For owners of Ford Super Duty trucks equipped with the Pro Trailer Backup Assist system, the factory trailer camera system offers a valuable enhancement for safe and precise maneuvering. However, installing the camera on a trailer—particularly a fifth wheel or travel trailer—can be a complex process due to the length and structure of the trailer. This article provides a comprehensive overview of installation techniques, cable routing strategies, and practical insights from real-world experiences shared by Ford owners in online forums.
Understanding the Ford Trailer Camera System
The Ford trailer camera system is designed to integrate with the truck's Pro Trailer Backup Assist and Sync 4 infotainment system. The system includes a high-resolution camera, a wiring harness, and a yaw sensor (for certain models). The camera provides a live feed to the truck’s display, allowing the driver to see the rear of the trailer while backing up. The camera requires a dedicated 4-conductor cable to function, which must be routed from the camera at the rear of the trailer to the 7-pin or 12-pin connector under the truck’s bed.
According to user reports, the image quality of the OEM Ford camera is highly regarded, offering a clear and stable view. Some users have noted that the cable kit includes a branch for the yaw sensor, which helps improve the functionality of the Pro Trailer Backup Assist system by detecting the trailer’s orientation relative to the truck.
Preparing for Installation
Before beginning the installation, it is essential to assess the trailer’s structure and determine the most efficient and least intrusive route for the cable. Fifth wheel and travel trailer installations often require routing the cable through the trailer’s interior, which can involve drilling new holes, removing panels, or using existing access points.
One user shared a detailed approach involving an electrical fish tape, which was inserted through a high mount hole and maneuvered above the trailer’s coreplast insulation into the front compartments. From there, the cable was fished to the fifth-wheel hitch. While this method resulted in a clean installation, the user emphasized that it was a labor-intensive process, requiring careful coordination and planning.
Another approach involved running the cable from the camera along the outside of the trailer, securing it to the propane supply lines using zip ties. This method was described as simpler and more direct, though less aesthetically pleasing. Some users have since improved the appearance by using zip tie mounts to secure the cable in a neater fashion.
Cable Routing Strategies and Techniques
Routing the camera cable through a trailer is often the most challenging part of the installation. Several methods have been shared by users, each with its own advantages and limitations.
One common technique involves fishing the cable through the trailer’s interior. For example, a user described running the wire down the rear wall of the trailer to a compartment housing the water heater. From there, a hole was drilled to the frame, and a fishtape was pushed from the front of the trailer through the frame to the back. The cable was then pulled forward using the fishtape. This method allowed the user to also install the TPMS receiver in the same location, consolidating components for a cleaner setup.
Another user mounted the camera directly to the back wall of the trailer, between the center clearance light and the roof. The cable was run along the roof for a short distance, then secured with zip ties and routed down the side of the trailer along the frame. From there, it was led into a battery or generator compartment where the TPMS receiver was mounted. The user noted that the cable was not immediately visible and had functioned without issues for four years.
For those with limited access or space constraints, a more direct but less concealed method involves running the cable along the outside of the trailer. One user mentioned securing the cable along the propane lines and later using zip tie mounts to improve the appearance. While this method is easier to execute, it sacrifices the clean, hidden look that many users aim for.
Installation Challenges and Solutions
Several common challenges arise during the installation of a Ford trailer camera system, particularly with fifth wheel and travel trailers.
Length of the Cable
The length of the cable is a critical factor, especially for longer trailers. One user noted that the factory cable was 40 feet long, while their fifth wheel was 43 feet long. As a result, they needed to order a 12-pin wire extension to ensure the cable reached from the rear of the trailer to the 7-pin or 12-pin connector under the truck’s bed.
Power Supply for the Camera
The Ford camera requires a stable power source to function correctly. Some trailers, particularly those equipped with a Furrion-style wireless camera system, have prewired running lights but lack a dedicated power supply for a wired camera. One user modified the Furrion mount to accommodate the Ford camera and ran the wire to a compartment with access to 12V and ground. This approach bypassed the limitations of the existing wiring and provided the camera with a consistent power source.
Compatibility with Existing Systems
Some trailers may not be prewired for a factory Ford camera, requiring additional modifications. One user reported that their trailer was only "camera-prepped," meaning it had a plastic cap and a loop of wire that connected to the running lights. While this allowed the use of a wireless camera like the Furion, it limited functionality to when the running lights were on. To avoid this limitation, the user opted for the Ford camera and made the necessary modifications to integrate it with the trailer’s electrical system.
Wireless Alternatives and Considerations
For users who prefer a simpler installation, wireless camera systems offer a viable alternative. These systems eliminate the need to run a physical cable through the trailer and can be mounted using existing mounting points.
One user shared their experience with a wireless camera system that included a monitor capable of displaying up to four cameras in a quad view. While this provided a 360-degree view of the trailer, it required a separate monitor to be mounted in the truck, which some users found less convenient than the integrated Ford system.
Another user highlighted the advantages of the Ford system, particularly its integration with the Sync 4 infotainment system. While the Ford system requires running a cable through the trailer, it offers a more seamless experience by displaying the camera feed directly on the truck’s touchscreen. Some users also noted that the Ford system is more durable and less prone to interference compared to wireless alternatives.
Advanced Features and Future Developments
Ford has announced a 360-degree trailer view system that will integrate cameras mounted on the trailer with the truck’s existing 360-degree camera system. This system is expected to provide a comprehensive overhead view of the entire rig, including both the truck and the trailer. According to one user, this feature was showcased during the 2023 Ford reveal and is expected to be available in the future.
Until this system becomes widely available, users can enhance their experience with the current Ford camera system by adding additional cameras. Some have suggested using a single monitor capable of displaying multiple camera feeds for a 360-degree view. This approach allows for greater flexibility and can be more cost-effective than purchasing a complete Ford system.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Once installed, the Ford trailer camera system generally requires minimal maintenance. However, users should periodically inspect the cable for signs of wear, especially at points where it is secured to the trailer. Zip ties and cable clips should be checked for tightness to prevent the cable from becoming loose or damaged due to vibration.
If the camera feed becomes unstable or the image quality deteriorates, users should check the power supply and connections. A loose or damaged wire can cause the camera to lose power or transmit an unclear signal. In some cases, reseating the connector or replacing a damaged section of the cable may be necessary.
Conclusion
Installing a Ford trailer camera system on a fifth wheel or travel trailer can significantly enhance safety and ease of use during towing operations. While the process may be more complex than simply attaching a wireless camera, the benefits of integration with the truck’s infotainment and Pro Trailer Backup Assist systems make it a worthwhile investment for many owners.
By following established cable routing techniques and adapting them to the trailer’s structure, users can achieve a clean and functional installation. Whether running the cable through the interior, along the frame, or around the exterior, the key is to plan carefully and execute the installation with attention to detail.
As Ford continues to develop advanced features such as the 360-degree trailer view system, the future of trailer camera technology looks promising. For now, the existing Ford system provides a reliable and high-quality solution for those looking to improve their towing experience.