I use a Blue Ox tow bar for hauling our toad. I'm curious if there's any maintenance that I need to do. I bought this towbar at 4wheelonline| towing parts two years ago.
Howard said
07:38 PM Aug 16, 2019
Blue Ox recommends a full service every 2 years or 10,000 miles.
They also list recommended maintenance in their Installation Manuals which you can find on their website. Just have know the model you have.
For our model, the BX7365 Alpha, the following is listed:
1. Keep the tow bar covered when not in use, on or off of the towing vehicle. This will cut down on
the dirt build up on the legs and joints of the tow bar. A BX8875 tow bar cover is recommended.
2. Periodically clean the entire surface of the tow bar with a mild soap and water solution. Wipe dry
with a clean cloth.
3. Check for cracked welds and repair any loose, worn or damaged bolts, rubber boots or cap plugs.
4. Approximately once per year or if it is difficult to move the legs in and out, remove the small cable
ties holding the rubber boots to the legs and slide the boots back. Clean off the inner legs with a
silicone spray or brake cleaner. Apply a light coat of multipurpose grease to each leg to ensure a
smooth operation. Secure each boot back in place with an 8” UV rated nylon cable tie.
Note: Only the inner legs require grease for normal operation. All other tow bar joints rely on self
lubricating washers, if these joints become to stiff clean as directed with soap and water.
5. Before each trip check for movement in the baseplate. Grab the baseplate tabs and move up and
down, making sure the baseplate is still secure to the vehicle’s frame.
If the tow bar’s legs do not operate smoothly or the joints become excessively loose, take
your tow bar to an authorized Blue Ox Dealer or call Blue Ox Customer Care for repairs.
You can do the maintenance yourself, or you can visit one of the many events/rallies Blue Ox goes to and sign up there for them to do it. It used to be free, but now there is a reasonable charge. Or, if you happen to be passing through Nebraska, you can stop by their factory and have it done.
I use a Blue Ox tow bar for hauling our toad. I'm curious if there's any maintenance that I need to do. I bought this towbar at 4wheelonline| towing parts two years ago.
Blue Ox recommends a full service every 2 years or 10,000 miles.
They also list recommended maintenance in their Installation Manuals which you can find on their website. Just have know the model you have.
For our model, the BX7365 Alpha, the following is listed:
1. Keep the tow bar covered when not in use, on or off of the towing vehicle. This will cut down on
the dirt build up on the legs and joints of the tow bar. A BX8875 tow bar cover is recommended.
2. Periodically clean the entire surface of the tow bar with a mild soap and water solution. Wipe dry
with a clean cloth.
3. Check for cracked welds and repair any loose, worn or damaged bolts, rubber boots or cap plugs.
4. Approximately once per year or if it is difficult to move the legs in and out, remove the small cable
ties holding the rubber boots to the legs and slide the boots back. Clean off the inner legs with a
silicone spray or brake cleaner. Apply a light coat of multipurpose grease to each leg to ensure a
smooth operation. Secure each boot back in place with an 8” UV rated nylon cable tie.
Note: Only the inner legs require grease for normal operation. All other tow bar joints rely on self
lubricating washers, if these joints become to stiff clean as directed with soap and water.
5. Before each trip check for movement in the baseplate. Grab the baseplate tabs and move up and
down, making sure the baseplate is still secure to the vehicle’s frame.
If the tow bar’s legs do not operate smoothly or the joints become excessively loose, take
your tow bar to an authorized Blue Ox Dealer or call Blue Ox Customer Care for repairs.
You can do the maintenance yourself, or you can visit one of the many events/rallies Blue Ox goes to and sign up there for them to do it. It used to be free, but now there is a reasonable charge. Or, if you happen to be passing through Nebraska, you can stop by their factory and have it done.