12v power outlet

tshank · 09-18-2005, 09:27 AM

I was wondering if anyone has installed a 12v power outlet in the bed, I know it comes as an option on some models, but I don't have it and would like to add one. Does anyone know if the wiring for the factory outlet is hidden somewhere underneath the bed or should I just run wires from the battery? Thanks, Tom

Bayou Titan · 09-18-2005, 09:31 AM

Do you have the Big Tow package?

If you do, you can buy this adapter that turns the trailer wiring outlet into a 12v outlet. The opposite end of the plug (you can't see it in the picture) is where you plug the 12v accessory in.

If you use this, you won't have to do a lot of drilling, wiring, etc. I think this part is good because you can have easy access to the plug even if the bed of your truck is full of dirt, lumber, etc.

http://www.towingtown.com/catalog/p2219.html

Elbo · 09-18-2005, 10:02 AM

You can also make one of those plugs like seen above..

I went to walmart and bought a general adapter that you can plug your own wires into, and then got a weatherproof power recepticle (from walmart Also)
The benefit to this method, is that you can make a longer cord that can reach into your bed to plug items in. It costs about the same as above. All you need to put the item together is pretty much a screw driver.

jpdude999 · 09-18-2005, 10:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tshank

I was wondering if anyone has installed a 12v power outlet in the bed, I know it comes as an option on some models, but I don't have it and would like to add one. Does anyone know if the wiring for the factory outlet is hidden somewhere underneath the bed or should I just run wires from the battery? Thanks, Tom

It's part of the utility bed package.

bestatchess · 09-18-2005, 11:38 AM

What 12V items are you guys using? I have the utility bed with the socket, but have never used it. If I was going to wire from scratch, I would use a big inverter, a relay, and heavy gage wire so I could run 120V power tools.

tshank · 09-18-2005, 03:25 PM

Thanks for the replies, I do have the Big Tow Pak, and have seen those adapter plugs for the trailer tow harness, the problem is you have to have the key on to get power to the plug. I was hoping that the factory wire harness for the 12v outlet for the bed was tucked in somewhere under the bed. I haven't been able to find it using the service manual. I will primarily use the outlet for camping and leaving the key on in the truck overnight would be an exta load on the battery... Guess I will run a harness from the battery to the rear of the truck. Thanks Tom