What a hassle - removing the tailgate means removing the plug to the BU camera - which is under the bed and beside the frame in a three plug connector which you have to "guess which one" first ... and then become a contortionist to reach and pull it. And, you need to be strong enough to do fingertip-pushups as well, because I could not pull it out.And, it's almost impossible to reach without rolling under the bed... a very poor design .. each time you remove the TG, all this PITA ...The plug requires a screwdriver to clip the pin safety off as well.I would think if you need to remove something, it would be at least accessible. Very strange ...

They're already selling 2015 models? I know on my Ford, it's easiest if I drop the tailgate, pull it out and set it on a couple of saw horses. Then I can easily reach the plug.

It's the same on the 2013s. GM says you're supposed to put caps over the plugs to protect them from the elements. That's why I don't plan to remove my tailgate.

I can hardly reach it to get it out, much less put a cap over it ... We NEED it off often because we haul a truck camper -- and I imagine the 5'ers need if off for the in-bed rigging ... so, what a poor design ... if they want to you remove it, it should be accessible, like the trailer lights ... right there in the bumper.

Just curious, you make it sound like you take the tailgate off twice a week. I've had a truck for as long as I can remember and have only taken the tailgate off once. Now granted I don't have a 5th wheel but is it really necessary to remove the tailgate often?On edit: Monkey you answered my question as I was typing it. Your response makes sense.

On my '11, it is easily accessible. Remove the rear license plate and the plug is right there, behind the plate.

removing tailgate - 2015 GM trucks w/BU-Camera | Good Sam Community

TucsonJim
Explorer II
Mar 06, 2014
They're already selling 2015 models?

I know on my Ford, it's easiest if I drop the tailgate, pull it out and set it on a couple of saw horses. Then I can easily reach the plug.
DavisK
Explorer
Mar 06, 2014
It's the same on the 2013s. GM says you're supposed to put caps over the plugs to protect them from the elements. That's why I don't plan to remove my tailgate.
monkey44
Nomad II
Mar 06, 2014
I can hardly reach it to get it out, much less put a cap over it ... We NEED it off often because we haul a truck camper -- and I imagine the 5'ers need if off for the in-bed rigging ... so, what a poor design ... if they want to you remove it, it should be accessible, like the trailer lights ... right there in the bumper.
camperforlife
Explorer
Mar 06, 2014
Just curious, you make it sound like you take the tailgate off twice a week. I've had a truck for as long as I can remember and have only taken the tailgate off once. Now granted I don't have a 5th wheel but is it really necessary to remove the tailgate often?

On edit: Monkey you answered my question as I was typing it. Your response makes sense.
The_Texan
Explorer
Mar 06, 2014
On my '11, it is easily accessible. Remove the rear license plate and the plug is right there, behind the plate.
mguay
Explorer
Mar 06, 2014
DavisK wrote:
It's the same on the 2013s. GM says you're supposed to put caps over the plugs to protect them from the elements. That's why I don't plan to remove my tailgate.

On my '13...the two plugs are configured so they can be plugged back into each other to "seal" them up.
monkey44
Nomad II
Mar 06, 2014
GM Made a change, apparently - it is behind the license plate, but when you remove the plate, you're staring at the spare tire, and the plug is to the left of it, drivers side. Then you have to squeeze your fingers around in a rather awkward position, and then you have no leverage, nor can you even see it. It's all by feel.

Maybe some people don't take it off much -- but my tailgate comes off a lot - due to the Truck Camper ... and the main thing here, if GM even says you can take it off "Occasionally" it still a real, true PITA ...
The_Texan
Explorer
Mar 06, 2014
Drop the spare about 6" and you'll have all the room you want, to unplug.
_DJ_1
Explorer II
Mar 06, 2014
Mine was under the bed behind the spare tire. Since my truck is lifted you can not reach it lying flat on your back and there is only room for one hand.

I took it all loose from the wire ties and got enough slack to re-mount it at the opening between the tailgate and bed when the gate is open. Now I just open the tailgate, bring up the connector through the opening (it is held by a thick rubber band) unhook it and replace the protective cap.
monkey44
Nomad II
Mar 06, 2014
I'll probably try to remount it in a better position -- or talk to a 'electron tech' and see if I can just get an extension.

With the TC, we remove the tailgate pretty often ... every time we camp, actually.