BLUE OX BX2688 Ford Bronco Modular Bumper Installation Guide

BLUE OX BX2688 Ford Bronco Modular Bumper

Product Information

• This product is the BX2688 Baseplate designed for the 2021-2022 Ford Bronco with a Modular Bumper. It is compatible with vehicles that have Adaptive Cruise Control, Shutters, and Turbo features. The baseplate comes with attachment tabs that have a height of 22.5 inches and a width of 31 inches.
• The package includes various components such as bolts, baseplate assemblies, attachment tab assemblies, and electrical brackets. The product is designed to be installed on the front of the vehicle and may require some drilling and trimming.
• It is important to read and understand both the Installation Instructions and the General Information sheet provided before installing or operating this equipment. The instructions also provide bolt torque specifications for both inch and metric bolts.
• For any inquiries or if your vehicle looks different from the one described, please contact the manufacturer at (402)385-3051. Additionally, refer to your vehicle owner’s manual for towing specifications provided by the manufacturer.

Product Usage Instructions

1. Before starting the installation process, ensure that you have read and understood the Installation Instructions and General Information sheet.
2. Remove the tow hook covers, bumper, and belly pan from the vehicle. Keep these components on a flat and sturdy surface as they will be reinstalled later.
3. Remove the tow hooks and keep them off as they won’t be reinstalled after the baseplate installation.
4. Prepare the necessary tools, including a torque wrench.
5. Refer to the provided diagram for the arrangement of different components during installation.
6. Install the BX2688 Baseplate on both the driver’s side (DS) and passenger’s side (PS) of the vehicle.
7. Attach the two Attachment Tab Assemblies with Holes to the baseplate.
8. Secure the baseplate using the specified bolts and torque them according to the provided bolt torque specifications.
9. If required, make slight adjustments to the baseplate to compensate for the vehicle manufacturer’s tolerances.
10. Install the Baseplate Electrical Bracket, Small using the provided bolts.
11. For additional wiring needs, it is recommended to use the BX8848 Tail Light Wiring Kit.
12. Reinstall the previously removed components, following the reverse order of their removal.

By following these instructions carefully, you can ensure a proper installation of the BX2688 Baseplate on your 2021-2022 Ford Bronco with a Modular Bumper.

Please visit www.blueox.com for the latest version of these 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.

Reference your vehicle owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s towing specifications.

Specifications

Bolt Torque Specifications
Torque in Foot-Pounds for Inch Bolts

Bolt Torque Specifications
Torque in Foot-Pounds for Metric Bolts

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

Instruction Notes:

• The tow hook covers, bumper, and belly pan are removed and reinstalled for the baseplate installation. Tow hooks are removed and remain off after installation. Some drilling and 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 vehicle manufacturer’s tolerances.
• The BX8848 Tail Light Wiring Kit is recommended for this vehicle.

IMPORTANT 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 a good quality paint to spray cut edges of 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.

Tools Required

• Torque Wrench
• Drill
• Loctite® RED
• 1/4” Drill Bit
• 1/2” Drill Bit
• 10MM Socket
• 13MM Socket
• 15MM Socket
• 7/16” Socket
• 7/16” Wrench
• 3/4” Socket
• 3/4” Wrench

Part List

Item No. —————– Part No. ——————– Description —————————————— Qty.

1. ……………………………Existing…………………………M12 x 1.75MM Bolt………………………………………………….6
2. ……………………………61-8517…………………………BX2688 Baseplate, DS…………………………………………….1
3. ……………………………61-8518…………………………BX2688 Baseplate, PS……………………………………………..1
4. ……………………………62-3468…………………………Attachment Tab Assembly with Hole…………………………..2
5. ……………………………101-10737……………………..Baseplate Electrical Bracket, Small……………………………1
6. ……………………………201-0051……………………….1/2”-13 x 1-1/2” Hex Head Bolt, Grade 5…………………….4
7. ……………………………201-0071……………………….1/4”-20 x 1” Hex Head Bolt, Grade 5, ZP…………………….4
8. ……………………………201-0192……………………….#10-32 1/2” Round Slotted Head Screw……………………..2
9. ……………………………202-0047……………………….#10-32 Hex Nut……………………………………………………….2
10. ………………………….202-0102……………………….1/4”-20 Hex Nylon Nut, ZP………………………………………..4
11. …………………………..203-0001……………………….1/4” Flat Washer, ZP………………………………………………..4
12. ………………………….203-0005……………………….1/2” Flat Washer………………………………………………………4
13. ………………………….203-0012……………………….1/2” Lock Washer, ZP……………………………………………….4
14. ………………………….203-0054……………………….#10 Lock Washer, ZP……………………………………………….2
15. ………………………….226-0049(not shown)………Class IV Safety Cables…………………………………………….2
16. ………………………….229-0512(not shown)………1/2” Quicklink, ZP…………………………………………………….2
17. ………………………….290-0437(not shown)………Black Cap Plug Receiver………………………………………….2

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.

Installation Instructions

BX2688 2021-2022 Ford Bronco (Modular Bumper) (Includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Shutters, & Turbo) Installation Instructions.

1. Remove the four (4) push pins from plastic tow hook cover. Unsnap cover and remove. Set cover aside to be reinstalled later. Do this on both sides of the vehicle.
2. Using a 15MM socket, remove the three (3) bolts from the tow hook. Do this on both sides of the vehicle. Remove tow hooks with bumper and set aside to be reinstalled later. Tow hooks will not be reinstalled.
3. Using a 1/2” drill bit, drill out hole on the outside of the frame. Do this on both sides of the vehicle.
4. Using a 10MM socket, remove the one (1) bolt (white) from the tow hook bracket. Remove the tow hook, it will not be reinstalled. Then using a 13MM socket, remove the four (4) bolts (gray) holding the tow hook bracket onto the bumper. Set the bracket aside to be reinstalled on the bumper later. Do this on both sides of the vehicle.
5. Using a reciprocating saw, cut and remove the indicated area of the tow hook bracket. Then slot the top hole as shown on the side of the bracket with two holes. Do this on both tow hook brackets. Reinstall brackets onto the bumper.
6. Slide the baseplate into the frame and start the one (1) 1/2” bolt with flat washer and lock washer on the outside of the frame. Do this on both sides of the vehicle. Do not fully tighten at this time.
7. Start the one (1) 1/2” bolt (white) with flat washer and lock washer on the inside of the frame. Then on the front of the baseplate, start the top two (2) existing bolts (gray). Once the existing bolts have been started, fully tighten the two (2) side bolts. Remove the two (2) existing bolts. Do this on both sides of the vehicle.
   • Use Loctite® Red on all bolt threads and tighten all bolts to the appropriate torque.
8. Using a 15MM socket, remove the four (4) bolts from the belly pan. Set belly ban aside to be reinstalled later.
9. 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. Reinstall belly pan.
10. Reinstall bumper and install the three (3) existing bolts into the tow hook bracket/baseplate holes. Do this on both sides of the vehicle.
    • Use Loctite® Red on all bolt threads and tighten all bolts to the appropriate torque.
11. Hold the electrical bracket up to the bumper on the driver side of the baseplate and mark spot. Using a 1/4” drill bit, drill a hole in the bumper. Attach the bracket to the bumper using a 1/4” x 1” bolt with a flat washer and nylon lock nut.
12. Optional: Using a 1/4” drill bit drill a hole in the bumper on the passenger side of the vehicle as shown. Bend the breakaway bracket and install using a 1/4” x 1” bolt with a flat washer and nylon lock nut.
13. Hold the tow hook cover as close to its original position, and mark and trim the covers around the convenience links and attachment tabs. Reinstall the covers.

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.

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 them 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.

Option #1
(Baseplates with Convenience Link Tabs)

Option #2
(Baseplates with out Convenience Link Tabs)

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 the 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 the 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

• Blue Ox Product Warranty Registration - Blue Ox
• Home - Blue Ox

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