© 2005, 06, 07, 08, 09 Blue Ox
Page 1 of 2
292-2546 Rev. E
6/5/09
BX1117 Installation Instructions
1996-98 Jeep Grand Cherokee (All Models)
A BX88116 Adapter is needed when using a Blue Ox car mounted tow bar. If vehicle
has tow hooks, they need to permanently be removed.
1. The frame mounts (Items 2 and 3) bolt to existing holes in the main frame of the vehicle. Locate
and remove the two bolts securing the radiator cross member to the frame on each side of the
vehicle. Also remove the plastic splash guard retainer located 1 1/2” behind the rear cross
member bolt. This will expose a frame weldnut.
2. Unbolt the tubular cowl support from the radiator cross member and loosen the bolts that attach it
to the cowl. These are located beneath the splash panel.
3. Insert each frame mount (Items 2 and 3) through the lower outside grill openings of the bumper
molding and place over the bolt holes mentioned in step 2. Bolt the frame mounts to the frame
using the 3-10mm x 1.5 x 40mm bolts and washers provided (Items 12, 13 and 14). Use Loctite
to ensure that the bolts do not loosen while the car is being towed. Do not tighten.
The dimensional variations between otherwise identical cars can be considerable. While the location
and size of the holes in the baseplate were designed to allow for easy installation, it may be necessary
to file a hole slightly.
4. Remove the lower plastic push pins on the lower bumper molding. Pull back on the bottom of the
bumper molding and insert the main weldment (Item 1) up into the space between the bumper
molding and the radiator. Line up the holes of the main weldment to the face of the frame mount
plates as shown in the diagram on page 2. Use the 1/2 inch hardware (Items 8, 9, 16 and 11) as
shown in the drawing on page two
5. Notice the small braces of the main weldment (Item 1) extending back to existing holes in the
cross member below the radiator. Use the 3/8 inch hardware (Items 5, 6 and 7) provided. Tighten
all bolts (according to the torque chart in the General Instruction Sheet). Use Loctite to ensure
that the bolts do not loosen while the car is being towed.
6. Now bolt the extension braces (Item 4) to the back of the radiator cross member using the
existing bolt in the cross member. Bolt the loose end of the flat support to the tab using
a 3/8 x 1 1/2 bolt washers and nut provided (Items 5, 6, 10 and 7).
7. Replace the bumper moldings push pins.
8. Install the tow bar and safety cables according to the instructions included in their
packages. Do not substitute other devices if the tow bar pin and clip are lost.
9.
DEALER OR INSTALLER: BE CERTAIN THE USER RECEIVES THE
INSTRUCTION SHEET.
Operation
To install the tow bar connectors, push the connector all the way in through the
bumper mount with the release pin housing up. Rotate the connector until the
locking pin engages To remove the tow bar connectors from the car, pull on the
ring to release the lock pin and rotate the connector. Pull the connector
straight ahead to remove. Be sure to rotate the connectors so the pin
assemblies point up.
