Hi folks,
I've seen it discussed here before; I want to permanently install a 7pin connector inside the pickup bed above the left wheel well but I don't want to splice into the factory trailer wiring harness (under the pickup bed) unless the factory says they've provided a place for splicing. Does anyone know if the factory provides such a spot? Looking at the front of the factory 7pin connector, perhaps Dodge (or somebody else) may manufacture a parallel connector that “plugs-in” at the front of the factory 7pin to run an additional connector inside the bed. Has anyone asked Dodge or aware of a Technical Service Bulletin concerning this?

 

on mine can unplug it and leave a rectanglar looking box hanging there. So you could run a adpter from that up to where ever or fashon a plug that goes into your round one and go to where ever

 

Nat,
There is an extension as the previous post says, but you lose the plug on the bumper when you use it. It is not difficult at all to splice into the factory wiring. The main thing is do not use the crimp on splicers - - strip back a little insulation and solder the new wires into existing. It took me about one hour to complete the connections and installation. If you looked under the truck, it looks just like a factory job with the same wire covering.
Bob

 

I agree with FiverBob just splice into the harness then solder the connections this will give you 2 plugs one in the bed and one on the rear

I have 2 bed plugins because of the way my trailers are wired.....and I also have one power plugin (12 volt) for the winches inside my trailer thats tapped off my truck battery

 

This was brought up awhile back and I remember a member stated how he did his and I thougth it was such a great idea that I did mine that way, he went and bought a length of wire specificly for a 7 pin and made him a plug to plug into the back and ran it along underneath securing it as he went and up to a permanet plug in the bed,now when he needs the rear plug he just unplugs the extension and he has both afforded to him, It works well as I use my bumper alot for other trailers and like my fith wheel in the bed. Goodluck, Ricik

 

I considered doing this, but I don't like all those plug-in's. You loose that sucker and I am 23000# trying to stop with just the truck brakes. Every plug in is another potential problem. I guess it is OK for occassional usage in the bed, but I would not want the plug I use the most (in the bed) being an extension cord.

 

Well fiver don't tell the big rigs that. Most if not all trailers are wired that way. Easy maintenance. I have the extension harness and NEVER had a problem towing for 19 years. Maintenance my man, maintenance. You got an e brake dontcha???

 

There are also things called zip ties that hold the plug into the bumper plug, which by the way I use on extended driving periods anyway when I used to plug up to the bumper. The cover also is designed to help keep it in. 6 ways half dozen others as long as it is safe ??? Goodluck, Rick

 

Yep, been there and done that too. I did have problems - - maybe that is why I am gunshy on them. But, you are right - - they use lots of "extensions" on the lights. A little different when the brakes are involved, not just lights. Had to run one rig up the side of a mountain when the air went out. Fun.

I do make it a habit to tie down my cover onto the plug with a short bungie. I had the wire come loose on this rig when it was hung over the tailgate. Really odd feeling trying to stop with just the truck brakes. Not fun.

 

Thanks loads guys. I'm waiting a response from Dodge to an email (on their website) I sent a week ago asking for techproc and parts list for installing said receptacle. I'll repost when I hear from them with the "factory solution".
Since I won't be pulling but one trailer at a time anyway, I took the easy route and made a 7-pin extension cord and installed it permanently between the panels of the left side pickup bed with an exit underneath where the taillight loom attaches to the left frame rail. I tie-wrapped it to the same strain reliefs. There's plenty of room above and behind the spare tire to mount a hanger to keep the plug out of the way and a balloon makes a good weather-tite seal. Thanks for the help

 

Here's my two cents...I, too, installed an extension I made myself. The female end is hard wired in the bed for our fifth-wheel. The male end plugs into the existing connector at the receiver hitch below the bumper. The harness is tie-wrapped securely to the frame below the bed. When I need to tow a pull trailer I simply unplug the extension, it stows neatly between the spare tire and bumper, then plug in the towable. For safety all 7-pin and 9-pin male plugs have on the top side a **** sticking up. The cover of the receptacle has an indentation that matches the **** to hold it in place. As some have stated, a tie-wrap to hold it down is an added measure of safety, if you want.

 

I had meant to say that I do use a dust cap over the male end of the harness when it's not in use. Also put one on the end of the trailer's harness when stored.

 

Thanks again, sounds like we're on the same page. Already have a cap on the plug of the trailer.

 

Anyone have a diagram of how this should be wired? I have the plug already in the bed and am having a problem when I plug the trailer in, just want to check the wires and make sure they are correct.

 

Should be marked on the plug. Get a testlight and a helper and go through all the pins. Don't use a DVOM, it does not pull enough amps.