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alfadog's avatar
alfadog
Explorer
Nov 09, 2016

Quick question from a n00b

Howdy. I am just getting started with RV'ing and have a quick question.

I recently bought a new F-250 with some trailer stuff:
Trailer brake controller.
Trailer sway control.
Trailer tow package.

So it has a receiver and a trailer electrical hook-up by the rear bumper.

Then I won a 5th wheel RV on eBay. An older unit in nice shape that weighs in at about 8k lbs. I am in Miami and need to pick the trailer up a bit north of Atlanta.

I found a very nice Curt Q24 with Ford brackets and rails on Craigslist that I am installing now. Curt Mfg. was kind enough to send me a couple of missing spacers gratis.

OK, so here is my quick question. Will the 5th wheel electrics plug in by the back bumper or is there another pigtail or wiring extension that I will need to buy?

Thanks.

17 Replies

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  • allen8106's avatar
    allen8106
    Explorer
    Nov 09, 2016
    Mine plugs in just fine with more than enough length.

    I expect your should too unless someone has shortened the cable.
  • BB_TX's avatar
    BB_TX
    Nomad
    Nov 09, 2016
    gkainz wrote:
    My 5er cord is long enough to easily reach the bumper mounted plug.

    Mine too. Even on a long bed. I can't remember seeing one with a cord too short to reach the bumper plug.
  • MFL's avatar
    MFL
    Nomad II
    Nov 09, 2016
    I've always used the bumper plug, and with a few rigs, the cord was actually a little long, needing a shock cord to keep from rubbing the tailgate. The rig I have now, using a 13 250 TV, it is just right.

    I don't see you having a problem! Welcome to the forum, and FW towing!

    Jerry
  • gkainz's avatar
    gkainz
    Explorer
    Nov 09, 2016
    My 5er cord is long enough to easily reach the bumper mounted plug.
  • Jack_Diane_Free's avatar
    Jack_Diane_Free
    Explorer
    Nov 09, 2016
    I towed a 5th wheel for 6 years with two different trucks only using the plug by the bumper with absolutely never a problem or disconnect. Worked perfectly.
  • rmoore0852's avatar
    rmoore0852
    Explorer
    Nov 09, 2016
    It should plug in by the bumper, but be careful. If it's too short you can pull wires when you turn. I would add a trailer plug in the bed, it's easy to do and makes life way easier. Surprised the truck with tow package didn't come with it already installed. I bet it's wired for it, just have to add the plug itself. The bumper plug SHOULD be good enough to go pick it up then decide what you want to do.
  • the_bear_II's avatar
    the_bear_II
    Explorer
    Nov 09, 2016
    Most 5th wheel pigtails are too short to plug into a bumper mounted plug. You will need an extension or install a second plug near the wheel well inside the bed of your truck. Pay attention to where you mount it in the bed so that it is easy to access when the trailer is hitched. The one that came with my truck is mounted so that it is very hard to get to when the trailer is hitched. A little forward of the wheel well works best.

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