Staff Answer
Oct 20, 2026 - 10:31 AM
No, you generally do not have to leave the splash shield or lower air dam completely off permanently, but minor trimming is usually required so it can clear the new baseplate structure and be reinstalled.
When installing the Blue Ox BX2698 Baseplate on a Ford Bronco, the lower shielding, fascia components, and factory tow hooks must be removed to access the frame and bolt the baseplate directly to the chassis.
While some owners or installers might be tempted to leave the plastic splash shield or lower air deflector off for easier access, keeping it is recommended to protect your engine bay components from debris. To reinstall it properly after the baseplate is bolted down, you will typically need to measure and trim a small section of the plastic where it interferes with the new baseplate brackets, allowing you to put the shield back in place. Always reference your specific printed Blue Ox instruction sheet or test-fit the shield during reassembly to see where clearance cuts are needed.
