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Blue Ox
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Select your vehicle to confirm this part fits.
2004 - 2012 Chevrolet Colorado
Confirmed to Fit
2004 - 2012 GMC Canyon
Confirmed to Fit


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Custom Design: Each Blue Ox BX1656 Tow Bar Bracket is tailored specifically for each towed vehicle, ensuring a perfect fit and streamlined appearance.
Material: Steel
Color: Black
Finish: Powder Coat
Mounting Type: Bolt On
Mounting Hardware Included Yes/No: Yes
The Blue Ox BX1656 Tow Bar Bracket sets the industry standard for reliability and strength. Custom designed for each specific towed vehicle, the base plate integrates seamlessly without altering your vehicle's aesthetics. Constructed from high-quality steel and finished with a durable powder coat, this tow bar bracket ensures superior longevity and performance in all conditions. The kit includes all necessary hardware and comprehensive instructions for a straightforward, do-it-yourself installation. Whether you're towing for a long haul or a short trip, trust in the quality of the Blue Ox BX1656 Tow Bar Bracket.

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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Call 888-634-94943 Years
2 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2004 - 2012 | Chevrolet Colorado | Comes with Removable Attachment Tabs Install Rating 3 Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install Minor Drilling Required Requires Some Trimming of the Belly Pan Tow Hooks Must be Removed and Remain off the Vehicle After Installation Be Sure to Confirm the Weight of Your Individual Vehicle Before Towing. Always Insure Both Your Tow Bar and Hitch are Adequately Rated for the Vehicle’s Overall Weight. |
| 2004 - 2012 | GMC Canyon | Comes with Removable Attachment Tabs Install Rating 3 Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install Minor Drilling Required Requires Some Trimming of the Belly Pan Tow Hooks Must be Removed and Remain off the Vehicle After Installation Be Sure to Confirm the Weight of Your Individual Vehicle Before Towing. Always Insure Both Your Tow Bar and Hitch are Adequately Rated for the Vehicle’s Overall Weight. |
The BlueOx Tow Bar Base Plate, Front Mount, RV Flat Towing for Select, CHEVY COLORADO (Part #FDRWBX1656) fits 2004-2012 Chevrolet Colorado models. The 2012 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, CHEVY COLORADO (Part #FDRWBX1656) is designed to fit the 2004-2012 Chevrolet Colorado.
The BlueOx Tow Bar Base Plate, Front Mount, RV Flat Towing for Select, CHEVY COLORADO (Part #FDRWBX1656) fits the following vehicles: 2004-2012 Chevrolet Colorado; 2004-2012 GMC Canyon. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The BlueOx Tow Bar Base Plate, Front Mount, RV Flat Towing for Select, CHEVY COLORADO (Part #FDRWBX1656) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
Yes, the BX1656 is designed for 2004-12 Chevy Colorado and 2004-12 GMC Canyon vehicles. If the front of your vehicle looks different than shown in the manual, contact Blue Ox at (402) 385-3051 before proceeding with installation.
The attachment tab height is 19-1/2" and the attachment tab width is 19".
Required tools are: flat screwdriver, utility knife, torque wrench, drill, 17/32" drill bit, 13MM socket, 15MM socket, 18MM socket, 3/4" socket, and 3/4" wrench. You will also need Loctite Red for all bolt threads.
The kit includes: 2 nut plates with 10" wire (1/2"-13), 1 baseplate, 2 attachment tab assemblies, 1 electrical bracket (90° bend), 2 bolts 1/2"-13 x 1-3/4" Grade 5, 2 screws #10-32 1/2" round slotted head, 4 bolts 1/2"-13 x 3-1/2" Grade 5, 4 bolts 1/4"-20 x 3/4" Grade 8, 2 self-drilling screws #12-14 x 1", 4 hex nuts 1/2"-13, 2 hex nuts #10-32, 4 flange whiz lock nuts 1/4"-20, 2 flat washers 1/4", 2 flat washers 1/2", 4 lock washers 1/4", 6 lock washers 1/2", 2 lock washers #10, 1 electrical bracket, 2 class III safety cables, 4 quicklinks 3/8", and 2 black cap plug receivers.
Yes. The grille, metal bumper, and belly pan must be removed for baseplate installation and then reinstalled after the baseplate is mounted. The tow hooks (if equipped) are removed and not reinstalled. All removed items should be placed on a flat, sturdy surface during installation.
Yes. 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'. Blue Ox Dealers can be found at www.blueox.com or by contacting the Technical Service Department at (402) 385-3051.
Yes. Drilling and trimming are required. You must drill a lower hole into the frame on both sides of the vehicle using a 17/32" drill bit according to the baseplate template. Additionally, the belly pan must be trimmed during reinstallation. A hole must also be drilled according to the BX8869 Tail Light Wiring Kit instructions if that kit is used.
Use a good quality paint to spray cut edges of the frame to prevent rusting.
For Grade 5 inch bolts: 1/4" = 10 ft-lbs, 5/16" = 19 ft-lbs, 3/8" = 33 ft-lbs, 7/16" = 54 ft-lbs, 1/2" = 78 ft-lbs, 5/8" = 154 ft-lbs, 3/4" = 257 ft-lbs. Tighten all bolts according to the torque chart unless otherwise specified in the instructions.
For Grade 8 inch bolts: 1/4" = 14 ft-lbs, 5/16" = 29 ft-lbs, 3/8" = 47 ft-lbs, 7/16" = 78 ft-lbs, 1/2" = 119 ft-lbs, 5/8" = 230 ft-lbs, 3/4" = 380 ft-lbs.
Yes, the BX8869 Tail Light Wiring Kit is recommended for this vehicle. If used, you must drill a hole according to the tail light wiring kit instructions. Ensure all electrical connections are plugged in and accessories are functioning properly before reinstalling the fascia.
The baseplate is computer tested to your vehicle's GVWR. Exceeding this weight will void the manufacturer's warranty. Refer to your vehicle owner's manual for manufacturer's towing specifications.
Yes. Two class III safety cables are included with the baseplate and must be attached to the baseplate and secured to the frame rail or cross member of the vehicle's frame. The permanent baseplate safety cables are strongly recommended and must remain installed as long as the baseplate is installed. They are to be used in conjunction with, and NOT a replacement for, legally required safety cables attaching the towed vehicle to the towing vehicle. Ensure the safety cables do not rub against any hoses or moving parts.
The permanent baseplate safety cables must be connected from the baseplate to the frame rail or cross member of the vehicle's frame. Do not mount the cables against wires, hoses, or brake lines. Be sure the safety cables do not rub against any hoses or moving parts. The manual shows two recommended installation options with convenience link tabs or quicklinks.
Ensure the baseplate is level with the vehicle. Verify all electrical connections are plugged in and accessories are functioning properly before reinstalling the fascia. Inspect all towing equipment for cracked welds, missing or worn parts, and loose bolts before each towing trip. Use Loctite Red on all bolts and tighten to the recommended specifications.
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. Register your product online at www.blueox.com to be alerted of product offerings, updates, upgrades, maintenance and safety bulletins, and/or recalls.
No. The tow hooks are removed during installation and will NOT be reinstalled.
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.
No. Use only genuine factory replacement parts on your baseplate. Do NOT substitute homemade or non-typical parts. If a bolt is lost or needs replacement, use a replacement bolt of the same grade (in most cases Grade 5). Replacement parts may be ordered through your nearest Blue Ox Dealer or Distributor. Failing to follow these instructions will void the manufacturer's warranty.
1. Align the baseplate with the existing tow hook holes and insert 1/2"-13 x 3-1/2" bolts, temporarily tightening with nuts. 2. Ensure the baseplate is level with the vehicle. 3. Drill the lower hole into the frame on both sides using the baseplate template and 17/32" drill bit. 4. Loosen the bolts from step 1 and slide a 1/2" flat washer between the frame and baseplate to align with the drilled hole. 5. Insert a nut plate into the opening behind the drilled hole on the outside of the frame. 6. Install a 1/2"-13 x 1-3/4" bolt with lock washer into the bottom hole. 7. Remove the hex nuts from the 1/2" x 3-1/2" bolts, install lock washers, and fully tighten all fasteners.
1. Push down on the four retainer clips to release the grille. 2. Pry the upper edge of the grill corners forward to release the tabs from the metal clips on both sides. 3. Pry the lower three tabs of the grille from the bumper. 4. Pull the grille forward and disconnect all wiring. 5. Remove all seven metal clips from the metal frame and reinstall them to the tabs on the back side of the grille.
1. Remove four bolts from the belly pan using a 13MM socket and pull the belly pan down. 2. Using a 15MM socket, remove two bolts from the top side of the metal bumper just inside the headlight assembly on both sides. 3. Using a 15MM socket, remove two bolts from the bumper bracket. 4. Pull the bumper forward and unplug the electrical lines.
1. Reinstall the metal bumper and plug in all electrical connections. 2. Trim the belly pan as shown in the manual, then reinstall it. 3. Reinstall the grille and plug in all electrical connections. Ensure all electrical connections are plugged in and accessories are functioning properly before completing reinstallation.
1/2"-13 x 3-1/2" hex head bolts, Grade 5, zinc plated. Four of these bolts are included in the hardware kit (part number 201-0369).
1/2"-13 x 1-3/4" hex head bolts, Grade 5, zinc plated. Two of these bolts are included in the hardware kit (part number 201-0068).
A 17/32" drill bit is required to drill the lower holes into the frame on both sides of the vehicle according to the baseplate template.
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. Handle cosmetic parts carefully and use protective covers, rags, and specialty tools as needed to prevent damage.
Yes, the BX1656 is designed for 2004-12 Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon. If your vehicle's front looks different than shown in the manual, contact Blue Ox at (402) 385-3051.
You need: flat screwdriver, utility knife, torque wrench, drill, 17/32" drill bit, 13MM, 15MM, 18MM, and 3/4" sockets, 3/4" wrench, and Loctite Red.
Yes. You must drill lower frame holes on both sides using a 17/32" drill bit, and the belly pan must be trimmed during reinstallation.
78 foot-pounds for 1/2" Grade 5 bolts. Use Loctite Red on all bolt threads before tightening.
The baseplate is computer tested to your vehicle's GVWR. Exceeding this weight voids the warranty. Check your vehicle owner's manual for towing specifications.
Yes. Two class III safety cables are included and must be attached to the baseplate and secured to the vehicle's frame. They must not rub against hoses or moving parts.
Ensure the baseplate is level with the vehicle, all electrical connections are plugged in and functioning, and all bolts are tightened to specification with Loctite Red. Inspect for cracked welds, missing parts, and loose bolts before each towing trip.
Contact Blue Ox at (402) 385-3051 before proceeding with installation. Dimensional variations between otherwise identical vehicles can be considerable, and the manual notes that it may be necessary to tailor the baseplate slightly to compensate for vehicle manufacturer's tolerances.
Ensure the baseplate is level with the vehicle before temporarily tightening the bolts in the tow hook holes. If the baseplate is not level, loosen the bolts and reposition the baseplate until it is properly aligned and level before proceeding with drilling the lower holes.
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