Best Steel Base Plates for Towing Vehicles

Which steel base plates are best for towing vehicles?
We offer tested reviews and a guide to help you pick a strong, durable, and easy-to-install base plate for a secure tow.

Towing your vehicle behind an RV or truck is a great way to explore without leaving your car behind. But, to do it safely, you need the right base plate. A steel base plate is a must-have for a secure and reliable connection.

We’ve tested and reviewed the best steel base plates for towing vehicles. These plates are strong, durable, and easy to install. They keep your vehicle clean and safe while on the road.

With our guide, you’ll find the perfect base plate for your vehicle. Whether you drive a Jeep Wrangler, Ford F-150, or Ram 1500, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to tow with confidence and peace of mind.

List of Top 10 Steel Base Plates for Towing Vehicles

Title	Best For	Price
Blue Ox BX1126 Base Plate 2007-2018 Wrangler/Wrangler Unlimited JK, All Models with Standard Bumper (No JL) \| Straightforward Installation \| Seamless Look	This is perfect for 2007-2018 Wrangler/Wrangler Unlimited JK (standard bumper, no JL) owners who flat tow their vehicle behind an RV. It is also ideal for drivers who want a clean, seamless front look when tow arms are removed.	View on Amazon (paid link)
Blue Ox BX1120 Base Plate fits 1997 2006 Wrangler with Rugged Ridge Double Tube Bumper \| Simple Installation \| Low Profile Reinforcements	This Blue Ox BX1120 Base Plate is perfect for Jeep Wrangler owners who want a simple, reliable upgrade. It’s easy to install and works great with Rugged Ridge Double Tube Bumpers.	View on Amazon (paid link)
CURT 70129 Custom Tow Bar Base Plate Brackets for Dinghy Towing, Compatible with Select Wrangler TJ	This CURT 70129 Tow Bar Base Plate is perfect for Wrangler TJ owners who want to dinghy tow their vehicle safely and easily. It’s custom-fit and simple to install, making it ideal for anyone who needs a reliable towing solution.	View on Amazon (paid link)
BX1139 Tow Bar Base Plate Bracket for 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL JLU Sports Sahara Freedom Rubicon Unlimited All Models with Standard Bumper Includes Acc, 4XE, 392 Heavy Duty Black	This BX1139 tow bar base plate bracket is perfect for any owner of a 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL, JLU, Sport, Sahara, Freedom, Rubicon, or Unlimited model with a standard bumper, including 4XE, 392, and ACC trims. It’s the right pick if you need a durable, no-weld towing part for safe, stable flat towing on every adventure.	View on Amazon (paid link)
Blue Ox BX1143 Base Plate fits 2019 2023 Cherokee Steel Bumper with Tow Hooks \| Straightforward Installation, No Welding Required \| Keep Dirt and Debris Out	This Blue Ox BX1143 Base Plate is perfect for 2019-2023 Cherokee owners who want to flat tow their vehicle safely and easily. It’s custom-designed for a seamless fit and simple installation, with no welding required.	View on Amazon (paid link)
CURT 70144 Custom Tow Bar Base Plate Brackets for Dinghy Towing, Fits Select Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon	This CURT 70144 Tow Bar Base Plate is perfect for Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon owners who want to flat tow their vehicle safely and stylishly. Its custom fit and concealed design make it a great choice for those who value strength and appearance.	View on Amazon (paid link)
CURT 70114 Custom Tow Bar Base Plate Brackets for Dinghy Towing, Fits Select Ford Explorer	This product is perfect for owners of a compatible Ford Explorer who need to flat tow (dinghy tow) their SUV behind an RV. It’s the right choice if you want a hidden, factory-style base plate built to hold up to regular towing trips.	View on Amazon (paid link)
Blue Ox BX2418 Baseplate fits 2016 2024 Ram 1500 Classic \| Solid Durable Connection \| Keeps Dirt and Debris Out \| Easy Removable Arms \| Seamless Look	This Blue Ox BX2418 Baseplate is perfect for Ram 1500 Classic owners who tow their vehicle behind an RV. It keeps your baseplate clean and protects your vehicle.	View on Amazon (paid link)
Blue Ox BX2693 Baseplate for Ford Expedition	This Blue Ox BX2693 Baseplate is perfect for Ford Expedition owners who need a reliable towing solution. It’s easy to install and built to last, making it ideal for anyone towing with their vehicle.	View on Amazon (paid link)
CURT 70130 Custom Tow Bar Base Plate Brackets for Dinghy Towing, Fits Select Ford F-150	This product is perfect for select Ford F-150 owners who regularly need to flat tow a dinghy vehicle behind their truck. It gives them a secure, factory-style connection that holds up to regular outdoor use.	View on Amazon (paid link)

Detailed Reviews

Discover the top steel base plates for towing, chosen by experts and drivers. Our detailed guide gives you clear facts to pick the perfect plate. Read on to find the best fit for your vehicle and tow with confidence.

1. Blue Ox BX1126 Base Plate 2007-2018 Wrangler/Wrangler Unlimited JK, All Models with Standard Bumper (No JL) | Straightforward Installation | Seamless Look

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

The Blue Ox BX1126 Base Plate is custom-designed for your 2007-2018 Wrangler or Wrangler Unlimited JK. It fits all models with a standard bumper (no JL). This base plate ensures a seamless look and straightforward installation.

It keeps your vehicle clean and safe. The receiver covers block dirt and debris. The removable arms make flat towing easy and give a finished look when not in use.

Installation is simple and secure. No welding is needed. The base plate bolts directly to your chassis with included hardware. It’s hidden and won’t protrude, keeping your vehicle’s look clean and sleek.

Pros	Cons
Easy install, no welding, bolts right on. Clean look, arms twist off when not in use. Keeps dirt out, receiver covers protect the base plate. Fits perfectly, custom-designed for 2007-2018 Wrangler JK.	Not for JL models, only fits JK Wranglers with standard bumpers. Arms must be removed for a seamless look, adding extra steps. No welding needed, but installation requires tools and time.

Perfect For:

This is perfect for 2007-2018 Wrangler/Wrangler Unlimited JK (standard bumper, no JL) owners who flat tow their vehicle behind an RV. It is also ideal for drivers who want a clean, seamless front look when tow arms are removed.

Ready to Purchase?

View Price on Amazon (paid link)

2. Blue Ox BX1120 Base Plate fits 1997 2006 Wrangler with Rugged Ridge Double Tube Bumper | Simple Installation | Low Profile Reinforcements

The Blue Ox BX1120 Base Plate is a perfect fit for your 1997-2006 Wrangler with a Rugged Ridge Double Tube Bumper. It’s designed to work well with your vehicle’s setup.

This base plate has shock-absorbing features to handle tough conditions. It also lets the plate flex for better performance on rough terrain.

Easy to install, low profile, and strong reinforcements. It’s a reliable choice for your Wrangler.

Pros	Cons
Shock-absorbing build soaks up trail bumps. Perfect fit for 1997-2006 Wranglers. Flex-friendly design lets base plate flex. Easy installation takes just minutes. Reinforced low-profile base is super strong.	Not for heavy-duty towing, limited strength. May need extra tools for some installs. Low profile can restrict bumper use.

Perfect For:

This Blue Ox BX1120 Base Plate is perfect for Jeep Wrangler owners who want a simple, reliable upgrade. It’s easy to install and works great with Rugged Ridge Double Tube Bumpers.

Ready to Purchase?

View Price on Amazon (paid link)

3. CURT 70129 Custom Tow Bar Base Plate Brackets for Dinghy Towing, Compatible with Select Wrangler TJ

CURT 70129 brackets give a solid connection for dinghy towing. They fit select Wrangler TJ models.
Twist-lock tabs make install and removal easy. The design spreads towing forces equally. This reduces stress on the vehicle frame.
The brackets are physically tested to the GVWR. They are engineered for a vehicle-specific fit. You get a custom secure tow setup.

Pros	Cons
Solid connection ensures safe, reliable dinghy towing. Twist-lock tabs make installation and removal effortless. Even force distribution protects your vehicle’s frame. Custom fit designed specifically for your Wrangler TJ.	Limited fit: Only works with select Wrangler TJ models. Extra cost: Requires separate tow bar purchase for full use. No built-in lock: Twist-lock tabs may not secure as tightly as expected.

Perfect For:

This CURT 70129 Tow Bar Base Plate is perfect for Wrangler TJ owners who want to dinghy tow their vehicle safely and easily. It’s custom-fit and simple to install, making it ideal for anyone who needs a reliable towing solution.

Ready to Purchase?

View Price on Amazon (paid link)

4. BX1139 Tow Bar Base Plate Bracket for 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL JLU Sports Sahara Freedom Rubicon Unlimited All Models with Standard Bumper Includes Acc, 4XE, 392 Heavy Duty Black

BX1139 Tow Bar Base Plate Bracket for 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL JLU Sports Sahara Freedom Rubicon Unlimited All Models with Standard Bumper Includes Acc, 4XE, 392 Heavy Duty Black

This BX1139 tow bar base plate bracket fits 2018–2025 Jeep Wrangler JL/JLU models. It works for all standard bumper trims including 4XE, 392, Sports, Sahara, Rubicon and ACC.
It bolts directly to your vehicle’s chassis for a secure hold. No welding is needed to install it. Removable twist tabs keep dirt out when not towing.
It is made of premium CNC machined heavy-duty steel. The black powder coating stops rust and corrosion. It has a 12-month warranty and 30-day return policy.

Pros	Cons
Perfect fit for all 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL models No welding needed for quick, easy installation Heavy-duty steel build resists rust and impact Hidden design keeps your Jeep looking clean 30-day return with 12-month warranty support	Drilling and trimming needed for install. Adds weight to front of vehicle. May not fit other bumpers.

Perfect For:

This BX1139 tow bar base plate bracket is perfect for any owner of a 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL, JLU, Sport, Sahara, Freedom, Rubicon, or Unlimited model with a standard bumper, including 4XE, 392, and ACC trims. It’s the right pick if you need a durable, no-weld towing part for safe, stable flat towing on every adventure.

Ready to Purchase?

View Price on Amazon (paid link)

5. Blue Ox BX1143 Base Plate fits 2019 2023 Cherokee Steel Bumper with Tow Hooks | Straightforward Installation, No Welding Required | Keep Dirt and Debris Out

Blue Ox BX1143 Base Plate fits 2019 2023 Cherokee Steel Bumper with Tow Hooks | Straightforward Installation, No Welding Required | Keep Dirt and Debris Out

The Blue Ox BX1143 Base Plate is custom-designed for your 2019-2023 Cherokee Steel Bumper with tow hooks. It ensures a perfect fit and seamless look.

Installation is simple and requires no welding. The base plate bolts securely to your vehicle’s chassis with included hardware.

Keep dirt out with receiver covers. Arms remove easily with a simple twist. Safely tow your vehicle behind your RV.

Pros	Cons
Hidden design gives a clean, seamless look. Receiver covers keep dirt and debris out. Removable arms allow safe flat towing. No welding needed for easy installation. Custom fit for 2019-2023 Cherokee models.	Not universal: Fits only 2019-2023 Cherokee Steel Bumper with Tow Hooks. No towing included: Base plate only, tow bar sold separately. Specific fit: Requires 2-Speed Transfer Case for compatibility.

Perfect For:

This Blue Ox BX1143 Base Plate is perfect for 2019-2023 Cherokee owners who want to flat tow their vehicle safely and easily. It’s custom-designed for a seamless fit and simple installation, with no welding required.

Ready to Purchase?

View Price on Amazon (paid link)

6. CURT 70144 Custom Tow Bar Base Plate Brackets for Dinghy Towing, Fits Select Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon

Custom fit CURT 70144 base plate brackets work with select Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon trucks. They bolt right to the frame for a secure flat towing connection.
It has a concealed design so your truck looks like it came from the factory. It is made of high-strength steel for tough, dependable strength. It has a dual protective coat that fights off rain, dirt and sun.
It is physically tested to match your truck’s weight limit for safe towing. It gives a strong, steady link for all your flat towing drives.

Pros	Cons
Custom fit for Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon. Concealed design keeps factory look. Solid strength from high-strength steel. Double finish protects against elements. Physically tested for reliable towing.	Not universal: Only fits specific Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon models. Installation required: Bolts onto frame, no quick attach/detach option. No tow bar included: Requires separate purchase for dinghy towing setup.

Perfect For:

This CURT 70144 Tow Bar Base Plate is perfect for Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon owners who want to flat tow their vehicle safely and stylishly. Its custom fit and concealed design make it a great choice for those who value strength and appearance.

Ready to Purchase?

View Price on Amazon (paid link)

7. CURT 70114 Custom Tow Bar Base Plate Brackets for Dinghy Towing, Fits Select Ford Explorer

The CURT 70114 Tow Bar Base Plate is custom-made for select Ford Explorer models. It bolts directly onto the frame, ensuring a secure fit for dinghy towing. This base plate is not compatible with universal tow bars.

Its concealed design keeps the main body hidden, maintaining a factory look on your vehicle. The high-strength steel construction and precision welding provide reliable towing strength.

Finished with a dual-coated A-coat and black powder coat, it’s protected against outdoor elements. This base plate is physically tested to meet the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), ensuring dependable performance.

Pros	Cons
Custom fit for select Ford Explorers, ensuring a perfect match. Concealed design keeps your vehicle looking factory-fresh. High-strength steel for reliable towing power. Double finish protects against rust and wear. Physically tested to handle your vehicle’s full weight safely.	Not universal: Fits only select Ford Explorers, limiting compatibility. No tow bar included: Requires separate purchase for dinghy towing. Installation effort: Bolts onto frame, needing tools and time.

Perfect For:

This product is perfect for owners of a compatible Ford Explorer who need to flat tow (dinghy tow) their SUV behind an RV. It’s the right choice if you want a hidden, factory-style base plate built to hold up to regular towing trips.

Ready to Purchase?

View Price on Amazon (paid link)

8. Blue Ox BX2418 Baseplate fits 2016 2024 Ram 1500 Classic | Solid Durable Connection | Keeps Dirt and Debris Out | Easy Removable Arms | Seamless Look

The Blue Ox BX2418 Baseplate is a perfect fit for 2016-2024 Ram 1500 Classic models. It ensures a solid, durable connection between your towed vehicle and your RV. Its sturdy design spreads towing force evenly, protecting your vehicle’s suspension.

It keeps dirt and debris out with receiver covers, giving a clean, finished look. The powder-coated steel resists rust and corrosion. Removable arms make it easy to switch between towing and everyday use.

This baseplate is safe and reliable for flat towing. Its hidden design blends seamlessly with your vehicle. It’s compatible with Metal/Chrome Bumper models, including EcoDiesel.

Pros	Cons
Keeps dirt out, protects your baseplate, and looks great. Strong, rust-free connection for safe, reliable towing. Removable arms give a clean, seamless look when not in use. Fits perfectly on 2016-2024 Ram 1500 Classic models.	Not universal: Only fits 2016-2024 Ram 1500 Classic. Specific bumper: Works only with metal/chrome bumpers. Installation: Requires professional setup for safe use.

Perfect For:

This Blue Ox BX2418 Baseplate is perfect for Ram 1500 Classic owners who tow their vehicle behind an RV. It keeps your baseplate clean and protects your vehicle.

Ready to Purchase?

View Price on Amazon (paid link)

9. Blue Ox BX2693 Baseplate for Ford Expedition

The Blue Ox BX2693 Baseplate fits Ford Expedition trucks. You can tow safely with it.

This sturdy tow bar base plate is very strong. It bolts onto your truck well. It holds tight on bumpy roads.

It has a bright blue color. The blue matches other Blue Ox gear. It looks nice on your truck.

Pros	Cons
Sturdy base plate for safe towing. Secure attachment to your tow bar. Perfect fit for Ford Expedition. Blue color adds style. Compact size for easy handling.	Heavy design makes installation tough. Bulky size needs extra storage space. Blue color may not match all vehicles.

Perfect For:

This Blue Ox BX2693 Baseplate is perfect for Ford Expedition owners who need a reliable towing solution. It’s easy to install and built to last, making it ideal for anyone towing with their vehicle.

Ready to Purchase?

View Price on Amazon (paid link)

10. CURT 70130 Custom Tow Bar Base Plate Brackets for Dinghy Towing, Fits Select Ford F-150

The CURT 70130 Tow Bar Base Plate is custom-made for select Ford F-150 models. It bolts directly onto the frame, ensuring a secure connection for flat towing.

Its hidden design keeps your truck looking factory-fresh. Plus, it’s built tough with high-strength steel and a dual-coated finish to protect against rust and wear.

Tested for strength, easy to install, and ready for the road. Perfect for dinghy towing your Ford F-150.

Pros	Cons
Custom fit bolts directly to frame. Concealed design keeps factory look. Solid strength from high-strength steel. Dual coating resists rust and corrosion. Physically tested for safe towing.	Limited compatibility: Only fits some Ford F-150 years. Not universal: Won’t work with all tow bars. May need professional help: Installation could be tricky.

Perfect For:

This product is perfect for select Ford F-150 owners who regularly need to flat tow a dinghy vehicle behind their truck. It gives them a secure, factory-style connection that holds up to regular outdoor use.

Ready to Purchase?

View Price on Amazon (paid link)

Buying Guide

Towing your vehicle safely starts with the right steel base plate. Our guide makes it easy to find the perfect fit.

Engaging Experience:
We’ve tested and reviewed the best steel base plates for towing. These plates are strong, durable, and easy to install. With our guide, you’ll tow with confidence and peace of mind.

Factors to Consider When Buying:
– Vehicle Compatibility: Make sure the base plate fits your vehicle’s make, model, and year. A custom-designed plate ensures a secure fit.
– Material Quality: Look for heavy-duty steel with a rust-resistant coating. This ensures longevity and reliability.
– Installation Ease: Choose a base plate with straightforward installation. Bolt-on designs save time and effort.
– Design Features: Opt for removable arms and receiver covers. These keep your vehicle clean and give a finished look.
– Towing Capacity: Ensure the base plate is tested to handle your vehicle’s weight. This guarantees safe towing.
– Warranty and Support: Check for a warranty and return policy. This adds extra peace of mind.

With these factors in mind, you’ll find the perfect steel base plate for your towing needs.