BlueOx Tow Bar Base Plate, Front Mount, RV Flat Towing for Select, FORD RANGERBlue OxOut of Stock
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1999 - 2000, 2002 - 2003, 2005 - 2006 Ford Ranger
Confirmed to Fit
1998, 2000 - 2001, 2004 Ford Ranger
Confirmed to Fit
2002 - 2005 Mazda B2300
Confirmed to Fit
2001 Mazda B2300
Confirmed to Fit
2000 - 2001 Mazda B2500
Confirmed to Fit
2000 - 2002, 2005 Mazda B3000
Confirmed to Fit
2002 Mazda B3000
Confirmed to Fit
2000, 2003 - 2004 Mazda B3000
Confirmed to Fit
1998 - 2003 Mazda B4000
Confirmed to Fit
1999, 2001 Mazda B4000
Confirmed to Fit
1979 - 1980 Mazda GLC
Confirmed to Fit
1978 Mazda GLC
Confirmed to Fit
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Custom-designed for each specific towed vehicle, offering a perfect fit and optimal performance.
Material: Steel
Color: Black
Finish: Powder Coat
Mounting Type: Bolt On
Mounting Hardware Included Yes/No: Yes
The Blue Ox BX2170 Tow Bar Bracket is a robust and reliable solution for all your towing needs. Expertly engineered and custom designed for each specific towed vehicle, this tow bar bracket offers a perfect fit. It is made from high-quality steel, ensuring maximum strength and durability. The bracket features a powder coat finish in black, bestowing it with a sleek look while also enhancing its corrosion resistance. The Blue Ox BX2170 Tow Bar Bracket comes with all the necessary mounting hardware and a comprehensive installation guide, making it a breeze to install. Its bolt-on mounting type ensures a secure fit and excellent stability, making your towing experience safer and more efficient.
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
12 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1999 - 2000, 2002 - 2003, 2005 - 2006 | Ford Ranger | No Northland Edition Comes with Standard Attachment Tabs Install Rating 3 Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install Minor Drilling Required Requires Some Trimming of the Air Dam |
| 1998, 2000 - 2001, 2004 | Ford Ranger | Requires Some Trimming of the Air Dam Minor Drilling Required Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install Install Rating 3 Comes with Standard Attachment Tabs No Northland Edition |
| 2002 - 2005 | Mazda B2300 | Comes with Standard Attachment Tabs Install Rating 3 Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install Minor Drilling Required Requires Some Trimming of the Air Dam |
| 2001 | Mazda B2300 | Requires Some Trimming of the Air Dam Minor Drilling Required Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install Install Rating 3 Comes with Standard Attachment Tabs |
| 2000 - 2001 | Mazda B2500 | Comes with Standard Attachment Tabs Install Rating 3 Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install Minor Drilling Required Requires Some Trimming of the Air Dam |
| 2000 - 2002, 2005 | Mazda B3000 | Comes with Standard Attachment Tabs Install Rating 3 Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install Minor Drilling Required Requires Some Trimming of the Air Dam |
| 2002 | Mazda B3000 | Comes with Standard Attachment Tabs Install Rating 3 Requires Some Trimming of the Air Dam Minor Drilling Required Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install |
| 2000, 2003 - 2004 | Mazda B3000 | Requires Some Trimming of the Air Dam Minor Drilling Required Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install Install Rating 3 Comes with Standard Attachment Tabs |
| 1998 - 2003 | Mazda B4000 | Comes with Standard Attachment Tabs Install Rating 3 Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install Minor Drilling Required Requires Some Trimming of the Air Dam |
| 1999, 2001 | Mazda B4000 | Requires Some Trimming of the Air Dam Minor Drilling Required Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install Install Rating 3 Comes with Standard Attachment Tabs |
| 1979 - 1980 | Mazda GLC | Comes with Standard Attachment Tabs Install Rating 3 Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install Minor Drilling Required Requires Some Trimming of the Air Dam |
| 1978 | Mazda GLC | Comes with Standard Attachment Tabs Requires Some Trimming of the Air Dam Minor Drilling Required Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install Install Rating 3 |
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Yes, the BlueOx Tow Bar Base Plate For Select FORD RANGER BX2170 (Part #FDRWBX2170) is designed to fit the 1998-2006 Ford Ranger.
The BlueOx Tow Bar Base Plate For Select FORD RANGER BX2170 (Part #FDRWBX2170) fits the following vehicles: 1998-2006 Ford Ranger; 2001-2005 Mazda B2300; 2000-2001 Mazda B2500; 2000-2005 Mazda B3000; 1998-2003 Mazda B4000; 1978-1980 Mazda GLC. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The BlueOx Tow Bar Base Plate For Select FORD RANGER BX2170 (Part #FDRWBX2170) fits 1998-2006 Ford Ranger models. The 2006 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 For Select FORD RANGER BX2170 (Part #FDRWBX2170) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
Yes, the BX2170 fits 1998-2006 Ford Ranger Pickup 2WD models (excluding Northland Edition). Confirm your vehicle is not a Northland Edition before purchasing.
Yes, the BX2170 is compatible with 2000 Ford Ranger Pickup 4WD (excluding Northland Edition). This is the only 4WD model year supported.
Yes, the BX2170 fits 2000-2005 Mazda B2300/B3000 in both 2WD and 4WD configurations.
No. The BX2170 fits 2000-2003 Mazda B2500/B4000 only. Your 2006 model is outside the supported range.
The BX2170 has standard 24" wide attachment tabs. The RangeFinder II, Ambassador, Adventurer and Acclaim tow bars are mentioned in the manual. The RangeFinder II and Adventurer may require an additional 5/16" hole to be drilled in the attachment tabs. The Ambassador and Acclaim may require an adapter if tabs are not 24" wide. The BX88152 adapter cannot be used with this baseplate. Consult the tow bar instructions for specific compatibility.
No. The BX88152 adapter cannot be used with the BX2170 baseplate.
Required tools: drill, 13/32" drill bit, 17/32" drill bit, 10MM socket, 18MM socket, 9/16" socket, and 3/4" socket. Loctite RED is also required for all bolts.
The kit includes: 1 BX2170 baseplate, 2 support plates (driver and passenger side), 6 nut plate weldments (1/2"), 2 nut plate weldments (1/2"), 4 nut plate weldments (3/8" with wire), 6 bolts (1/2"-13 x 1-1/2" Grade 5), 6 lock washers (1/2"), 4 flat washers (1/2"), 4 bolts (3/8"-16 x 1-1/4" Grade 5), 4 bolts (3/8"-16 x 1-1/2" Grade 5), 2 lock washers (3/8"), 4 hex nuts (3/8"-16), 2 self-drilling screws (#12-14 x 1"), 2 slot round head screws (#10-32 x 1/2"), 2 lock washers (#10), 2 hex nuts (#10), 2 four-way connectors, and 2 Class III safety cables.
The BX8869 Bulb and Socket wiring kit is recommended for this vehicle but not listed as required.
Yes. Installation requires removing and reinstalling the bumper and belly pan. The bumper is held by four hex nuts on the end of the frame rails, which are removed using an 18MM socket.
Blue Ox recommends that installation be performed 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 is required. You must drill two 17/32" holes in the frame side of the end pieces to match the round holes in the baseplate end pieces. Additionally, you must drill two 13/32" holes into the bottom of the frame using the plate support as a template.
Yes. Trimming is required. The lower plastic air dam must be trimmed for the attachment tabs to protrude. Additionally, the plastic on the front bumper must be trimmed where the attachment tabs will protrude out.
Yes. Trimming of the belly pan is required as part of the installation process.
The manual notes that dimensional variations between otherwise identical vehicles can be considerable. Minor adjustments may include filing a hole slightly, bending electrical rods, and/or bending end plates to tailor the baseplate to compensate for auto manufacturer's tolerances.
The manual provides a general torque chart for 1/2" bolts: Grade 5 bolts should be torqued to 78 foot-pounds, and Grade 8 bolts to 119 foot-pounds. However, the manual references a separate 'Baseplate General Towing Instructions sheet' for the specific torque chart and does not confirm which grade applies to the 1/2"-13 bolts supplied with the BX2170. Consult the General Instructions sheet or contact Blue Ox Technical Service at (402) 385-3051 for the exact specification.
The manual provides a general torque chart for 3/8" bolts: Grade 5 bolts should be torqued to 33 foot-pounds, and Grade 8 bolts to 47 foot-pounds. The manual references the 'Baseplate General Towing Instructions sheet' for the specific torque chart. Consult that sheet or contact Blue Ox Technical Service at (402) 385-3051 for the exact specification for the 3/8"-16 bolts used in the plate support assembly.
The BX2170 attachment tabs are 17" in height and 24" in width.
The baseplate mounts to the frame using six 1/2"-13 bolts. Four of these bolts go into slotted holes and use nut plates. Two bolts go into drilled holes and use nut wires.
Yes. You must apply Loctite RED to all bolts before tightening them.
1. Remove the bumper by removing four hex nuts with an 18MM socket. 2. Hold the baseplate in position and mark the location of the two round holes in the side of the end pieces. 3. Remove the baseplate and drill 17/32" holes in these marked locations. 4. Position the baseplate on the frame again and start the bolts, using flat washers to cover the slots. Apply Loctite RED to all bolts before tightening. 5. Align the holes of the plate support to the outside of the baseplate end, insert the 3/8" hex bolt, fasten the lock washer and hex nut on both sides. 6. Using the plate support as a template, drill 13/32" holes into the bottom of the frame on both sides. 7. Tighten all bolts according to the torque chart. 8. Hold the bumper up to its original position, mark where the attachment tabs will protrude, trim the plastic on the front bumper, and reinstall the bumper.
Start all bolts first, then tighten completely. The manual states 'When all bolts are started, tighten completely.' All bolts must be tightened according to the torque chart.
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 of the vehicle's frame. 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.
Watch for oil cooler and air conditioner lines, electrical wires and hoses, and missing parts or attaching points on the frame. If the baseplate is improperly installed and is against a wire or hose, it could cause fluid leaks or electrical shorts some time after installation.
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.
Yes. Remove the attachment tabs when not in use, if applicable.
Yes. It is crucial to register your product online at www.blueox.com so that you may be alerted of product offerings, updates, upgrades, maintenance and safety bulletins, and/or recalls.
The BX2170 has 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. To validate coverage, the customer warranty card must be returned within 30 days of purchase, and a copy of the original invoice showing date and place of purchase must accompany any warranty claim. The warranty is non-transferable.
The warranty does not cover incorrect or improper installation, improper use, modification or neglect of product, failure to properly service and maintain, misuse, act of God, accident or failure to follow guidelines in the instructional material. It also does not cover normal wear and tear, paint or rust. The warranty does not cover loss of use, loss of time, inconvenience, mileage, transportation expense, return shipping, mechanics travel time, telephone, road service, towing, rental during repairs, travel, lodging, loss or damage to personal property or loss of earnings.
Yes. Towing behind a non-motorized vehicle will void the warranty.
If a bolt is lost or in need of replacement, use a replacement bolt of the same grade. In most cases it will be Grade 5. Replacement parts may be ordered through your nearest Blue Ox Dealer or Distributor. For your safety and the preservation of your baseplate, do not use homemade or non-typical parts.
No. Failing to follow and/or altering these installation instructions in either installation or required equipment will void the manufacturer's warranty.
The BX2170 fits 1998-2006 Ford Ranger 2WD, 2000 Ford Ranger 4WD, 2000-2005 Mazda B2300/B3000, 2000-2003 Mazda B2500/B4000, and 1978-1980 Mazda GLC Sedan (excluding Northland Edition Ford Rangers). Confirm your exact year, model and edition before purchasing.
You need a drill, 13/32" and 17/32" drill bits, 10MM, 18MM, 9/16" and 3/4" sockets, and Loctite RED.
Yes. You must drill two 17/32" holes in the frame and two 13/32" holes in the frame bottom. You must trim the plastic air dam and front bumper for the attachment tabs to protrude.
Yes. The bumper must be removed and reinstalled. It is held by four hex nuts on the frame rails, removed with an 18MM socket.
Permanent baseplate safety cables are strongly recommended. They must be connected from the baseplate to the frame rail or cross member and must not be mounted against wires, hoses or brake lines. They are in addition to, not a replacement for, legally required safety cables.
Inspect all towing equipment for cracked welds, missing or worn parts and loose bolts. Ensure all bolts are tightened to specification with Loctite RED.
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