/16"-14 x 1-1/2" if tow hooks are not equipped or not being reinstalled), with 7/16" lock washers and lock nuts. 6. Attach permanent baseplate safety cables to the convenience link on baseplate and secure to vehicle frame on both sides. 7. Reinstall bumper and grille. 8. For 2013 models, reinstall plastic insert.
Yes, drilling is required for the tail light wiring kit. The manual states "Drill a hole according to the tail light wiring kit instructions." The specific location and size depend on which wiring kit you use (BX8869 for non-LED models or BX8848 for LED models). Detailed drilling instructions are provided with the wiring kit itself. When using a power drill, be aware of the dangers of torque and drill bit length.
Yes, if you have a 2013 model, you must trim the lower radiator shroud on both sides of the vehicle to provide D-Link clearance on the baseplate. This is shown in Step 5 of the installation instructions. This is a permanent modification required for proper baseplate fit on 2013 models only.
For 7/16"-14 bolts, use 54 foot-pounds for Grade 5 bolts or 78 foot-pounds for Grade 8 bolts. The baseplate uses 7/16"-14 x 2" bolts (or 7/16"-14 x 1-1/2" if tow hooks are not equipped). Always apply Loctite Red to all bolt threads before tightening, and use a torque wrench to achieve the correct specification.
The manual provides torque specifications for inch and metric bolts by size and grade. For the BX1989, the main fasteners are 7/16"-14 bolts (54 ft-lbs Grade 5 / 78 ft-lbs Grade 8). The #10-32 screws and #12-14 self-drilling screws do not have torque specifications listed. Always use Loctite Red on all bolt threads and tighten according to the torque chart. If a bolt is lost or needs replacement, use the same grade as the original (typically Grade 5).
Permanent baseplate safety cables are strongly recommended. The kit includes two Class IV safety cables (226-0049) and two 1/2" quicklinks (229-0512). The cables must be connected from the baseplate to the frame rail or cross member of the vehicle's frame on both sides. Do not mount the cables against wires, hoses or brake lines. These cables are to be used in conjunction with, and NOT as a replacement for, legally required safety cables attaching the towed vehicle to the towing vehicle.
The baseplate is computer tested to your vehicle's GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). You must not exceed your vehicle's GVWR, as doing so will void the manufacturer's warranty. Reference your vehicle owner's manual for manufacturer's towing specifications. The weight rating of the two safety cables together will not qualify as the sole safety system.
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. 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.
Before reinstalling the fascia, ensure that ALL electrical connections are plugged in and accessories are functioning properly. Inspect all towing equipment for cracked welds, missing or worn parts and loose bolts. Verify that safety cables do not rub against any hoses or moving parts. Check that the baseplate is not against any wires, hoses or brake lines. Paint any cut edges of the frame to prevent rusting. It is the owner's responsibility to inspect all towing equipment before each towing trip.
Before each towing trip, inspect all towing equipment for cracked welds, missing or worn parts and loose bolts. Use Loctite Red on all bolts and tighten to the recommended torque specifications. Permanent baseplate safety cables should remain installed as long as the baseplate is installed on the vehicle. Remove the attachment tabs when not in use (if applicable). Register your product online at www.blueox.com to be alerted of product offerings, updates, upgrades, maintenance and safety bulletins, and/or recalls.
Blue Ox towing products are intended to be installed by Blue Ox Dealers who are familiar with the products and have the equipment and knowledge necessary to do "fit work". If needed, Blue Ox Dealers can be found at www.blueox.com or by contacting the Technical Service Department at (402) 385-3051. The manual emphasizes that dimensional variations between otherwise identical vehicles can be considerable, and it may be necessary to tailor the baseplate slightly to compensate for vehicle manufacturer's tolerances.
The BX8869 Tail Light Wiring Kit is recommended for non-LED tail light models. The BX8848 4-Diode Wiring Kit is recommended for models with LED tail lights. Both kits are sold separately and include drilling instructions. Ensure all electrical connections are plugged in and accessories are functioning properly before reinstalling the fascia.
If the front of your vehicle looks different than shown in the manual, contact Blue Ox technical service at (402) 385-3051 before proceeding with installation. Do not assume the baseplate will fit if your vehicle's appearance differs from the manual illustrations.
The factory tow hooks are removed during installation (Step 4, using T50 Torx and/or 18MM socket, four bolts per side). They are then reinstalled with the baseplate in Step 6 using 7/16"-14 x 2" bolts with 7/16" lock washers and lock nuts. If the tow hooks are not equipped or not being reinstalled, use 7/16"-14 x 1-1/2" bolts instead of the 2" bolts.
The kit includes: eight 7/16"-14 x 1-1/2" hex head bolts (201-0416) or eight 7/16"-14 x 2" hex head bolts (201-0552) for the baseplate and tow hooks; eight 7/16"-14 nylon insert lock nuts (202-0128); eight 7/16" flat washers (203-0004); eight 7/16" lock washers (203-0011); two #12-14 x 1" self-drilling screws (201-0979); two #10-32 1/2" round slotted head screws (201-0192); two #10-32 hex nuts (202-0047); and two #10 lock washers (203-0054). The 7/16" fasteners are used for baseplate and tow hook installation. The #10-32 fasteners are used for attachment tab assembly. The #12-14 self-drilling screws are used for the electrical bracket.
The attachment tab assembly (62-3468) is included in the kit (qty. 2). It is installed using #10-32 1/2" round slotted head screws (201-0192) and #10-32 hex nuts (202-0047) with #10 lock washers (203-0054). The attachment tabs have a height of 25-1/2" and width of 24". The tabs should be removed when not in use (if applicable).
Yes, the BX1989 is designed for 2003-18 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 models. If your vehicle's front looks different than shown in the manual, contact Blue Ox at (402) 385-3051.
You need a torque wrench, 10MM/13MM/18MM/5/8"/11/16" sockets and wrenches, T20 and T50 Torx, Loctite Red, a power drill, and possibly a reciprocating saw for 2013 models.
Yes, the bumper must be removed and reinstalled. For 2010-13 models, the radiator cover and grille must also be removed. For 2013 models, the plastic bumper insert must be removed and reinstalled.
Yes, drilling is required for the tail light wiring kit (BX8869 for non-LED or BX8848 for LED models). Drilling instructions are provided with the wiring kit. For 2013 models, the lower radiator shroud must also be trimmed.
Use 54 foot-pounds for Grade 5 bolts or 78 foot-pounds for Grade 8 bolts. Always apply Loctite Red to all bolt threads before tightening.
Yes, two Class IV safety cables and two 1/2" quicklinks are included. They must be connected from the baseplate to the vehicle frame on both sides and do not replace legally required safety cables.
The baseplate is rated to your vehicle's GVWR. Do not exceed your vehicle's GVWR or the warranty will be void. Reference your vehicle owner's manual for towing specifications.
6 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2003 - 2010 | Dodge Ram 2500 | Comes with Removable Attachment Tabs Install Rating 2 Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install Minor Drilling Required Requires Some Trimming of the Air Dam Tow Hooks Must be Removed and Remain off the Vehicle After Installation Height Deviation up to 4” higher on the Towing Vehicle Allowed When Used for Utility Applications Only with an Allure Tow Bar |
| 2003 - 2010 | Dodge Ram 3500 | Comes with Removable Attachment Tabs Install Rating 2 Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install Minor Drilling Required Requires Some Trimming of the Air Dam Tow Hooks Must be Removed and Remain off the Vehicle After Installation Height Deviation up to 4” higher on the Towing Vehicle Allowed When Used for Utility Applications Only with an Allure Tow Bar |
| 2016 | Ram 2500 | Comes with Removable Attachment Tabs Height Deviation up to 4” higher on the Towing Vehicle Allowed When Used for Utility Applications Only with an Allure Tow Bar Tow Hooks Must be Removed and Remain off the Vehicle After Installation Requires Some Trimming of the Air Dam Minor Drilling Required Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install Install Rating 2 |
| 2011 - 2015, 2017 | Ram 2500 | Comes with Removable Attachment Tabs Install Rating 2 Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install Minor Drilling Required Requires Some Trimming of the Air Dam Tow Hooks Must be Removed and Remain off the Vehicle After Installation Height Deviation up to 4” higher on the Towing Vehicle Allowed When Used for Utility Applications Only with an Allure Tow Bar |
| 2018 | Ram 2500 | Height Deviation up to 4” higher on the Towing Vehicle Allowed When Used for Utility Applications Only with an Allure Tow Bar Tow Hooks Must be Removed and Remain off the Vehicle After Installation Requires Some Trimming of the Air Dam Minor Drilling Required Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install Install Rating 2 Comes with Removable Attachment Tabs |
| 2011 - 2018 | Ram 3500 | Comes with Removable Attachment Tabs Install Rating 2 Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install Minor Drilling Required Requires Some Trimming of the Air Dam Tow Hooks Must be Removed and Remain off the Vehicle After Installation Height Deviation up to 4” higher on the Towing Vehicle Allowed When Used for Utility Applications Only with an Allure Tow Bar |
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