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Blue Ox
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2015 Chevrolet Cruze
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2011 - 2014 Chevrolet Cruze
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Custom Designed: Each Blue Ox BX1698 Tow Bar Bracket is custom-made for each specific towed vehicle, ensuring a perfect fit and optimum performance.
Material: Steel
Color: Black
Finish: Powder Coat
Mounting Type: Bolt On
Mounting Hardware Included Yes/No: Yes
Designed with precision and durability in mind, the Blue Ox BX1698 Tow Bar Bracket is an essential component for owners who tow their vehicles. This tow bar bracket is custom-made for each specific towed vehicle, ensuring a perfect fit every time. Crafted from robust steel and finished with a black powder coat, it is built to withstand even the most challenging towing conditions. Its bolt-on mounting type and the inclusion of all necessary hardware make installation a breeze, even for the DIY enthusiast. The Blue Ox Tow Bar Bracket not only provides a secure connection for your towing needs, but also adds a sleek, professional look to your vehicle with its black finish.
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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3 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Chevrolet Cruze | Comes with Removable Attachment Tabs Install Rating 3 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 Baseplate Has Non 24 in. Spaced Attachment Tabs Requires Motorhome Mounted Towbar/Adapter To Utilize Car Mounted Tow Bar Tow Bar Adapters Not To Be Used On Vehicles Over 5000 lbs. 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 |
| 2011 - 2014 | Chevrolet Cruze | RS Models Comes with Removable Attachment Tabs Install Rating 3 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 Baseplate Has Non 24 in. Spaced Attachment Tabs Requires Motorhome Mounted Towbar/Adapter To Utilize Car Mounted Tow Bar Tow Bar Adapters Not To Be Used On Vehicles Over 5000 lbs. 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 |
| 2016 | Chevrolet Cruze Limited | Comes with Removable Attachment Tabs Install Rating 3 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 Baseplate Has Non 24 in. Spaced Attachment Tabs Requires Motorhome Mounted Towbar/Adapter To Utilize Car Mounted Tow Bar Tow Bar Adapters Not To Be Used On Vehicles Over 5000 lbs. 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 |
The BlueOx Tow Bar Base Plate, Front Mount, RV Flat Towing for Select, CHEVY CRUZE, RS (Part #FDRWBX1698) fits the following vehicles: 2011-2015 Chevrolet Cruze; 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The BlueOx Tow Bar Base Plate, Front Mount, RV Flat Towing for Select, CHEVY CRUZE, RS (Part #FDRWBX1698) fits 2011-2015 Chevrolet Cruze models. The 2016 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 CRUZE, RS (Part #FDRWBX1698) is designed to fit the 2011-2015 Chevrolet Cruze.
The BlueOx Tow Bar Base Plate, Front Mount, RV Flat Towing for Select, CHEVY CRUZE, RS (Part #FDRWBX1698) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
Yes, the BX1698 baseplate is designed for 2015 Chevy Cruze in all models. It is also compatible with 2011-14 Chevy Cruze RS and 2016 Chevy Cruze Limited (all models). Before purchasing, verify that your vehicle matches one of these model years and body styles. If the front of your vehicle looks different than shown in the manual, contact Blue Ox technical service at (402) 385-3051.
The attachment tab height is 14-1/4" and the attachment tab width is 20".
Required tools include: 10MM socket, 13MM socket, 18MM socket, 18MM wrench, 9/16" socket, 9/16" wrench, T20 Torx, 3/8" drill bit, 1-1/4" holesaw, torque wrench, drill, reciprocating saw, tape measure, large vise grip, flat screwdriver, utility knife, and Loctite Red. A 18MM wrench is needed for frame bolt removal.
Yes, the fascia must be removed and reinstalled during baseplate installation. The removal process involves removing fasteners from the corner, wheel well, underside, and push pins, then disconnecting electrical connections. The fascia is reinstalled after the baseplate is mounted, with trimming required around the convenience links and attachment tabs.
The following components must be removed: front fascia, air baffle (both passenger and driver sides), lower baffle, horn bracket with horn, and the wire loom from the frame on the driver side. The AC coolant line holder on the passenger side must also be disconnected. All items except the horn are reinstalled after baseplate installation.
Yes, drilling is required. You must drill a 1-1/4" hole through two layers in the face of the bumper on both sides for nut plate access (Step 16). You must also drill four additional 3/8" holes through the frame and bumper for baseplate mounting bolts (Step 19), and drill a new 1/4" hole in the frame face on the passenger side to relocate the coolant line (Step 20). A 3/8" drill bit and 1-1/4" holesaw are required.
Trim the plastic shielding flush with the bottom side of the bumper on both sides (Step 13). Make three slits in the frame face on both sides: one just below the upper flange, one at the middle bend, and one just above the lower bend (Step 14). Trim the fascia around the convenience links and attachment tabs during reinstallation (Step 23). The plate holder may also need trimming for electrical bracket installation.
Yes, you must bend the two tabs over and flatten them back to the face of the frame on both sides (Step 15). The cross piece behind the 1-1/4" hole may also need to be bent out of the way for nut plate access (Step 16). These are permanent modifications to the vehicle frame.
The manual provides a general torque chart for Grade 5 and Grade 8 bolts but does not specify the grade of the 3/8"-16 bolts used in the baseplate mounting. According to the chart, Grade 5 3/8" bolts should be torqued to 33 foot-pounds and Grade 8 to 47 foot-pounds. All bolts must be tightened with Loctite Red applied to threads. Contact Blue Ox technical service at (402) 385-3051 to confirm the correct torque specification for your specific installation.
According to the torque chart, Grade 5 1/4"-20 bolts should be torqued to 10 foot-pounds and Grade 8 to 14 foot-pounds. The 1/4" x 3/4" bolt used to attach the optional breakaway bracket is Grade 5. All bolts must have Loctite Red applied to threads before tightening.
The BX8869 Tail Light Wiring Kit is recommended for this vehicle. The manual instructs you to drill a hole according to the tail light wiring kit instructions. While not explicitly stated as required, the recommendation and drilling instruction suggest it should be installed for proper towing function.
The baseplate is computer tested to your vehicle's GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). Exceeding this weight will void the manufacturer's warranty. You must reference your vehicle owner's manual for the manufacturer's towing specifications and ensure you do not exceed the GVWR.
Permanent baseplate safety cables are strongly recommended when towing a vehicle with a tow bar. They prevent the towed vehicle from breaking loose if the connection between the frame and baseplate fails. The cables must be connected from the baseplate to the frame rail or cross member and must not mount against wires, hoses, or brake lines. The BX1698 includes two safety cables (part 226-0046) and convenience links (part 299-0685) for installation. These cables are in addition to, not a replacement for, legally required safety cables attaching the towed vehicle to the towing vehicle.
If the baseplate is in an accident, it must be replaced. Do not use it again. An accident can cause unseen damage, and using a damaged baseplate could result in more damage or serious injury. Do not use the baseplate if it is damaged or missing parts.
Before reinstalling the fascia, ensure all electrical connections are plugged in and accessories are functioning properly. Inspect that the baseplate is level and all holes are properly aligned. Verify that all bolts are fully tightened to the appropriate torque specifications with Loctite Red applied. Check that the safety cables do not rub against any hoses or moving parts. Ensure the fascia is trimmed properly around the convenience links and attachment tabs.
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. 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 recalls. Remove the attachment tabs when not in use.
The BX1698 includes: 8 nut plates with 14" wire (3/8"), 2 support plates (driver and passenger side), 1 baseplate, 2 attachment tab assemblies, 1 breakaway bracket, 1 1/4"-20 x 3/4" hex head bolt (Grade 5), 2 #10-32 1/2" round slotted head screws, 6 3/8"-16 x 1-1/2" hex head bolts (Grade 5), 4 3/8"-16 x 2" hex head bolts (Grade 5), 2 #10-16 x 1" self-drilling screws, 2 #12-14 x 1" self-drilling screws, 2 #10-32 hex nuts, 2 3/8"-16 hex nylon insert lock nuts, 1 1/4"-20 hex nylon nut, 10 3/8" lock washers, 2 #10 lock washers, 1 4-way bracket, 2 class III safety cables, 2 3/8" quicklinks, and 2 black cap plug receivers.
Always use the hardware supplied in the hardware kit and existing hardware as specified in the installation instructions. Do not assume existing bolts are adequate for baseplate mounting, even though bolts may already be present. The manual specifies which existing bolts to reuse (with Loctite Red applied) and which new supplied bolts to install in each location.
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. The installation requires specialized tools, knowledge of fit work, and handling of cosmetic parts that may require protective covers and specialty tools to prevent damage.
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. Use a good quality paint to spray cut edges of frame to prevent rusting. Handling of cosmetic parts may require protective covers and rags to prevent damage.
Blue Ox offers a three-year limited warranty from the date of delivery to the original retail purchaser. The warranty covers defects in material and workmanship under normal use and service. 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 does not cover incorrect or improper installation, improper use, modification, neglect, failure to maintain, misuse, accident, normal wear and tear, paint, or rust. The warranty is non-transferable. Register your warranty at http://blueox.com/warranty/.
Yes, the BX1698 is designed for 2015 Chevy Cruze in all models, as well as 2011-14 Cruze RS and 2016 Cruze Limited.
You need: 10MM, 13MM, 18MM sockets, 18MM wrench, 9/16" socket and wrench, T20 Torx, 3/8" drill bit, 1-1/4" holesaw, torque wrench, drill, reciprocating saw, tape measure, vise grip, screwdrivers, utility knife, and Loctite Red.
Yes. You must drill a 1-1/4" hole in the bumper on both sides, four 3/8" holes through the frame and bumper, and a 1/4" hole in the frame face on the passenger side. Trimming of plastic shielding and frame is also required.
Yes, the fascia must be removed and reinstalled. This involves removing fasteners, disconnecting electrical connections, and trimming around the attachment tabs.
Yes, two class III safety cables and convenience links are included. They are strongly recommended and must be connected from the baseplate to the frame rail or cross member, not against wires or hoses.
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.
Inspect for cracked welds, missing or worn parts, and loose bolts before each towing trip. Tighten all bolts with Loctite Red to recommended torque. Register your product at www.blueox.com for safety bulletins and recalls.
The BX8869 is recommended for the BX1698 installation. The manual instructs drilling a hole per the wiring kit instructions.
The dimensional variations between otherwise identical vehicles can be considerable. While the baseplate was designed for easy installation, it may be necessary to tailor the baseplate slightly to compensate for vehicle manufacturer's tolerances. During Step 17, loosen the clamps and align the baseplate and support plate holes. Once the holes are aligned and the baseplate is level, re-clamp the baseplate to the bumper. If alignment issues persist, contact Blue Ox Technical Service at (402) 385-3051.
All bolts must be tightened with Loctite Red applied to threads and torqued to the appropriate specifications. Before each towing trip, inspect all towing equipment for loose bolts and tighten them to the recommended specifications with Loctite Red. If bolts repeatedly loosen, ensure Loctite Red is being applied to all bolt threads and that bolts are being torqued to the correct specification according to the torque chart provided in the manual.
During Step 23, hold the fascia as close to its original position as possible, mark and trim the fascia around the convenience links and attachment tabs, then reinstall the fascia. The plate holder may need to be trimmed for electrical bracket installation. If the fascia still does not fit properly after trimming, contact Blue Ox Technical Service at (402) 385-3051.
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