Ford tailgate removal/harness connector hell

[dfuson]

I am driving a 2021 F150 ford and 3-4 times a year load my Fleet FWC. No major issues EXCEPT the hellish wiring harness for the tailgate (camera, lights, etc). Four connectors located under the bed, just behind the bumper. It is an impossible location to see what you are doing. And the nylon clips that hold the connectors in place are extremely difficult to engage/disengage. At this point, I've had to use a flat head screwdriver enough times that the clips no longer work and I'm using black electrical tape to hold the connectors in place.

Does anyone know of a modification that would make this an easier job? Move the harness connectors? Extension wiring?

Any help appreciated. Please do not suggest the Ford dealership.

 

[fish more]

I've never experienced any problems with the wiring plugs on my Super Duty, I would think they would be the same. Is there alot of corrosion or mud on the connectors? Also had no problem when I had my Hawk on a F150 either.

 

[Jon R]

I pull the tailgate off about twice a year on my GMC. For short periods I have the camper off i leave the tailgate off if I don’t really need it.

I am using two 12 inch, cheap amazon FAKRA extensions that I leave on the tailgate and on the truck camera connectors and I make and break the connection between the extensions. I don’t want to wear out the OEM connectors. The extension cords were $6 each.

 

[penner]

I pull the tailgate off about twice a year on my GMC. For short periods I have the camper off i leave the tailgate off if I don’t really need it.

I am using two 12 inch, cheap amazon FAKRA extensions that I leave on the tailgate and on the truck camera connectors and I make and break the connection between the extensions. I don’t want to wear out the OEM connectors. The extension cords were $6 each.

Hey Jon. Do you have a link to the connector/extensions you used? I have a 2020 Chev and it's a real pain disconnecting that main harness. Thanks

 

[Jon R]

Hey Jon. Do you have a link to the connector/extensions you used? I have a 2020 Chev and it's a real pain disconnecting that main harness. Thanks

Sorry Penner. I just noticed your question today. Here is the amazon link for what I bought:

https://www.amazon.com/Bingfu-Extension-Compatible-Navigation-Telematics/dp/B09TZW4XGG?th=1&psc=1

 

[penner]

Sorry Penner. I just noticed your question today. Here is the amazon link for what I bought:

https://www.amazon.com/Bingfu-Extension-Compatible-Navigation-Telematics/dp/B09TZW4XGG?th=1&psc=1

Sent a PM Jon.