BLUE OX BX1144 Jeep Cherokee Aluminum Bumper Instruction Manual

June 13, 2024
BLUE OX

BLUE OX BX1144 Jeep Cherokee Aluminum Bumper

Product Information

  • Product Name: BX1144 2019-2022 Jeep Cherokee Aluminum Bumper w/out Tow Hooks
  • Compatibility: Includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Shutters, & Technology Package (2-Speed Transfer Case)
  • Attachment Tab Height: 19
  • Attachment Tab Width: 38
  • Bolt Torque Specifications:
Bolt Size (Inch) Grade 5 Torque (Foot-Pounds) Grade 8 Torque (Foot-Pounds)
1/4 10 14
5/16 19 29
3/8 33 47
7/16 54 78
1/2 78 119
5/8 154 230
3/4 257 380
Bolt Size (Metric) Grade 8.8 Torque (Foot-Pounds) Grade 10.9 Torque (Foot-

Pounds)
---|---|---
6MM| 6| 8
8MM| 16| 22
10MM| 31| 40
12MM| 54| 70
14MM| 89| 117
16MM| 161| 230
18MM| 222| 318

Product Usage Instructions

  1. Before installing or operating the equipment, read BOTH the Installation Instructions and the General Information sheet.
  2. If the front of your vehicle looks different than the one shown, contact us at (402)385-3051.
  3. Refer to your vehicle owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s towing specifications.
  4. Inspect the baseplate for any damage or missing parts. DO NOT use the baseplate if it is damaged or missing parts.
  5. Tools Required:
    • Flat Screwdriver
    • Utility Knife
    • Drill
    • 1/4 Drill Bit
    • 8MM Socket
    • 10MM Socket
    • 15MM Socket
    • 17MM Socket
    • 7/16 Socket
    • 7/16 Wrench
    • 9/16 Socket
    • 9/16 Wrench
    • 3/4 Wrench
    • T30 Torx
    • 5/16 Nut Driver
  6. Follow the step-by-step installation instructions provided in the manual.

BX1144
2019-22 Jeep Cherokee Aluminum Bumper w/out Tow Hooks (Includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Shutters, & Technology Package) (2-Speed Transfer Case)

Installation Instructions

Please read BOTH these Installation Instructions and the General Information sheet prior to installing or operating this equipment.

  1. Blue Ox® towing products and accessories are intended to be installed by Blue Ox® Dealers who are familiar with our products and have the equipment and knowledge necessary to do “fit work”. If needed, Blue Ox® Dealers can be found at www.blueox.com or by contacting our Technical Service Department at 402-385-3051.
  2. Many Blue Ox® baseplates are designed to
    use existing holes and hardware to mount the baseplate to the towed vehicle. Even though bolts are there, do not assume they are adequate for baseplate mounting. Always use the hardware supplied in the hardware kit and existing hardware as specified in the installation instructions.

If the front of your vehicle looks different than this, please contact us at (402)385-3051.

Serial Number

  • Attachment Tab Height: 19”
  • Attachment Tab Width: 38”

Bolt Torque Specifications

Torque in Foot-Pounds for Inch Bolts

Bolt Size Grade 5 Grade 8
1/4” 10 14
5/16” 19 29
3/8” 33 47
7/16” 54 78
1/2” 78 119
5/8” 154 230
3/4” 257 380

Torque in Foot-Pounds for Metric Bolts

Bolt Size Grade 8.8 Grade 10.9
6MM 6 8
8MM 16 22
10MM 31 40
12MM 54 70
14MM 89 117
16MM 161 230
18MM 222 318

WARNING
Failure to read and follow these instructions could result in the separation of the towed vehicle from the tow bar, causing property damage, loss of the towed vehicle, personal injury or death.

Instruction Notes: The fascia and fascia cover are removed and reinstalled for the baseplate installation. Some trimming is required.

  • Place all components that are removed on a flat, sturdy surface. All items will be reinstalled unless otherwise noted after the baseplate is installed.
  • The dimensional variations between otherwise identical vehicles can be considerable. While the baseplate was designed for easy installation, it may be necessary to tailor the baseplate slightly to compensate for the vehicle manufacturer’s tolerances.
  • The BX8848 Tail Light Wiring Kit is recommended for this vehicle.

NOTICE

  • Handling of some cosmetic parts when installing this product may require the use of protective covers, rags, specialty tools, etc. to prevent damage.
  • When using power drills be aware of the dangers of torque and drill bit length.
  • When using a reciprocating saw be aware of objects behind the cutting surface.
  • Use good quality paint to spray cut the edges of the frame to prevent rusting.
  • Be sure that ALL electrical connections are plugged in and accessories are functioning properly before reinstalling the fascia.
  • The baseplate is computer tested to your vehicle’s GVWR, exceeding this weight will void the manufacturer’s warranty.
  • Be sure to use a sufficient amount of Loctite® Red on all bolt threads before tightening. Tighten all bolts according to the torque chart provided unless specified.
  • Dealer or installer be certain the user receives these instruction sheets.
  • 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.

Important :
Use only genuine factory replacement parts on your baseplate. Do NOT substitute homemade or non-typical parts. If a bolt is lost or in need of replacement, for your safety and the preservation of your baseplate, be sure to use a replacement bolt of the same grade (In most cases it will be Grade 5, please reference the parts list above). Replacement parts may be ordered through your nearest Blue Ox® Dealer or Distributor. Failing to follow and/or altering these installation instructions in either installation or required equipment will void the manufacturer’s warranty. Towing behind a non-motorized vehicle will void the warranty.

Instructions

  1. Remove the thirteen (13) push pins from the fascia cover. There are six (6) on each side and one (1) in the center. Remove fascia cover and set aside to be reinstalled later.

  2. a. Some Vehicles: Using an 8MM socket, remove the four (4) bolts from the edge of the wheel well. Pull back the wheel well cover, using a 10MM socket, and remove the bolt behind the trim (inset). Do this on both sides of the vehicle.
    b. Some Vehicles: Using an 8MM socket, remove the two (2) bolts (white) and two (2) push pins (gray) from the edge of the wheel well. Pull back the wheel well cover, using a 10MM socket, and remove the bolt behind the trim (inset). Do this on both sides of the vehicle.

  3. Using a T30 Torx, remove the two (2) bolts from the fascia, there is one (1) on each side.

  4. Using a 1/4” drill bit, drill out and remove the three (3) pop rivets underneath the vehicle in front of the tire. Do this on both sides of the vehicle.

  5. Using a 10MM socket, remove the four (4)bolts on the underside of the vehicle.

  6. Unsnap the wheel well trim from the backside. Then insert a flat head screwdriver between black and white pieces as shown and pull the fascia outward to remove. Do this on both sides of the vehicle.

  7. As the fascia is removed unhook the plug on the driver side by pulling out the yellow piece and up on the red part to unhook. Remove fascia and set aside to be reinstalled later.

  8. Using a 15MM socket, remove the three (3) bolts from the frame extension. Using a 10MM socket, remove the nut (gray) from the frame extension. Do this on both sides of the vehicle. The frame extension will not be reinstalled.
    Note : Some vehicles may have a metal clip instead of a nut (gray).

  9. Using a 15MM socket, remove the four (4) bolts from the bumper. Using a 10MM socket, remove the nut (gray) from the bumper. Do this on both sides of the vehicle. Remove the bumper and set aside to be reinstalled later.

  10. On one side of the vehicle, slide the baseplate into place and start the three (3) existing 10MM bolts with flat washers and lock washers. Snug baseplate against frame but do not fully tighten at this time.

  11. A spacer plate will be placed between the bumper and the frame at the top of the bumper. Before reinstalling the bumper, tape the spacer plate in position on the back of the bumper as shown.

  12. Reinstall the bumper with a spacer plate between the frame and the top of the bumper. Start the two (2) 10MM bolts with flat washers and lock washers. Do this on both sides of the vehicle.

  13. Slide the other baseplate onto the vehicle between the bumper and the frame. Start the three (3) existing 10MM bolts with flat washers and lock washers. Ensure the top of the baseplate is up against the bottom of the bumper on both sides of the vehicle.

  14. Install the bottom two (2) 10MM bolts with flat washers and lock washers into the bottom holes of the bumper. Do this on both sides of the vehicle.
    Remove the bottom three (3) 10MM bolts on the baseplate and apply Loctite Red and reinstall. Do this on both sides of the vehicle. Tighten all hardware at this time.
    Use Loctite® Red on all bolt threads and tighten all bolts to the appropriate torque.

  15. Place the bracket on top of the bumper and secure to the baseplate using two (2) 3/8” x
    4- 1/2” bolts with nylon lock nuts. Do this on both sides of the vehicle.
    Use Loctite® Red on all bolt threads and tighten all bolts to the appropriate torque.

  16. Attach the permanent baseplate safety cables to the provided convenience link on the baseplate. The photo above shows the recommended installation of the cables to frame of vehicle. Additional options may interfere with suggested mounting; in this case, secure the cables to a solid piece of the frame as described in the General Information sheet. Be sure the safety cables do not rub against any hoses or moving parts. Do this on BOTH sides of the vehicle.

  17. Non-Shutters Models: Trim the fascia on one side of the vehicle as shown to allow room for the electrical bracket. Install bracket using two (2) 1/4” bolts with hardware (inset).
    Use Loctite® Red on all bolt threads and tighten all bolts to the appropriate torque.

  18. Shutter Models: Trim the fascia as shown on one side of the vehicle to allow room for the electrical (left). On the back side of the fascia remove the middle shutter to allow room to attach the electrical bracket (center). Set aside the shutter to be trimmed and reinstalled later. Cut a hole in the top of the shutter housing to run electrical through and install an electrical bracket using two (2) 1/4” bolts with hardware (right).
    Use Loctite® Red on all bolt threads and tighten all bolts to the appropriate torque.

  19. Shutter Models: Mark and trim the shutter as shown before reinstalling. Ensure that shutters can fully open and close once reinstalled and no electrical is in the way of the shutters.
    Note : If installing a breakaway switch trim the fascia and install the switch before reinstalling the shutter.

  20. Optional: Trim fascia to allow room for breakaway switch. Attach the breakaway switch to the electrical mounting bracket using one (1) 1/4” bolt and nut (gray).

  21. Non-Shutter Models: Using a 7MM socket, remove the two (2) bolts (white) from the air dam on the back side of the fascia. Unclip the three (3) clips (gray) by pushing down on the inside of the clip. Remove the air dam. Do this on both sides of the vehicle.

  22. a. Non-Shutter Models: Remove the horizontal slats from the corner of the fascia as shown. Do this on both sides of the vehicle.
    b. Shutter Models: Hold the fascia as close to its original position, and mark and trim the fascia around the convenience links and attachment tabs.

  23. Reinstall the fascia and fascia cover. Reconnect all electrical connections.
    Note : Install new plastic rivets into the underside of the fascia, where the factory rivets were removed.

CUSTOMER SERVICE COMMITMENT

Blue Ox® is committed to providing you with exceptional customer care throughout your lifetime with our products. Our team is here to assist you with any questions you may have regarding the performance of your product. Simply call 402-385-3051 and you can speak with our technical service team. Additionally, please visit our website to see which rallies our Destination America team will be attending. For a nominal fee, our service technician will service your towing system to ensure it’s in proper working condition. Also, as a commitment to our customers, should you visit our factory, you can stay at our full-service Blue Ox® campground at no charge along with enjoying a factory tour. Again, thank you for being our customer and for the confidence you have shown in the performance of our products. It is because of customers like you we enjoy the success we have today.

© 2016 Blue Ox
One Mill Road, Industrial Park Pender, Nebraska 68047 Phone: 402-385-3051
Fax: 402-385-3360
www.blueox.com

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 the manufacturer’s instructions/recommendations.
  4. Remove the attachment tabs when not in use (if applicable).

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 sometime after the actual baseplate installation.

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.

BLUE OX ORIGINAL PURCHASERS THREE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

Automatic Equipment Manufacturing Company (“Automatic”) warrants to the original (first) retail purchaser that this product, manufactured by Automatic, shall be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal use and service for a period of three years from the date of delivery. During said three-year period, Automatic will repair or replace any parts that have been returned by the original purchaser, to the factory, transportation prepaid, and in Automatic’s sole and absolute opinion found to be defective.

Limitations on Warranty Coverage:

  • Coverage under this warranty will be valid only if the customer warranty card is returned by the original purchaser within 30 days of purchase.
  • Coverage under this warranty will be effective only when a copy of the original invoice, showing date and place of purchase, accompanies any claim for warranty. This warranty is NON-TRANSFERABLE.
  • This limited warranty will not cover, in any way or form, any alleged damages caused by incorrect or improper installation, improper use, modification or neglect of product, failure to properly service and maintain, misuse, act of God, accident or failure of the user to follow guidelines contained in the instructional material provided by Automatic.
  • This warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, paint or rust.
  • The warrantor assumes no responsibility to the owner for loss of use of a product, loss of time, inconvenience or any other damage consequential or otherwise. Including, but not limited to mileage, expense of transporting of product, return shipping expense, mechanics travel time, telephone, road service, towing, and rental during repairs, travel, lodging, loss or damage to personal property or loss of earnings.
  • REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT AS SET FORTH IN THIS LIMITED WARRANTY IS THE SOLE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY OF THE PURCHASER. AUTOMATIC SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES FOR BREACH OF ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY ON THIS PRODUCT. EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT PROHIBITED BY APPLICABLE LAW, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ON THIS PRODUCT IS LIMITED IN LENGTH TO THE DURATION OF THIS WARRANTY.

Please visit http://blueox.com/warranty/ to register your warranty

References

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)

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