Solution for 5th Wheel Wiring for 1998 Dodge Ram 1500 Without Factory Trailer Connector

Question:

98 dodge ram 1500 with factor tow package. But does not have a 7 way plug or any plug a rear of my truck. It has the brake controller plug in under the dash, fuse box has the 40 amp for a trailer in it. Problem is, how do I find where the wires go from the brake controller plug? They go through the fire wall and under the cab and end some where? The tow harness does not go all the way back to the receiver hitch. I need to install a 7 way in the bed of my truck for a 5th wheel trailer. Im stuck, can you help?

asked by: Nick W

Expert Reply:

If you want to attempt to use the factory wiring that is already in place, you will have to trace the wires to see where they go. There is no specific information on where the wiring may lead on a 98 Ram without a factory connector. I would at least check for power on the brake controller plug you found with a circuit tester like # PTW2993 before attempting to trace the wires. If this is not working you can save yourself some trouble.

Assuming there is some kind of usable wiring running from this connection, you could splice in the # 20023 you were looking at and use it for your 5th wheel. You will also need to check the wiring you traced with a circuit tester to make sure everything is working properly.

If there is no usable wiring you will need to install a new 7-way. You can start with the # 118329 for a 4-way and then the # ETBC7 to upgrade it to a 7-way. Once these are installed, you can use the Curt Universal 5th Wheel/Gooseneck 7-Way Extension # C56080 for your 5th wheel.

I have attached an installation video for your reference.