Cost to install Ready Brute Elite on a 2012 Jeep Wrangler JKU

[Unicorn Driver]

Hi,

I just got a quote to a install Ready Brute elite on my 2012 Wranglers JKU.
The installer quoted with a Blue OX BX1134 Base plate, breakaway and wiring jeep for towing.

Pre cost tax total 2540$, a quick Google tells me I can save 200$ by purchasing the parts online. (Labor is 6 hours totaling 540$)

I had asked about doing a replacement tow bumper but was told "everyone" does base plates.

I could purchase the parts myself and save 200$.

What do folks think? Does the price seem ok?

Thanks,

[l1v3fr33ord1]

UD-

Scott ("FIRE UP") has a lot of experience. If he says bumper-connected towbars are fine, then I'd believe him. Besides, you don't lose much except the price (and labor) of the replacement bumper, should you later decide to go with the baseplate option.

Here's a problem I have with our baseplate installation on our toad: Every 3,000 miles I'm supposed to check the bolts for tightness. Wouldn't you know, when I check (and it's not easy to do), at least one bolt needs tightening. I should think that a bumper installation would be easier to check!

I installed the braking system on our toad myself. I bet you can do it!

[Unicorn Driver]

Hi Mark,

I am definitely leaning towards the bumper, I am not sure why the guy was pushing the base plate.

I had never heard about checking the bolts on a baseplate, that's definitely food for thought.

You are right, I could probably do the brake install myself.
My buddy does have a lift :-)

I was wondering how the install cost sound.

Cheers,

[motts461]

Check this out.

https://youtu.be/GDid5PpEuF4

I followed these videos and could not be happier.

[Unicorn Driver]

Thanks,

Great to know. I will check out these videos.

[Unicorn Driver]

I called NSA and they told me to measure my hitch
height before deciding on a bumper or baseplate.

[stevemoores]

Look at the Currie baseplate as well, very rugged piece of metal. I installed it on my own, but had to drill a couple of spots if I remember correctly.

Installing a Readybrute Elite is very easy as long as you can contort your body to drill the hole in the firewall (two holes, one for the brake cable and one for the breakaway brake cable).

Took me an afternoon, working slow. Just need a drill and basic wrenches and screwdrivers.

Steve

[stevemoores]

And to add to the NSA comment, you don't want the attachment points on the Jeep above the receiver on the motorhome, the Jeep can ride up in an emergency stop (and probably not very good for the towbar when towing).

I used to tow a lifted Jeep and had a 7" drop, inverted, to lift the receiver.

[cwit]

I would go with the after market bumper, no base plate. I put a base plate on my tj. Had to have an 8” drop hitch. Got rid of it went with bumper pull. 4” drop.

[BMGM37]

I also used the Currie plate, it’s is very well built, easy install and hardly visible once installed plus it’s also a skid plate if you do any off roading. My JKU has a 2.5” lift on BFG 35” tires and with a Currie plate it is a straight shot to the hitch, no drop or riser needed on our Seneca.

[Unicorn Driver]

Thanks all,

I am going to measure my hitch height before deciding which route to go.

[Unicorn Driver]

My hitch height is about 19 inches but need to confirm it on a flat surface.

A local trailer shop who are a Blue Ox dealer said they can install whatever baseplate or bumper I like. They have not installed a Ready Brute Elite but are willing to do so.

They are happy for me to supply the parts.

So its either go here or go to the NSA dealer 80 miles away.

I spoke to NSA and they said a professional will have no issue with the install.

[AKIQPilot]

Originally Posted by Unicorn Driver

My hitch height is about 19 inches but need to confirm it on a flat surface.

A local trailer shop who are a Blue Ox dealer said they can install whatever baseplate or bumper I like. They have not installed a Ready Brute Elite but are willing to do so.

They are happy for me to supply the parts.

So its either go here or go to the NSA dealer 80 miles away.

I spoke to NSA and they said a professional will have no issue with the install.

The install is pretty simple. This would be a good opportunity to get to know your jeep and motorhome a little better.

Obviously if you don’t have a set of combo wrenches or a drill it could be an issue but this is very basic mechanical work. Taking on small jobs like this will give you a little confidence and help you tackle the bigger jobs. Owning an rv can get expensive if you have to pay someone to do everything.

At least watch a video on bumper removal and crawl under and see what it will take. A TJ bumper comes off in under 5 minutes. I cant imagine a JK taking much more than that.

[Unicorn Driver]

Hi Tom,

My wife said she does not want me doing the install.