2nd plug for 5th wheel

Darrell · 08-04-2013, 09:00 AM

Has anyone installed a second 7-pin plug in the box of their truck? I am looking at installing a second one for my 5th wheel. I am not too crazy about the heavy wire hanging down over the back of my tailgate (not a fiver tailgate). I saw a few Youtube videos - but I do not want to bore a large hole in the body. Any ideas?

WildWildWest · 08-04-2013, 10:17 AM

The second connector is easy to install with the right harness. Plugs inline behind the one on the bumper and you can drill a single hole in the bed for it. I did my own and it's just one hole to drill in the side of the bed. I placed mine just behind the wheel well on the driver side. Well worth it.

You can find the harness cheaper than this but it is an example.
http://www.etrailer.com/Custom-Fit-V...51-97-410.html

WoodcarvingGypsy · 08-04-2013, 11:35 AM

I had that done by the local RV dealer on both my 2008 Chevy and 2013 GMC. Cost was about $100 each time and they did all checkout and troubleshooting. Both trucks came wired for 5th wheel (additional wiring harness) and had 7-way plugs at the bumper.

I really didn't like the cable hanging down either so that's why I did it.

Al

socoguy · 08-04-2013, 11:53 AM

I have the in bed connection the cord lays in truck bed and is not subject to road forces. Your hitch and brake cable are in the bed so why not you electrical connect. Not a difficult DIY or not a big expense to use your dealer.

Stan · 08-04-2013, 12:26 PM

Ditto. Mine is just behind the drivers side rear wheel as well. Much better than over the tailgate. If your truck was wired for a 5er then the harness is between the bed and cab. If I remember correctly, you will have to add a fuse in the engine compartment fuse box to power the red 12v main wire and also connect the red wire to the stud in the fuse box..

WoodcarvingGypsy · 08-04-2013, 11:09 PM

Mine had the fuse already installed but the little red wire was hidden under the fuse box and not connected. The RV install guy had a test box that would show all connections using lighted indicators and he could plug it between the truck and coach to check brake current and such.

cowboy_71 · 08-05-2013, 12:28 PM

Added one in the bed on drivers side too...way better...

happycampers · 08-05-2013, 12:41 PM

I added one in the bed too. I just fished the wire up the rear quarter above the wheel and out the stake pocket and mounted just above the wheel well. Afterwards, I had seen another installation where someone had bored a hole in the side of the box and flush mounted it. I wish I had gone that route instead. I guess its just personal preference.

WildWildWest · 08-05-2013, 03:32 PM

Don't be afraid to drill a hole in your bed. It makes your fifth wheel connection a lot easier.

Buddy · 08-05-2013, 07:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Darrell

Has anyone installed a second 7-pin plug in the box of their truck? I am looking at installing a second one for my 5th wheel. I am not too crazy about the heavy wire hanging down over the back of my tailgate (not a fiver tailgate). I saw a few Youtube videos - but I do not want to bore a large hole in the body. Any ideas?

It along with my B&W companion hitch was included in on the price of the Crossroads Redwood by the dealer.

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