BX3332: 2008-10 Saturn Vue and 2012-13 Chevy Captiva Sport Installation Instructions
Introduction
Model: BX3332
Vehicle Compatibility: 2008-2010 Saturn Vue and Redline, 2012-2013 Chevrolet Captiva Sport (with Foglights)
Attachment Tab Height: 21-1/2"
Attachment Tab Width: 18-1/2"
Please read BOTH these Installation Instructions and the General Instructions prior to installing or operating this equipment.
- 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 Customer Care Department at (402) 385-3051.
- 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.
Bolt Torque Specifications
Torque in Foot-Pounds for Metric Bolts
| Bolt Size | Grade 8.8 | Grade 10.9 |
|---|---|---|
| 6MM | 6 | 8 |
| 8MM | 16 | 22 |
| 10MM | 31 | 40 |
| 12MM | 54 | 70 |
| 14MM | 89 | 117 |
Torque in Foot-Pounds for Inch Bolts
| Bolt Size | Grade 5 | Grade 8 |
|---|---|---|
| 1/4" | 10 | 14 |
| 5/16" | 19 | 29 |
| 3/8" | 33 | 47 |
| 7/16" | 54 | 78 |
| 1/2" | 78 | 119 |
| 5/8" | 154 | 230 |
Reference your vehicle owner's manual for manufacturer's towing specifications.
⚠️ 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.
If the front of your vehicle looks different than this, please contact us at (402)385-3051.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 1 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Instruction Notes
The fascia, hood latch, air baffle, air dams, windshield washer fluid reservoir and (if equipped) coolant lines are removed and reinstalled for the baseplate 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 BX8869 Tail Light Wiring Kit is recommended for this vehicle.
[Diagram: Tail light assembly with an arrow indicating where to drill a hole for the wiring kit.]
ℹ️ 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.
- Do not use the towed vehicle for storing luggage, equipment, etc. This may cause you to exceed the towing capacity of the tow bar, baseplate and its accessories.
- Be sure to use Loctite® Red on all bolts before tightening. Tighten all bolts according to the torque chart provided.
- Dealer or installer be certain the user receives these instruction sheet.
- 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.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 2 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Tools Required
- Large Vise Grip
- Reciprocating Saw
- Utility Knife
- Phillips Screwdriver
- Torque Wrench
- Drill
- Tape Measure
- Loctite® RED
- 13/32" Drill Bit
- 1-1/4" Hole Saw
- 7MM Socket
- 10MM Socket
- 12MM Socket
- 9/16" Socket
- 9/16" Wrench
Parts List
[Diagram: Exploded view of baseplate and mounting hardware with numbered parts.]
| Item No. | Part No. | Description | Qty. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 61-6416 | BX3332 Baseplate | 1 |
| 2 | 61-5208 | 3/8"-16 Nut Plate w/ Wire | 8 |
| 3 | 201-0440 | 3/8"-16 x 1-1/2" Hex Head Bolt, Grade 5, ZP | 8 |
| 4 | 203-0010 | 3/8" Lock Washer, ZP | 8 |
| 5 | 203-0002 | 5/16" Flat Washer, ZP | 6 |
| 6 | 203-0003 | 3/8" Flat Washer, ZP | 4 |
| 7 | 101-6645 | Electrical Bracket, 20 Degree | 1 |
| 8 | 201-0050 | 1/4"-20 x 3/4" Hex Head Bolt, Grade 5, ZP | 3 |
| 9 | 203-0008 | 1/4" Lock Washer, ZP | 2 |
| 10 | 202-0069 | 1/4" Hex Flange Whiz Nut, ZP | 2 |
| 11 | 201-0192 | #10-32 x 1/2" Slotted Round Head Screw | 2 |
| 12 | 203-0054 | #10 Lock Washer | 2 |
| 13 | 202-0047 | #10-32 Hex Nut | 2 |
| 14 | 101-5822 | 4 Way Adapter Connector | 2 |
| 15 | 201-0654 | #10-16 Self Drilling Screw, ZP | 2 |
| 16 | 203-0001 | 1/4" Flat Washer, ZP | 3 |
| 17 | 62-3469 | Attachment Tab Assembly | 2 |
| 18 | 61-6493 | TT Frame Bracket | 1 |
| 19 | 201-0655 | 6MM-1.0 x 30MM Hex Head Bolt, Grade 8.8, ZP | 1 |
| 20 | 203-0161 | 6MM Lock Washer, ZP | 1 |
| 21 | 226-0046(not shown) | Class III Safety Cables | 2 |
| 22 | 229-0359(not shown) | 3/8" Quicklink, ZP | 4 |
| 23 | 290-0437(not shown) | Black Cap Plug Receiver | 2 |
| 24 | 201-0553(not shown) | 1/4"-20 x 1/2" Hex Type F TCS | 2 |
| 25 | 202-0102(not shown) | 1/4"-20 Hex Nylon Nut, ZP | 1 |
| E | Existing Bolt | 1 |
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 3 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Installation Steps
Step 1: Remove Fascia Pushpins
[Image: Top view of a car's front fascia with multiple arrows pointing to locations of pushpins.]
Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove eleven (11) pushpins from the flat plastic piece on top of the fascia.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 4 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 2: Remove Top Fascia Bolts
[Image: Front fascia of a car with arrows pointing to bolts on the top edge.]
Using a 10MM socket, remove the bolt on the top edge of the fascia. Do this on both sides.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 4 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 3: Remove Front Tire Screws
[Image A: Close-up of the area near the front tire showing a screw location. Image B: Area above the front tire showing another screw location.]
Using a 7MM socket, remove the screw just forward of the front tire (3A). Up above the front tire, remove another screw (3B). Do this to both sides.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 4 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 4: Remove License Plate Screws and Pushpins
[Image: Front fascia below the license plate showing a screw location and an area underneath with pushpin locations indicated by arrows.]
Using a 10MM socket, remove the screw directly below the license plate on the fascia. Further underneath are three (3) pushpins to remove.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 4 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 5: Remove Fascia Screws (Vue/Captiva & Redline Models)
[Image 5A: Front tire area of Vue/Captiva model showing screw locations. Image 5B: Front tire area of Redline model showing screw locations.]
For VUE/CAPTIVA MODELS: Just forward the front tire, underneath the fascia, use a 7MM socket to remove two (2) screws (white). Using a 10MM socket, remove one screw (gray) as shown. Do this to both sides of the vehicle.
For REDLINE MODEL: Just forward the front tire, underneath the fascia, use a 7MM socket to remove two (2) screws (white). Using a 10MM socket, remove one screw (gray) as shown. Do this to both sides of the vehicle.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 5 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 6: Remove Fascia Pushpin and Pull Fascia
[Image: Front grille area showing a black pushpin location indicated by an arrow.]
Straight down in front of the latch and just behind the upper grille, using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the black push pin. Pull fascia corners out to the side of the vehicle, both sides, then pull fascia forward and set aside carefully.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 5 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 7: Disconnect Washer Reservoir Hoses and Plug
[Image: Driver's side of the engine bay showing hoses and electrical connections to the washer reservoir, with arrows pointing to them. A gray arrow points to the main plug.]
On the driver side, disconnect all hoses and electrical connections from the washer reservoir. Also unplug the one main plug in the front (indicated by a gray arrow).
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 5 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 8: Remove Washer Reservoir
[Image 8A: Area forward of the front tire showing two bolt locations indicated by arrows. Image 8B: Lower area showing another bolt location indicated by an arrow.]
Using a 10MM socket, remove two (2) bolts just forward the front tire (8A) and the lower bolt (8B) to remove the washer reservoir.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 5 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 9: Remove Air Baffle Bolts
[Image: Passenger side of the vehicle showing two bolt locations on the air baffle indicated by arrows.]
On the passenger side, using a 10MM socket, remove the two (2) bolts from the air baffle.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 6 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 10: Remove Bumper Push Pin
[Image: Passenger side of the bumper, below the headlight, showing a push pin location indicated by an arrow.]
On the passenger side only, remove the push pin that is on the backside of the bumper, just below the headlight, by pushing the center piece out.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 6 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 11: Remove Bumper Bolts
[Image: Front bumper area showing four bolt locations indicated by arrows.]
Remove four (4) bolts using a 12MM socket. Do this to both sides of the vehicle. Set aside the metal bumper for later reinstallation.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 6 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 12: Remove H-Frame Bumper Bolt and Wire Harness Pushpins
[Image 12A: Center of the H-frame bumper showing a bolt location and two pushpin locations indicated by gray arrows. Image 12B: Front of the vehicle near the passenger side showing coolant line bolts indicated by arrows.]
Using a 10MM socket, remove one (1) bolt from the center of the metal H-frame bumper. Also remove two (2) pushpins located behind the metal piece (gray arrows) from the wire harness (12A). If equipped, uninstall the coolant line bolts on the front of the vehicle and from the passenger side (12B). Carefully move the coolant line aside for baseplate installation.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 6 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 13: Remove Temperature Sensor and Release H-Frame Bumper
[Image: Close-up of the center of the metal bumper showing a temperature sensor bracket and clips.]
In the center of the metal bumper is a temperature sensor that needs to be removed. Depress clips on the front side of the bracket and push the sensor back and set up out of the way. This will all be reinstalled in the same place later. Pull H-Frame bumper forward to release.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 7 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 14: Remove Air Dam Push Pins
[Image: Passenger side of the air dam showing a push pin location indicated by an arrow.]
On the passenger side, remove the push pin from the top of the air dam. Do this to both sides.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 7 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 15: Remove Wire Loom Christmas Tree Pin
[Image: Driver's side showing a wire loom held by a Christmas tree pin.]
On the driver's side, remove the Christmas tree pin holding the wire loom. Pull wire loom out of the way.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 7 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 16: Remove Frame Extension Bolts
[Image 16A: Top view of frame extension showing two bolt locations. Image 16B: Bottom view of frame extension showing two bolt locations.]
To remove the frame extension, remove four (4) bolts: two (2) on top (16A), two (2) on the bottom (16B), using a 12MM socket. Do this to both sides.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 7 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 17: Measure and Mark Frame Side
[Image: Side view of the vehicle frame end with a tape measure showing a 1-1/2" mark.]
Measure and mark on the side of the frame end 1-1/2" wide. Do this to both sides. **NOTE:** 1-1/2" measurement may vary depending on the model of vehicle and is intended to be flush with the side of the frame (see photo in Step 19).
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 8 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 18: Cut Frame Extension
[Image: Side view of the frame extension showing a horizontal cut line and an angled cut line indicated by a gray arrow.]
Using a reciprocating saw, start a horizontal cut flush with the frame 1-3/4" down from the top and go down to 8", then down at an angle to miss the bolt hole (see gray arrow). Do this to both sides.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 8 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 19: Reinstall Frame Extension and Cut
[Image: Passenger and Driver side views showing the frame extensions after cutting and reinstallation, with arrows indicating alignment.]
Reinstall frame extension, mark and remove the same area as step 18 with a reciprocating saw. The photos show the extensions after completion. It may be necessary to remove the extensions to cut them. NOTE: Leave the weld nut on the passenger's side, and the threaded stud for the water reservoir on the to be reinstalled on the driver's side. Reinstall the passenger's side frame extension. The driver's side will be reinstalled later.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 8 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 20: Drill Hole in Frame Extension
[Image: Frame extension with an indent, showing a 1-1/4" hole saw drilling a hole in the center.]
With a 1-1/4" hole saw, drill a hole into the center of the indent on the frame extension to set wire nut for baseplate installation. Do this to both sides.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 9 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 21: Remove Hood Latch Bolts
[Image: Area around the hood latch showing two bolt locations indicated by arrows.]
Remove two (2) bolts holding the hood latch in with a 10MM socket. Set aside for later reinstallation BEFORE the bumper bracket.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 9 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 22: Trim Air Dam
[Image: Side view of the air dam showing measurements for trimming: 1-1/2" wide by 2" tall.]
With a utility knife, trim the air dam 1-1/2" wide by 2" tall. This is done only on the passenger side.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 9 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 23: Reinstall Frame Extension and Align Baseplate
[Image: Passenger and Driver side views showing the frame extension being reinstalled and the baseplate being aligned. A 1/4" measurement is indicated.]
Reinstall driver's side frame extension while sliding the baseplate onto the frame end, then reinstall the extension. Clamp and align the lower edge of the baseplate flush with the ridge on the side of the extension and 1/4" above the top ridge of the frame extension (see photos in steps 24 and 25 for correct placement). Align the large hole on the passenger side with the existing large hole on the frame extension and adjust the driver side an equal distance forward. Using the baseplate as a template, drill all holes into the frame and extension with a 13/32" drill bit. Do this to both sides.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 9 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 24: Tighten Baseplate and Frame Extension
[Image: Side view showing the baseplate aligned with the frame extension ridge, with gray arrows indicating tightening points.]
Be sure that the baseplate is level with the frame extension ridge before tightening (see gray arrows). Insert nut plates into the frame extension end and align with baseplate holes. Install all 3/8-16 x 1 1/2" hex bolts with 3/8" lock washers into the nut plates and tighten down. Do this to both sides.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 10 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 25: Fill Gap and Secure Baseplate
[Image: Close-up showing flat washers being placed between the baseplate and extension to fill a gap, before inserting a bolt.]
Place two 5/16" or 3/8" flat washers between the baseplate and extension as needed to fill the gap, then insert a 3/8"-16 x 1-1/2" hex bolt and 3/8" lock washer, tighten into the nut plate.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 10 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 26: Reinstall Hood Latch and Bumper
[Image: Front of the vehicle showing the reinstalled hood latch assembly and bumper. A gray arrow points to the location for coolant line bolts.]
Reinstall hood latch assembly and metal bumper by using existing holes and bolts. NOTE: If equipped with coolant lines, install into the existing hole above where lines were located when removed, using the supplied 1/4"-20 x 3/4" bolt, 1/4" flat washer and 1/4"-20 lock nut (gray arrow). Reconnect the coolant line on the passenger side.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 10 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 27: Reinstall Washer Reservoir
[Image: Engine bay showing the washer reservoir being reinstalled with clips for fluid and electrical lines.]
Reinstall the washer reservoir with the existing bolts, clip fluid and electrical lines back into place.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 10 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 28: Reattach Air Baffle
[Image: Front of the vehicle showing the air baffle being reattached with existing holes and bolts.]
Reattach air baffle with existing holes and existing bolts.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 11 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 29: Install Electrical Connector
[Image 29A: Vue/Captiva model showing the lower metal bumper support with a 3/16" gap indicated, and connector placement. Image 29B: Redline model showing a bolt and washer placement for the connector bracket.]
For VUE / CAPTIVA MODELS: Keeping a 3/16" gap to the right of the center on the lower metal bumper support, place the connector as high as you can on the webbing and install with #10-16 self-drilling screws and 1/4" flat washers.
For REDLINE MODEL: Use the existing bolt in the top hole of the connector and install with a 6MM x 30MM hex bolt and 6MM lock washers with two (2) 5/16" washers behind to get the bracket flush.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 11 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 30: Attach Safety Cables
[Image: Close-up of the baseplate showing a convenience link for attaching safety cables, and an example of cable attachment to the vehicle frame.]
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 the frame of the 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 instructions included with the permanent baseplate safety cables. Be sure the safety cables do not rub against any hoses or moving parts. Do this to both sides of the vehicle.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 11 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 31: Reinstall Fascia (Redline Model)
[Image: Front of a Redline model car showing the fascia being held in place, with arrows indicating alignment and trim points.]
REDLINE MODEL: Hold fascia as close to its original position as possible, trim grille opening as needed. Reinstall fascia, then install connector plug using appropriate hardware for either a 4-way connector plug or 6-way connector plug.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 12 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
Step 32: Reinstall Fascia (Vue/Captiva Models)
[Image: Front of a Vue/Captiva model car showing the fascia being held in place, with arrows indicating alignment and trim points.]
VUE/CAPTIVA MODELS: Hold fascia as close to its original position as possible, trim grille opening as needed. Reinstall fascia, then install connector plug using appropriate hardware for either a 4-way connector plug or 6-way connector plug.
Document Revision: 292-2999 Rev J, Page 12 of 12, Date: 5/6/13
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 customer care 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.
