Flat towing a trailer or recreational vehicle (RV) requires precise setup and reliable equipment to ensure both safety and ease of use. Blue Ox, a trusted name in towing solutions, offers products like the tow bar and SwayPro system that simplify the process for vehicle owners. This article provides a detailed guide based on official documentation to help users understand the installation process of Blue Ox tow bars and the SwayPro system, emphasizing key technical steps, best practices, and considerations for compatibility and performance.
Overview of Blue Ox Tow Bar and SwayPro Systems
Blue Ox tow bars and the SwayPro system are designed for flat towing, a method where a vehicle is towed with all wheels on the ground, typically behind a motorhome or another towing vehicle. The tow bar connects the towing and towed vehicles, while the SwayPro system serves a dual function: it distributes the trailer’s weight and prevents sway during travel.
According to the documentation, Blue Ox tow bars are constructed from durable steel and integrate seamlessly with the original vehicle frame and bumper. They do not require significant modifications and are designed to minimize wear on the vehicle’s suspension. The SwayPro system, on the other hand, uses spring bars and rotating latches to balance the load and prevent lateral movement of the trailer, enhancing control and safety.
Both systems are built for user-friendly installation and require careful adherence to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure proper function and longevity.
Preparing for Installation
Before beginning the installation process, it is essential to prepare the work area and gather all necessary tools and components. The installation should be performed on a firm, level surface to ensure accurate alignment and proper setup.
Tools and Materials
The following items are typically required for installation, as noted in the documentation:
- Wrench set
- Socket set
- Torque wrench
- Trailer jack
- Blue Ox tow bar or SwayPro system components
- Installation manual (included with the product)
It is also important to ensure that the towing and towed vehicles are compatible with the selected Blue Ox product. For example, the baseplate must be custom-fitted to the specific vehicle model, and the SwayPro system is designed for trailers with a weight distribution hitch receiver.
Installing the Blue Ox Baseplate
The baseplate is a critical component that connects the towed vehicle to the tow bar. As per the documentation, Blue Ox baseplates are custom-made and designed to integrate with the original vehicle frame and bumper without requiring major modifications.
The installation process involves the following steps:
Position the Vehicle: Park the towed vehicle on a level surface and disable any air-ride or automatic leveling systems to ensure a stable base for installation.
Mount the Baseplate: Align the baseplate with the vehicle’s frame and secure it using the provided hardware. The baseplate is designed to be discreet, with some models including removable tabs that can be removed when the baseplate is not in use.
Verify Fit and Aesthetics: Once installed, confirm that the baseplate is securely fastened and that there are no visible brackets or crossbar supports that might interfere with normal vehicle operation or appearance.
It is important to note that the baseplate does not alter the original vehicle structure significantly and is built to flex and absorb shocks during towing, reducing wear on the suspension system.
Installing the Blue Ox Tow Bar
The tow bar is the primary component that connects the baseplate to the towing vehicle. The installation process involves aligning and securing the tow bar to ensure a stable and secure connection.
Step-by-Step Installation
Position the Vehicles: Park both the towing and towed vehicles in a straight line on a level surface.
Attach the Tow Bar: Insert the tow bar into the baseplate and secure it using the provided fasteners. Ensure that the tow bar is aligned correctly and that all connections are tight.
Secure the Tow Bar to the Towing Vehicle: The tow bar is then connected to the towing vehicle, typically through a hitch receiver. Confirm that all connections are secure and that the tow bar is level with both vehicles.
Test the Connection: Perform a visual inspection to ensure that the tow bar is properly aligned and that all fasteners are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications.
The documentation emphasizes that the installation should be completed carefully to avoid misalignment, which can affect the stability of the towed vehicle during travel.
Installing the SwayPro System
The SwayPro system is an advanced weight-distribution hitch and trailer sway control system. It is particularly useful for trailers that are prone to swaying due to wind or uneven weight distribution. The installation process involves several steps to ensure proper functionality.
Step-by-Step Installation
Prepare the Vehicles: Park the towing and trailer vehicles in a straight line on a firm, level surface. Disable any air-ride or automatic leveling systems on the towing vehicle to ensure accurate installation.
Remove the Existing Hitch: If a standard receiver hitch is already installed, remove it to make way for the SwayPro system.
Install the Hitch Mount Receiver Shank: Insert the hitch mount receiver shank into the towing vehicle’s receiver hitch and secure it using the provided 5/8" x 3" pin and clip.
Insert the Spring Bars: Carefully insert the spring bars into the bar pivots until the manual release pins snap closed and lock the bars in place. This step is crucial for distributing the trailer’s weight effectively.
Adjust the Rotating Latches: The rotating latches must be positioned correctly to ensure proper tension on the spring bars. Torque the 1/2”-13 square head set screws against the trailer tongue framework to 40 ft/lbs and tighten the jam nut. Do not use Loctite® Red on the set screw.
Position the Chain Links: The spring bar chain must be straight up and down in the center of the rotating latch when the towing and trailer vehicles are aligned. If necessary, reposition the rotating latch along the trailer frame to achieve this.
Engage the Latch: Release the rotating latch by rotating or pulling out on the lock pin handle. Using the provided wrench, rotate the bracket clockwise until the chain slot is on the bottom. Insert the 9th chain link from the top (opposite the u-bolt) into the slot of the latch. Rotate the latch counterclockwise until the lock pin engages in the lock pin hole.
Adjust for Leveling: If the towing vehicle is not level, adjust the chain links to balance the weight. Support the trailer tongue with the trailer jack, unlock the rotating latch, and adjust the chain one link at a time. Reapply tension by rotating the latch clockwise until the lock pin engages.
Verify Leveling: Repeat the leveling process until both the towing vehicle and trailer are level. If the trailer is not level, determine how much and in which direction it needs to be adjusted. Each hole in the hitch head raises or lowers the front of the trailer by 1-1/2 inches. Adjust the hitch head accordingly and reapply tension.
Final Checks: Once both vehicles are level, verify that the SwayPro system is functioning correctly. Ensure that the spring bars are properly tensioned and that the rotating latches are secure. If any issues arise, refer to the troubleshooting section of the owner’s manual.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance
Despite careful installation, issues may occasionally arise with the Blue Ox tow bar or SwayPro system. The documentation provides several troubleshooting tips to help users identify and resolve common problems.
Common Issues and Solutions
Misalignment: If the tow bar or SwayPro system appears misaligned, check the level of both vehicles and readjust the chain links or hitch head as needed.
Swing or Sway: If the trailer begins to sway during travel, it may indicate improper tension on the spring bars. Check the tension settings and ensure that the rotating latches are fully engaged.
Loose Connections: If any fasteners feel loose, recheck the torque specifications and tighten as required. The documentation specifies a torque of 40 ft/lbs for the set screws and 257 ft/lbs for the hitch head fasteners.
Damage or Wear: Inspect all components for signs of wear or damage, especially after long trips. Replace any damaged parts immediately to maintain safety and performance.
Regular maintenance is recommended to ensure the longevity of the Blue Ox products. This includes cleaning the components after use, checking for corrosion, and reapplying lubrication to moving parts.
Safety and Best Practices
Safety should always be a priority when installing and using towing equipment. The documentation emphasizes several best practices to help users operate Blue Ox products safely and effectively.
Pre-Trip Checks
Vehicle Compatibility: Ensure that both the towing and towed vehicles are compatible with the selected Blue Ox product. Check the manufacturer’s specifications and installation guidelines.
Leveling: Before beginning the trip, verify that both vehicles are level. This helps maintain proper weight distribution and reduces the risk of instability during travel.
Tension Settings: Confirm that the spring bars and chains are properly tensioned. Adjust as needed to maintain balance and prevent sway.
Lighting and Braking: Ensure that the trailer’s lights and brakes are functioning correctly. This includes the turn signals, brake lights, and emergency brake system.
During the Trip
Monitor for Sway: Keep an eye on the trailer during travel. If any swaying occurs, reduce speed and adjust the tension on the SwayPro system if possible.
Avoid Sudden Maneuvers: Sudden turns or braking can increase the risk of sway. Drive smoothly and anticipate changes in traffic or weather conditions.
Check Regularly: Stop at safe intervals to inspect the towing setup. Look for any signs of wear, misalignment, or loosening components.
By following these best practices, users can ensure a safer and more efficient towing experience with Blue Ox products.
Conclusion
Blue Ox tow bars and the SwayPro system are designed to provide a reliable and user-friendly solution for flat towing. The installation process requires careful attention to detail, proper tool use, and adherence to the manufacturer’s specifications. By following the outlined steps and best practices, users can ensure a stable and safe towing experience.
Whether you are a seasoned RV enthusiast or a first-time trailer owner, understanding the correct installation and maintenance procedures is essential for long-term performance and safety. The documentation provided by Blue Ox offers clear guidance on how to install and operate these systems, emphasizing the importance of precision, compatibility, and regular checks.
For further assistance, users are encouraged to refer to the official installation manuals or contact Blue Ox customer care for any questions or concerns.