5/11/15
Permanent Baseplate Safety Cable Installation
Permanent baseplate safety cables are strongly recommended when towing a vehicle with a tow bar.
The principle function of the permanent baseplate safety cables is to prevent the towed vehicle from
breaking loose in the event the connection between the frame of the towed vehicle 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. The illustrations below show the possible arrangements
recommended by Blue Ox®. Each permanent baseplate safety cable must have an adequate weight
rating for the towing system. The weight rating of the two (2) cables together will not qualify.
Do not mount the permanent baseplate safety cables against wires, hoses or brake lines.
These permanent baseplate safety cables should remain installed as long as the baseplate is
installed on the vehicle. Permanent baseplate safety cables are to be used in conjunction with,
and NOT a replacement for legally required safety cables attaching the towed vehicle to the towing
vehicle.
Notice To Baseplate Installer
1.
It is YOUR responsibility to watch for:
• Oil cooler and air conditioner lines
• Electrical wires and hoses
• 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 the actual baseplate installation.
General Information
1. Ensure that your product(s) are registered online at www.blueox.com. It is crucial to register your product(s)
so that you may be alerted of product offerings, updates, upgrades, maintenance and safety bulletins, and/
or recalls.
2.
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.
3.
It is the owner’s responsibility to hook up all towing equipment per manufacturer’s instructions/
recommendations.
4. Remove the attachment tabs when not in use (if applicable).