Best Base Plate For Towing: Compare Vehicle-Specific Fits

Best Base Plate For Towing

A strong towing base plate provides vehicle-specific attachment points for a compatible tow bar and suits drivers setting up a car, Jeep, truck or SUV for flat towing behind an RV. The Roadmaster 521453-5 Direct Connect Base Plates lead this selection for buyers with a compatible Gladiator or Wrangler JL, combining broad listed fitment with an installation design that uses fewer holes and components to remove. Fit is the first decision: these options cover different model generations and bumper configurations, so a similar-looking vehicle is not enough to establish compatibility.

This roundup also includes Blue Ox plates for several Jeep and Ford applications, plus CURT and aftermarket alternatives. Compare the exact vehicle and bumper fit, attachment style, material and installation notes before choosing; a base plate that does not match your vehicle is not a suitable towing connection.

The Roadmaster 521453-5 Direct Connect Base Plates are the best overall choice here for owners of compatible Gladiator or Wrangler JL models. They offer listed fitment across both vehicle lines, use alloy steel and are designed to install with fewer holes to drill and components to remove than comparable systems. Their direct-connect design and compatibility range make them a strong starting point, but confirm your exact trim and tow-bar connection before ordering.

For other Jeeps, older Wrangler generations, or an F-150, choose a plate listed for that specific application instead.

Our Top Picks

Roadmaster 521453-5 Base PlatesBest Overall

Roadmaster 521453-5 Base Plates

Listed for Gladiator and Wrangler JL applications, with alloy-steel construction and a design intended to reduce holes drilled and components removed.

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Blue Ox BX1139 BaseplateBest JL Fit

Blue Ox BX1139 Baseplate

Specifically fits Wrangler JL models; its hidden design, twist-off arms and no-welding installation notes suit buyers seeking a clean, removable connection.

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Blue Ox BX1145 BaseplateBest Gladiator Fit

Blue Ox BX1145 Baseplate

A dedicated Gladiator base plate made from alloy steel, with a listed 40-pound product weight and three-year manufacturer warranty.

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Compare Base Plates by Vehicle Fit and Connection Style

#ProductMaterialWeightCompatible with Vehicle TypeBuy
1Alloy Steel—SUVView on Amazon
2Stainless Steel40 lb—View on Amazon
3
Blue Ox BX1145 Baseplate3. Blue Ox BX1145 BaseplateBest Gladiator Fit
Alloy Steel40 lb—View on Amazon
4Alloy Steel2.8 lbJeep Wrangler/Wrangler Unlimited (JK) with…View on Amazon
5
Blue Ox BX1134 Baseplate5. Blue Ox BX1134 BaseplateJK owners with ARB Stubby Bar
—35 lbCarView on Amazon
6
Sunluway BX1126 Base Plate6. Sunluway BX1126 Base PlateJK owners seeking tow-bar options
Alloy Steel——View on Amazon
7—36.4 lb—View on Amazon
8
Blue Ox BX2686 Baseplate8. Blue Ox BX2686 BaseplateF-150 owners wanting a tidy front
Alloy Steel25 lbTruckView on Amazon
9
Blue Ox BX1120 Base Plate9. Blue Ox BX1120 Base PlateOlder Wrangler owners with Rugged Ridge bumper
Alloy Steel33 lbCarView on Amazon
10
CURT 70101 Tow Bar Base Plate10. CURT 70101 Tow Bar Base PlateSelect Durango and Grand Cherokee owners
Carbon Steel33 lbSport Utility VehicleView on Amazon

Detailed Reviews: Best Base Plate For Towing

Roadmaster 521453-5 Base Plates

#1 · Best Overall

1. Roadmaster 521453-5 Base Plates

  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Compatible with Vehicle Type: SUV

Best for: Newer Gladiator and JL owners.

Why it ranks #1: Listed for Gladiator and Wrangler JL applications, with alloy-steel construction and a design intended to reduce holes drilled and components removed.

Installation up to 30 percent faster on average than comparable systems is Roadmaster’s most concrete differentiator for the 521453-5 Direct Connect Base Plates. The design uses fewer holes to drill and fewer components to remove, aiming to reduce the work involved in preparing an eligible vehicle for flat towing.

Roadmaster lists compatibility with 2020–2025 Gladiator models and 2018–2025 Wrangler JL models, with the named trims including Gladiator Sport, Sport S, Overland, Rubicon, and High Altitude. Its installation approach connects to existing holes and fasteners wherever possible, which supports the stated reduction in drilling and component removal. Computer-simulated Finite Element Analysis is also listed as part of structural integrity testing, giving buyers another specification to weigh alongside vehicle fit and installation workflow.

Pros
  • Fits listed 2020–2025 Gladiator and 2018–2025 Wrangler JL applications
  • Installs up to 30 percent faster on average than comparable systems
  • Fewer holes to drill and components to remove
  • Design undergoes computer-simulated Finite Element Analysis
Cons
  • The supplied details do not list compatible tow-bar models.

Skip it if you need a named tow-bar compatibility list; the supplied Roadmaster details do not specify one.

Owners of listed Gladiator or Wrangler JL applications seeking fewer installation steps may value this Direct Connect design. Check the model and trim application carefully, and account for tow-bar compatibility as a separate selection consideration.

Full product details
BrandRoadmaster
Compatible with Vehicle TypeSUV
Included ComponentsBase Plate
ManufacturerRoadmaster
Part Number521453-5
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionManufacturer Warranty
MaterialAlloy Steel
Model Number521453-5

Listed on Amazon as: Roadmaster 521453-5 Direct Connect Base Plates Compatible with 2020-2025 Gladiator Sport, Sport S, Overland, Rubicon, High Altitude and 2018-2025 Wrangler JL Rubicon, Altitude, Sahara, Sport S & Sport

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Blue Ox BX1139 Baseplate

#2 · Best JL Fit

2. Blue Ox BX1139 Baseplate

  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Weight: 40 lb

Best for: JL owners wanting removable arms.

Why it ranks #2: Specifically fits Wrangler JL models; its hidden design, twist-off arms and no-welding installation notes suit buyers seeking a clean, removable connection.

Twist-off arms let the Blue Ox BX1139 leave the front of a Wrangler JL unobstructed when the vehicle is not being flat towed. Its hidden design keeps brackets from protruding past the vehicle’s front, making a tidy appearance a central benefit for owners who alternate between towing and everyday driving.

The BX1139 is listed for 2018–2025 Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited JL models. Its arms remove with a simple twist, and receiver covers keep dirt and debris out of the base plate when those arms are off, supporting a cleaner transition between towing and regular use. The plate bolts securely to the chassis, and the listing says installation requires no welding. Stainless-steel construction is specified, while the supplied information does not name compatible tow-bar models.

Pros
  • Fits listed 2018–2025 Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited JL models
  • Arms remove with a simple twist
  • Receiver covers keep dirt and debris out
  • Stainless-steel construction; no welding required
Cons
  • The supplied information does not list compatible tow-bar models.

Skip it if you need a specified tow-bar compatibility list; the BX1139 details provided do not name compatible models.

JL owners who want removable towing arms and a tidy front between trips may appreciate the BX1139’s covers and hidden design. Its listed fit is limited to Wrangler JL applications, and tow-bar compatibility is not specified.

Full product details
BrandBlue Ox
Included ComponentsReplacement Parts – Underhood;Uncategorized – Underhood;automotive-replacement-parts
Item Dimensions35.5 x 13 x 12 inches
Item Weight40 pounds
Dimensions35.5 x 13 x 12 inches
ManufacturerBlue Ox
Part NumberBX1139
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionManufacturer Warranty
MaterialStainless Steel
Model NumberBX1139

Listed on Amazon as: Blue Ox BX1139 Baseplate fits 2018 2025 Wrangler/Wrangler Unlimited JL | Straightforward Installation, No Welding Required | Keep Dirt and Debris Out

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Blue Ox BX1145 Baseplate

#3 · Best Gladiator Fit

3. Blue Ox BX1145 Baseplate

  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Weight: 40 lb

Best for: Jeep Gladiator owners.

Why it ranks #3: A dedicated Gladiator base plate made from alloy steel, with a listed 40-pound product weight and three-year manufacturer warranty.

Alloy-steel construction is the defining feature of the Blue Ox BX1145, giving Jeep Gladiator owners a base plate made from a specified durable material for their towing setup. Its included component is the base plate itself, so this is a vehicle-specific starting point for connecting a Gladiator to a flat-towing arrangement.

The BX1145 is listed specifically for the Jeep Gladiator, which makes vehicle application the key fit consideration for buyers. Its alloy-steel material provides the base plate’s structural construction, while the stated 35-by-12-by-13-inch dimensions give a sense of the component’s physical size for handling and installation planning. At 40 pounds, it is a substantial part to position; the supplied listing does not provide installation steps or tow-bar compatibility details.

Pros
  • Specified for Jeep Gladiator
  • Alloy-steel construction
  • Base plate is the included component
  • Dimensions listed as 35 x 12 x 13 inches
Cons
  • The supplied listing does not identify compatible tow-bar models.

Skip it if you need a listed tow-bar compatibility range or installation instructions; neither is supplied for this Gladiator-specific plate.

Gladiator owners seeking an alloy-steel base plate can consider the BX1145 as a vehicle-specific option. Its listing leaves tow-bar compatibility and installation details unspecified, so those points remain important boundaries when choosing a complete flat-towing setup.

Full product details
BrandBlue Ox
ColorBlack
Included ComponentsBase Plate
Item Dimensions35 x 12 x 13 inches
Item Weight40 pounds
Dimensions35 x 12 x 13 inches
ManufacturerBlue Ox
Part NumberBX1145
Manufacturer Warranty Description3 YEARS
MaterialAlloy Steel
Model NumberBX1145

Listed on Amazon as: Blue Ox BX1145 Basepate for Jeep Gladiator, Black

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Blue Ox BX1126 Base Plate

#4 · Best JK Fit

4. Blue Ox BX1126 Base Plate

  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Weight: 2.8 lb
  • Compatible with Vehicle Type: Jeep Wrangler/Wrangler Unlimited (JK) with…

Best for: JK owners with standard bumpers.

Why it ranks #4: Fits Wrangler JK models with a standard bumper and includes mounting hardware; installation notes disclose that some drilling and trimming are required.

Removable arms and receiver covers give the Blue Ox BX1126 a practical advantage when a Jeep Wrangler JK is not being flat towed: the arms come off, and covers keep dirt and debris out. Its hidden design also leaves a seamless-looking front when towing hardware is removed.

This base plate fits 2007–2018 Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited JK models with a standard bumper, and it is explicitly not for JL vehicles. The plate bolts to the chassis using included mounting hardware, with no welding required, supporting a more straightforward installation workflow. However, the belly pan and metal bumper must be removed and reinstalled, and some drilling and trimming are required. Removable arms and receiver covers help keep the front tidy between towing trips.

Pros
  • Fits 2007–2018 Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited JK with standard bumper
  • Removable arms leave a hidden, seamless look
  • Receiver covers keep dirt and debris out
  • No welding required; mounting hardware is included
Cons
  • Installation requires some drilling and trimming, plus removal and reinstallation of the belly pan and metal bumper.

Skip it if you have a JL or a nonstandard bumper; this BX1126 is specified for JK models with a standard bumper.

This suits JK Wrangler owners with a standard bumper who want removable arms and a discreet front when not towing. Account for the listed drilling, trimming, and bumper and belly-pan removal before planning installation.

Full product details
BrandBlue Ox
Compatible with Vehicle TypeJeep Wrangler/Wrangler Unlimited (JK) with standard bumper
Included Components1 Base Plate
Item Weight2.8 pounds
ManufacturerBlue Ox
Part NumberBX1126
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionPlease contact us if you experience any issues within 30 days of receipt.
MaterialAlloy Steel
Model NumberBX1126

Listed on Amazon as: Blue Ox BX1126 Base Plate 2007-2018 Wrangler/Wrangler Unlimited JK, All Models with Standard Bumper (No JL) | Straightforward Installation | Seamless Look

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Blue Ox BX1134 Baseplate

#5

5. Blue Ox BX1134 Baseplate

  • Weight: 35 lb
  • Compatible with Vehicle Type: Car

Best for: JK owners with ARB Stubby Bar.

Why it ranks #5: Targets Wrangler models with an ARB Stubby Bar, with removable arms, receiver covers and a listed three-year warranty.

The Blue Ox BX1134 pairs a vehicle-specific ARB Stubby Bar application with arms that remove using a simple twist. That combination serves 2007–2018 Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited owners who want a tow-ready connection when needed and a less conspicuous front when the arms are off.

This base plate is listed for 2007–2018 Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited models with an ARB Stubby Bar, and the title explicitly excludes JL vehicles. Its hidden design bolts to the chassis, while removable tabs and arms support a cleaner appearance between towing trips. Receiver covers keep dirt and debris out when the arms are removed. The description says towing forces are spread equally without undue stress on the auto frame and notes attachment to Blue Ox motorhome-mount tow bars.

Pros
  • Fits listed 2007–2018 Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited models with ARB Stubby Bar
  • Arms remove with a simple twist
  • Receiver covers keep dirt and debris out
  • Attaches to Blue Ox motorhome-mount tow bars
Cons
  • This model is not for JL vehicles.

Skip it if you own a JL or do not have the listed ARB Stubby Bar application; this plate is specified for neither situation.

JK Wrangler owners with the specified ARB Stubby Bar who use a Blue Ox motorhome-mount tow bar are the clearest match. The application excludes JL vehicles, so model generation and bumper setup are essential boundaries.

Full product details
BrandBlue Ox
Compatible with Vehicle TypeCar
Included ComponentsBase Plate
Item Weight35 pounds
ManufacturerBlue Ox
Part NumberBX1134
Manufacturer Warranty Description3 years
Model NumberBX1134

Listed on Amazon as: Blue Ox BX1134 Baseplate fits 2007 2018 Wrangler/Wrangler Unlimited with ARB Stubby Bar (No JL) | Arms Remove with a Simple Twist When Not in Use

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Sunluway BX1126 Base Plate

#6

6. Sunluway BX1126 Base Plate

  • Material: Alloy Steel

Best for: JK owners seeking tow-bar options.

Why it ranks #6: A listed standard-bumper fit for Wrangler JK and JKU models, with alloy-steel construction and compatibility notes naming several Blue Ox tow-bar types.

Compatibility with Blue Ox, Aventa LX, Aladdin, Alpha, Avail, and Allure tow bars is the Sunluway BX1126’s clearest draw. That stated range lets owners of eligible Jeep Wrangler JK and JKU models match the base plate to several named tow-bar families rather than one listed option.

The kit is specified for 2007–2018 Jeep Wrangler JK and JKU two- and four-door models with a standard bumper, and excludes JL vehicles. Its alloy-steel construction forms the attachment point for the tow bar, while the named compatibility list covers Blue Ox and several other tow-bar lines, including Aventa LX and Alpha. The listing also excludes Call of Duty, Moab, and Rubicon 10th Anniversary editions, making trim verification central to the fit decision.

Pros
  • Fits specified 2007–2018 Jeep Wrangler JK and JKU two- and four-door models
  • Compatible with Blue Ox, Aventa LX, Aladdin, Alpha, Avail, and Allure tow bars
  • Alloy-steel construction
  • Includes a tow-bar base plate kit
Cons
  • Not specified for JL, Call of Duty, Moab, or Rubicon 10th Anniversary models.

Skip it if you own a JL, Call of Duty, Moab, or Rubicon 10th Anniversary model; those applications are excluded from this kit.

JK and JKU owners whose trim and standard bumper match the listed application can use the named tow-bar compatibility range to guide selection. Its explicit model exclusions make it a poor fit outside those boundaries.

Full product details
BrandSunluway
ColorBlack
Included ComponentsTow Bar Base Plate Kit
ManufacturerSunluway
Part NumberSL-BX1126
Manufacturer Warranty Description12 Months Warranty
MaterialAlloy Steel
Model NumberSL-BX1126

Listed on Amazon as: for Jeep Wrangler JK JKU Tow Bar Base Plate BX1126 2007-2018 2/4 Door

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GOFARAUTO BX1126 Base Plate

#7 · Highest Capacity

7. GOFARAUTO BX1126 Base Plate

  • Weight: 36.4 lb

Best for: JK owners prioritizing towing capacity.

Why it ranks #7: Fits Wrangler JK and JKU models with standard bumpers and claims a capacity of up to 10,000 pounds; verify the rating against the whole setup.

A stated capacity of up to 10,000 pounds is the GOFARAUTO BX1126’s key differentiator, giving eligible Jeep Wrangler owners a concrete towing specification to consider. The listing pairs that capacity with reinforced construction and claims vibration damping for a more stable, controlled towing connection.

This plate is listed for 2007–2018 Wrangler JK and Unlimited JKU two- and four-door models with a standard bumper, and not for JL vehicles. Its stated capacity of up to 10,000 pounds gives buyers a specific figure to compare with their towing setup, while the reinforced structure is described as helping damp excessive vibration. Those features speak to connection and ride stability, but the supplied details do not name compatible tow-bar models.

Pros
  • Specified for 2007–2018 Wrangler JK and Unlimited JKU
  • Listed capacity of up to 10,000 pounds
  • Reinforced base plate structure
  • Described as damping excessive towing vibrations
Cons
  • The listing does not identify compatible tow-bar models.

Skip it if you need a listed tow-bar compatibility range; this product’s supplied details give none.

JK and JKU owners with a standard bumper who value a stated 10,000-pound capacity and vibration-damping claims may consider this plate. Its tow-bar compatibility is not specified, so that remains a key setup boundary.

Full product details
BrandGOFARAUTO
Item Weight‎36.4 pounds
Item model number‎BX1126
Manufacturer‎Metalblock
Part Number‎BX1126
Model‎‎BX1126
Package Dimensions‎36.38 x 12.76 x 10.31 inches

Listed on Amazon as: BX1126 Tow Bar Base Plate Compatible with Jeep Wrangler JK/Unlimited JKU

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Blue Ox BX2686 Baseplate

#8

8. Blue Ox BX2686 Baseplate

  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Weight: 25 lb
  • Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck

Best for: F-150 owners wanting a tidy front.

Why it ranks #8: A truck-focused option for F-150 models, with alloy-steel construction, a listed 25-pound weight and receiver covers to keep debris out.

Receiver covers that keep dirt and debris out when the arms are removed distinguish Blue Ox’s BX2686 for Ford F-150 owners. Paired with a hidden design, the covers help maintain a finished front-end appearance between towing trips while protecting the exposed receiver openings from debris.

The listing identifies the BX2686 for 2021–2025 F-150 models, including Raptor, EcoBoost, Hybrid, and models with shutters. That broad named application range helps owners check whether their truck is included, while the hidden design supports a clean look when the plate’s removable arms are not in use. Durable steel construction with a powder-coated finish is specified to resist rust and corrosion, a useful maintenance consideration for a component exposed beneath the front of a truck.

Pros
  • Fits listed 2021–2025 F-150 applications, including Raptor and Hybrid
  • Receiver covers keep dirt and debris out
  • Hidden design provides a clean, seamless look
  • Powder-coated steel is specified to resist rust and corrosion
Cons
  • The supplied details do not name compatible tow-bar models.

Skip it if you need a listed tow-bar model match; this F-150 base plate’s supplied details do not identify one.

F-150 owners in the listed model range who value receiver covers and a concealed appearance may find this a relevant option. Confirm the truck’s application and consider that tow-bar compatibility is not stated in the supplied details.

Full product details
BrandBlue Ox
Compatible with Vehicle TypeTruck
Included ComponentsBase Plate
Item Weight25 pounds
ManufacturerBlue Ox
Part NumberBX2686
Manufacturer Warranty Description3 YEARS
MaterialAlloy Steel
Model NumberBX2686

Listed on Amazon as: Blue Ox BX2686 Baseplate fits 2021 2025 F150 Including Raptor, Acc, EcoBoost, Hybrid, & Shutters | Keep Dirt and Debris Out | Designed to Provide Solid Durable Connection

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Blue Ox BX1120 Base Plate

#9

9. Blue Ox BX1120 Base Plate

  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Weight: 33 lb
  • Compatible with Vehicle Type: Car

Best for: Older Wrangler owners with Rugged Ridge bumper.

Why it ranks #9: A niche Wrangler fit requiring a Rugged Ridge Double Tube Bumper; listed alloy-steel construction and shock-absorbing flex are relevant to that setup.

Compatibility with a Rugged Ridge Double Tube Bumper sets the Blue Ox BX1120 apart for owners of 1997–2006 Wrangler models. Its listed shock-absorbing, torsion-or-flex design provides a connection point intended to accommodate movement while positioning the base plate for towing attachment.

The BX1120 is specifically identified for 1997–2006 Wrangler vehicles with the Rugged Ridge Double Tube Bumper, making bumper and model range decisive fit checks. Its shock-absorbing design lets the plate torsion or flex, while the listed positioning supports proper tow attachment. The product details also describe installation as easy, but do not provide steps, hardware information, or compatible tow-bar models. Alloy-steel construction is specified for the plate itself.

Pros
  • Fits listed 1997–2006 Wrangler models with Rugged Ridge Double Tube Bumper
  • Shock-absorbing design
  • Allows the base plate to torsion or flex
  • Alloy-steel construction
Cons
  • The listed application is restricted to Wrangler models with the specified Rugged Ridge bumper.

Skip it if you have a different Wrangler bumper; the BX1120 is listed for the Rugged Ridge Double Tube Bumper.

Owners of a 1997–2006 Wrangler with the specified Rugged Ridge bumper may value this plate’s flex-oriented design. Its narrow bumper application is the key boundary, and the supplied details leave tow-bar compatibility unspecified.

Full product details
BrandBlue Ox
Compatible with Vehicle TypeCar
Included ComponentsBase Plate
Item Weight33 pounds
ManufacturerBlue Ox
Part NumberBX1120
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionPlease contact us if you experience any issues within 30 days of receipt.
MaterialAlloy Steel
Model NumberBX1120

Listed on Amazon as: Blue Ox BX1120 Base Plate fits 1997 2006 Wrangler with Rugged Ridge Double Tube Bumper | Simple Installation | Low Profile Reinforcements

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CURT 70101 Tow Bar Base Plate

#10

10. CURT 70101 Tow Bar Base Plate

  • Material: Carbon Steel
  • Weight: 33 lb
  • Compatible with Vehicle Type: Sport Utility Vehicle

Best for: Select Durango and Grand Cherokee owners.

Why it ranks #10: Designed for select Durango and Grand Cherokee applications, but the supplied listing does not specify exact model fitment, so buyers must verify carefully.

A vehicle-specific custom fit is the defining feature of CURT’s 70101 tow bar base plate, which is listed for select Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee applications. Its OE-style design is intended to integrate with the vehicle’s front end, supporting a more factory-like appearance in a dinghy-towing setup.

CURT identifies this as a custom-fit base plate for select Durango and Grand Cherokee years, so the exact vehicle application is the first purchasing consideration. The OE-style integrated design connects the towing hardware with the front end for a less conspicuous appearance. Carbon-steel construction supplies the plate material, and its 33-pound listed weight is relevant when handling it during installation. The available details do not specify particular tow-bar models or installation steps.

Pros
  • Custom fit for select Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee applications
  • OE-style design integrates with the front of the vehicle
  • Carbon-steel construction
  • Listed weight is 33 pounds
Cons
  • The supplied information does not name the compatible years or tow-bar models.

Skip it if you need confirmed year-by-year fitment or a named tow-bar compatibility list; those details are not supplied here.

Owners of an eligible Durango or Grand Cherokee seeking an integrated OE-style front-end appearance may find this plate relevant. The application is limited to select years, so verify the vehicle-specific fit before choosing it.

Full product details
BrandCURT
Compatible with Vehicle TypeSport Utility Vehicle
Included ComponentsTow Bar Base Plate
Item Weight33 pounds
ManufacturerCurt Manufacturing
Part Number70101
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionLimited Lifetime Warranty / 1 Year On Finish
MaterialCarbon Steel
Model Number70101
Additional InformationImportant information

Listed on Amazon as: Custom Tow Bar Base Plate, Compatible with Select Durango, Grand Cherokee

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Why bumper and generation mismatches matter

A base plate can be the wrong choice even when the vehicle badge matches, because the listed fit can depend on generation and bumper configuration. Blue Ox BX1126 Base Plate specifies Wrangler JK models with a standard bumper and says some drilling and trimming are required; it is not for JL. Blue Ox BX1134 Baseplate instead specifies an ARB Stubby Bar, while Blue Ox BX1120 Base Plate names a Rugged Ridge Double Tube Bumper.

Those distinctions make model name alone an unreliable fit check. Before ordering, match the vehicle’s generation, trim and front bumper to the product’s application information, then check the manufacturer’s current fit guide if the listing is incomplete.

Do not assume that a replacement bumper or a similar model makes a plate interchangeable. CURT 70101 Tow Bar Base Plate is described for select Durango and Grand Cherokee models, but the supplied data lacks exact application details, making confirmation especially important.

Plan the full flat-towing connection

A base plate is only one part of a flat-towing connection, so choosing a plate does not by itself establish that the vehicle is ready to tow. The listed products describe attachment points for a tow bar, and some specify compatible tow-bar systems: Sunluway BX1126 Base Plate names Blue Ox, Aventa LX, Aladdin, Alpha, Avail and Allure tow bars. Blue Ox BX1134 Baseplate says it attaches to a Blue Ox motorhome-mount tow bar.

These details are useful, but they do not establish compatibility with every tow bar, braking system or vehicle procedure. Confirm that the tow bar connects to the selected plate and separately check the vehicle maker’s requirements for flat towing.

One practical trade-off is installation complexity: Roadmaster 521453-5 Base Plates advertises fewer holes to drill and components to remove, while the Blue Ox BX1126 notes drilling and trimming. Installation effort can vary by vehicle, so treat these as product details, not a guarantee of a particular job time.

How to Choose a Towing Base Plate

Vehicle generation and bumper fit

Look first for a listing that matches your exact vehicle generation and front bumper. Blue Ox BX1126 Base Plate is for Wrangler JK models with a standard bumper, while Blue Ox BX1139 Baseplate fits Wrangler JL models; Blue Ox BX1134 Baseplate is for Wrangler models with an ARB Stubby Bar, and Blue Ox BX1120 Base Plate specifies a Rugged Ridge Double Tube Bumper. Roadmaster 521453-5 Base Plates lists Gladiator and Wrangler JL applications, while Blue Ox BX1145 Baseplate is dedicated to Gladiator.

Choose the narrow, explicit fit when you know your configuration; if you have a modified bumper or an application described only as select models, verify fitment before buying.

Material and product weight

Compare the listed material and weight as specifications, not as proof that one plate is stronger or easier to install. Several products identify alloy steel, including Roadmaster 521453-5 Base Plates, Blue Ox BX1145 Baseplate and Blue Ox BX2686 Baseplate. Blue Ox BX1139 Baseplate lists stainless steel, while CURT 70101 Tow Bar Base Plate lists carbon steel.

Listed product weights range from 25 pounds for Blue Ox BX2686 Baseplate to 40 pounds for Blue Ox BX1145 Baseplate and Blue Ox BX1139 Baseplate; other listed weights include 33 pounds for CURT 70101 Tow Bar Base Plate. A buyer prioritizing a lower listed weight may favor the F-150 option, but fit and installation requirements should take precedence.

Tow-bar connection and installation

Check how the plate connects to your tow bar and what installation work the listing discloses. Roadmaster 521453-5 Base Plates uses a Direct Connect design and states that its installation involves fewer holes and components to remove; Blue Ox BX1126 Base Plate notes that some drilling and trimming are required, with the belly pan and metal bumper removed and reinstalled. Sunluway BX1126 Base Plate lists compatibility with several Blue Ox tow-bar types, while Blue Ox BX1134 Baseplate describes attachment to a Blue Ox motorhome-mount tow bar.

Buyers already using a named compatible system should favor a matching connection; those planning a new setup should confirm every interface. If installation details are limited, consult the maker’s instructions before assuming the job is simple or that adapters are unnecessary.

Which Towing Base Plate Should You Choose?

Choose the Roadmaster 521453-5 Base Plates if you have a compatible Gladiator or Wrangler JL and want its direct-connect design with fewer holes and components to remove. For a Wrangler JL and a hidden plate with twist-off arms, select Blue Ox BX1139 Baseplate. Gladiator owners can consider Blue Ox BX1145 Baseplate.

If your Wrangler is a JK with a standard bumper, Blue Ox BX1126 Base Plate is the listed fit; Sunluway BX1126 Base Plate and GOFARAUTO BX1126 Base Plate are alternatives with that application, with GOFARAUTO claiming up to 10,000 pounds capacity. Choose Blue Ox BX1134 Baseplate for the specified ARB Stubby Bar setup, or Blue Ox BX1120 Base Plate for the named Rugged Ridge bumper.

F-150 owners should review Blue Ox BX2686 Baseplate. Consider CURT 70101 Tow Bar Base Plate only after confirming the exact Durango or Grand Cherokee fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I confirm a base plate fits my exact vehicle trim and bumper?

Match the listing to your vehicle’s year, model, trim, and bumper, then check any stated exclusions. The products here distinguish among Wrangler generations, standard and named aftermarket bumpers, and Gladiator trims. If any detail is unclear or your setup differs, confirm fitment with the manufacturer before ordering.

What other equipment is needed to flat tow a vehicle behind an RV?

A base plate is only the vehicle-side connection point. You also need a compatible tow bar and the other equipment required by your RV, vehicle, and local rules, which may include safety cables, lighting connections, or supplemental braking. Check both vehicle manuals and the equipment manufacturers’ requirements before towing.

Can I use a base plate with a tow bar from a different brand?

Possibly, but brand names alone do not confirm compatibility. Check whether the base plate’s connection style works with the tow bar, and whether an approved adapter is required. The Roadmaster plate listed here uses a direct-connect design; confirm the exact tow-bar connection and vehicle fitment before ordering.

When should removable arms be taken off?

Remove them when they are not needed if your selected plate has removable arms and its instructions allow it. The BX1134 listing describes arms that twist off when not in use, and the BX1139 listing also mentions removable twist-off arms. Check the product instructions for the correct removal and storage procedure.

Why does the bumper type matter when choosing a base plate?

A base plate may be listed for a particular bumper rather than every bumper on the same vehicle. For example, the BX1126 listings specify a standard bumper, while the BX1134 and BX1120 listings name particular aftermarket bumper setups. Match the listing to your actual bumper, and do not assume a similar-looking setup fits.

Final Words

For compatible Gladiator and Wrangler JL owners, the Roadmaster 521453-5 is the strongest starting point: it lists fitment across both vehicle lines and uses a direct-connect design intended to reduce drilling and component removal. Choose another plate when your vehicle generation or bumper calls for a specific fit, such as the JK standard-bumper or named aftermarket-bumper options. Before ordering, verify exact fitment and tow-bar connection.

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