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Blue Ox
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2013 - 2016 Volkswagen Beetle
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Custom Designed For Your Vehicle
Material: Steel
Color: Black
Finish: Powder Coat
Mounting Type: Bolt On
Mounting Hardware Included Yes/No: Yes
The Blue Ox BX3835 Tow Bar Bracket is a crucial automotive accessory for those who need a robust and reliable solution for towing. Crafted from sturdy steel and finished with a resilient black powder coat, this bracket is designed to withstand the harshest conditions. The BX3835 is not just about strength, it's about compatibility and convenience too. With its custom design, it perfectly fits each specific towed vehicle. Furthermore, the bolt-on mounting type simplifies the installation process. When you purchase this Blue Ox base plate, it comes complete with all necessary hardware and easy-to-follow installation instructions.
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
1 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 - 2016 | Volkswagen Beetle | Comes with Removable Attachment Tabs Install Rating 3 Bumper Fascia Must Be Removed/Replaced During Install Minor Drilling Required One Piece Standard Design |
Yes, the BlueOx Tow Bar Base Plate, Front Mount, RV Flat Towing for Select, VW BEETLE TURBO (Part #FDRWBX3835) is designed to fit the 2013-2016 Volkswagen Beetle.
The BlueOx Tow Bar Base Plate, Front Mount, RV Flat Towing for Select, VW BEETLE TURBO (Part #FDRWBX3835) fits the following vehicles: 2013-2016 Volkswagen Beetle. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The BlueOx Tow Bar Base Plate, Front Mount, RV Flat Towing for Select, VW BEETLE TURBO (Part #FDRWBX3835) fits 2013-2016 Volkswagen Beetle models. The 2016 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, VW BEETLE TURBO (Part #FDRWBX3835) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
Yes, the BX3835 is designed for 2013-2016 VW Beetle models and includes turbo versions. However, 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.
The attachment tab height is 13-1/2" and the attachment tab width is 23".
Required tools include: Large Vise Grip, Flat Screwdriver, Utility Knife, Reciprocating Saw, Torque Wrench, Drill, Tape Measure, Loctite RED, 13/32" Drill Bit, 1-1/4" Hole Saw, 13MM Socket, 9/16" Socket, T25 Torx, and T50 Torx.
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 Blue Ox Technical Service at (402) 385-3051.
The fascia (front bumper cover) and horns must be removed for baseplate installation and will be reinstalled after. The radiator cover, air temperature sensor, and horn brackets must also be removed during installation. All removed items should be placed on a flat, sturdy surface and will be reinstalled unless otherwise noted.
Yes. Drilling is required. You will drill three holes through the frame on each side using a 13/32" drill bit, and drill a 1-1/4" hole in the brace for nut plate installation on each side. Trimming of the brace and fascia is also required.
You must: (1) remove the tab the horn was attached to flush with the body by bending back and forth with vise-grips or using a reciprocating saw; (2) cut an opening in the brace approximately 1-1/2" down from the top to the rib and approximately 3/4" from the sides on both braces; (3) trim material from the rib on the backside of the fascia for baseplate clearance on both sides; and (4) trim the fascia around the convenience links and attachment tabs.
No, it is optional. You can remove the horn tab either by bending it back and forth with vise-grips or by using a reciprocating saw. If using a reciprocating saw, be aware of the fluid reservoir on the passenger side when cutting.
Torque specifications for metric bolts are: 6MM Grade 8.8: 6 ft-lbs, Grade 10.9: 8 ft-lbs; 8MM Grade 8.8: 16 ft-lbs, Grade 10.9: 22 ft-lbs; 10MM Grade 8.8: 31 ft-lbs, Grade 10.9: 40 ft-lbs; 12MM Grade 8.8: 54 ft-lbs, Grade 10.9: 70 ft-lbs; 14MM Grade 8.8: 89 ft-lbs, Grade 10.9: 117 ft-lbs; 16MM Grade 8.8: 161 ft-lbs, Grade 10.9: 230 ft-lbs; 18MM Grade 8.8: 222 ft-lbs, Grade 10.9: 318 ft-lbs.
Torque specifications for inch bolts are: 1/4" Grade 5: 10 ft-lbs, Grade 8: 14 ft-lbs; 5/16" Grade 5: 19 ft-lbs, Grade 8: 29 ft-lbs; 3/8" Grade 5: 33 ft-lbs, Grade 8: 47 ft-lbs; 7/16" Grade 5: 54 ft-lbs, Grade 8: 78 ft-lbs; 1/2" Grade 5: 78 ft-lbs, Grade 8: 119 ft-lbs; 5/8" Grade 5: 154 ft-lbs, Grade 8: 230 ft-lbs; 3/4" Grade 5: 257 ft-lbs, Grade 8: 380 ft-lbs.
Follow this sequence: (1) Remove four push pins from the top edge of the radiator cover (two on each side) and remove the cover; (2) Using T25 Torx, remove six screws at the top of the fascia (three on each side); (3) In the wheel well, use T25 Torx to remove three screws on both sides; (4) Behind the wheel well cover, remove one upper fascia screw with T25 Torx on both sides; (5) Using T25 Torx, remove eight screws from the underside of the fascia (three on each side, two in the middle); (6) Pull the fascia straight out and unhook both the side marker and running light wiring on both sides.
Slide the notched braces onto the baseplate and rotate into position on the vehicle. Start the outer existing brace bolt and an 8MM-1.25 x 30MM bolt with an 8MM flat and lock washer into the underside hole of the baseplate on both sides. Level and clamp the baseplate into position before fully tightening all fasteners.
On each side, install three 3/8"-16 x 1-1/4" bolts with 3/8" lock washers through the frame into 3/8"-16 nut plates on the inside of the frame. Additionally, install a 1/2"-13 x 1" bolt with a 1/2"-13 whiz lock nut in the existing frame hole, and an 8MM-1.25 x 30MM bolt with an 8MM flat and lock washer into the underside hole of the baseplate.
First, flatten the horn bracket with a hammer on a solid surface. Then remove the side tab with pliers or vise-grips by twisting back and forth. Drill a hole through the brace and install the horn bracket to the brace. Remove the horn from the bracket, bend the bracket around, reinstall the horn to the bracket, and reconnect the wiring. Repeat on both sides.
The permanent baseplate safety cables prevent the towed vehicle from breaking loose in the event the connection between the frame and the 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. Each cable must have an adequate weight rating for the towing system. Safety cables are strongly recommended and must be used in conjunction with, not as a replacement for, legally required safety cables attaching the towed vehicle to the towing vehicle.
Attach the permanent baseplate safety cables to the provided convenience link on the baseplate. The manual shows the recommended installation of the cables to the frame of the vehicle. If additional options interfere with the suggested mounting, secure the cables to a solid piece of the frame as described in the instructions included with the permanent baseplate safety cables. Be sure the safety cables do not rub against any hoses or moving parts. Do this on both sides of the vehicle.
Do not mount the permanent baseplate safety cables against wires, hoses or brake lines. The installer must 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 against a wire or hose, it could cause fluid leaks or electrical shorts some time after installation.
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. Be sure to use Loctite RED on all bolts and tighten to the recommended specifications. The baseplate should be registered online at www.blueox.com to receive alerts about product offerings, updates, upgrades, maintenance and safety bulletins, and recalls.
The baseplate is computer tested to your vehicle's GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). Exceeding this weight will void the manufacturer's warranty. Reference your vehicle owner's manual for manufacturer's towing specifications.
The kit includes: 6 nut plates with 14" wire (61-5208), 2 attachment tab assemblies (62-3468), 1 breakaway bracket (102-7056), 1 bolt 1/4"-20 x 3/4" Grade 5 (201-0050), 2 bolts 1/2"-13 x 1" Grade 5 (201-0060), 2 screws #10-32 1/2" (201-0192), 6 bolts 3/8"-16 x 1-1/4" Grade 5 (201-0368), 2 bolts 8MM-1.25 x 30MM Grade 8.8 (201-0446), 1 screw #10-16 x 1" self-drilling (201-0654), 2 screws #12-14 x 1" self-drilling (201-0979), 2 hex nuts #10-32 (202-0047), 2 hex flange whiz lock nuts 1/2"-13 (202-0072), 1 hex nylon nut 1/4"-20 (202-0102), 6 lock washers 3/8" (203-0010), 2 lock washers #10 (203-0054), 2 lock washers 8MM (203-0102), 2 flat washers 8MM (203-0107), 1 electrical bracket (299-0685), 2 class III safety cables (226-0046), 2 quicklinks 3/8" (229-0359), and 2 black cap plug receivers (290-0437).
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. Contact Blue Ox at (402) 385-3051 or your Blue Ox Dealer to confirm whether the wiring kit must be purchased separately.
Always use the hardware supplied in the hardware kit and existing hardware as specified in the installation instructions. Even though bolts may already be present on the vehicle, do not assume they are adequate for baseplate mounting. Use only the fasteners specified in the instructions.
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 your vehicle.
Handling of some cosmetic parts when installing this product may require the use of protective covers, rags, specialty tools, etc. to prevent damage. Place all removed components on a flat, sturdy surface.
Be sure that ALL electrical connections are plugged in and accessories are functioning properly before reinstalling the fascia. This includes the side marker and running light wiring that was disconnected during removal.
Remove the air temperature sensor from the bumper and set it aside during installation. After the baseplate is installed, reinstall the air temperature sensor. Note that the bracket may need to be bent out slightly to reinstall the sensor.
Use an 8MM-1.25 x 30MM bolt with an 8MM flat washer and 8MM lock washer into the underside hole of the baseplate. Also reinstall the second upper brace bolt and the two lower screws. Fully tighten the upper bolts, lower screws, and the 8MM bolt on the underside of the baseplate on both sides.
Yes. Remove the attachment tabs when not in use, if applicable.
If a bolt is lost or in need of replacement, use a replacement bolt of the same grade as the original. In most cases it will be Grade 5. Replacement parts may be ordered through your nearest Blue Ox Dealer or Distributor. Using non-genuine replacement parts or bolts of incorrect grade will void the manufacturer's warranty.
The baseplate is computer tested to your vehicle's GVWR; exceeding this weight voids the warranty. Failing to follow and/or altering these installation instructions in either installation or required equipment will void the warranty. Towing behind a non-motorized vehicle will void the warranty. If the baseplate is in an accident, it must be replaced and cannot be reused.
Yes, the BX3835 is designed for 2013-2016 VW Beetle models including turbo versions. Contact Blue Ox at (402) 385-3051 if your vehicle's front looks different than shown in the manual.
Yes. You will drill three holes per side through the frame using a 13/32" bit, and drill a 1-1/4" hole in each brace for nut plate installation. Trimming of the brace and fascia is also required.
Required tools include: Torque Wrench, Drill with 13/32" and 1-1/4" hole saw bits, Reciprocating Saw, T25 and T50 Torx, 13MM and 9/16" sockets, Large Vise Grip, Utility Knife, Flat Screwdriver, Tape Measure, and Loctite RED.
The fascia (front bumper cover), radiator cover, horns, horn brackets, air temperature sensor, and foam fascia support pieces must be removed. All items except those noted are reinstalled after baseplate installation.
3/8" Grade 5 bolts should be torqued to 33 foot-pounds. Always use Loctite RED on all bolt threads before tightening.
Safety cables are strongly recommended. They must be connected from the baseplate to the frame rail or cross member and are used in addition to, not as a replacement for, legally required safety cables. Do not mount cables against wires, hoses or brake lines.
Before each towing trip, inspect for cracked welds, missing or worn parts, and loose bolts. Tighten all bolts to specification using Loctite RED. Register your product at www.blueox.com for safety bulletins and recalls.
The baseplate is computer tested to your vehicle's GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). Exceeding this weight voids the warranty. Reference your vehicle owner's manual for manufacturer's towing specifications.
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