How to Install Putco Blade LED Tailgate Light Bar

[@Realtruck]

Check out the Putco Blade Light Bar on your pickup truck! bit.ly/2lA57JI

[@Wayne1952]

Pop out both taillights , Splice one wire onto right side brake lite wire , Feed it through frame to the left hand tail light , then you can hook onto left brake wire , tail light wire , and back up wire, much easier. AND NO TRAILER WARNINGS on the dash.

[@marcuswhite1403]

Makes more sense to hook it up your way

[@HeyJoe1978]

Yeah man this dude in the video doesn’t know jack! He call a simple clip a “stand-off”. What is that? I have been a mechanic for over 20 years and a body/frame tech for over 15 and never heard that term ever! I just wanted to know left and right on the harness cause the bar came with zero instructions!

[@DeepPocketsEnt]

How do you know which wires are which though

[@Wayne1952]

@@DeepPocketsEnt Use a 12 volt tester, It looks like an Ice Pick.

[@baseball1baseball1]

What they fail to mention in the video is, if you wire it this way, yes it will work but you will have a “trailer connected, trailer disconnected” come up on your dash constantly while driving and if you have bliss (blind spot sensors” they will constantly go on and off because the truck thinks there is a trailer connected. The correct way would be to use the ground to the hitch and wire everything else to the perspective tail lights. I had to learn the hard way... not sure why they don’t make this clear and send instructions for wiring to the trailer hitch or the tail lights.

[@arcticnl8752]

I am having same issue with my 2016 F150 Lariat. Thank you for writing this comment.

[@joenan5150]

Excelente comentario y muy cierto..

[@worst141]

And on new 250s u can’t wire direct to tail light. U need harness. There’s a separate brake and run light wire that u can’t connect to bar w out factory harness

[@johng5417]

After installing aftermarket products and lighting in New England for over 25 years, I would highly recommend you do not use those t-tap connections. In the colder weather, those connections will fail every time. I always solder my connections and use a weather proof heat shrink wrap for a never fail connection.

[@nike1rosa]

John G thanks bud .

[@MrSuzukiyamaha]

Hey Mr. 25 years, It's not a T tap. It's a Scotch lock.

[@dleighton5741]

Those scotch locks are garbage, I wouldn't even use them high and dry inside the cab.

[@iaingrieve9598]

Ok boomer

[@andrewmyralane6673]

Yep. I agree.

[@goodsman40]

I really want to install mine on top of the tail gate so it would brighten up good

[@msmoni694581]

My putco right side of the bar is not lighting up. What do you think the problem is?

[@worst141]

Did this method on a 22 250 and still tripped the trailer alarms. Have to get the factory light harness for the tail light hookup

[@nickdacloush5811]

Super excellent tutorial. Thank you sir❤❤😂

[@tommyc4996]

Can this be wired so that it illuminates only when the brakes are applied? Maybe splice into the 3rd bake light?

[@BennyRiot]

Is this the same process for a 2020 ford ranger.

[@Johnny-bx7tb]

Great instruction an on a very clean install. Thanks

[@Realtruck]

Thanks for watching!

[@MrStingray186]

one year in snow you will be having electrical problems. soldered joint with a coat of silicone then slip heat shrink over it before the silicone sets up and then place the harness in a loom. I have connections on my semi-truck that have lasted 5 years of snow and are good as the day I did them.

[@dansherwood1043]

On a 2018 sierra/Silverado the wiring box will NOT fit between number and valance you will need to go around the outside of the number and up inside and zip tie to wires above. Blue wire is NOT used on truck wiring. Green//white wire is backup, grey/brown are running lights and the main loom connected to the factory 7 pin does NOT have enough length to wire behind the bumper without a pita. Easier to get down under the truck once the spare is dropped and moved out of the way and wire things up inside so you have more wiring length and can actually get to the need wires for the scotch locks and you'll reduce swear words by 75%.

[@christophertorres9568]

Will it be the same thing for a 2000 ford f150?

[@hustler1878]

GREAT CONTENT HELPS OUT !!!

[@Realtruck]

Thanks for watching!

[@BigBaby1020]

Great how to! Clean install!

[@LVMMMAAA43]

How do install on Dodge Ram 1500 2001..???

[@toddcochrane9234]

On the passenger side there is two holes, was there two screws in it? That’s what is on my f150

[@davidnano575]

The secret sauce are those connector pins to connect the wires. Where do I get those from?

[@besty2823]

Could you use a T-Connector instead of splicing the wires together?

[@Realtruck]

+Logan, It's possible that you can use a T-connector. Unfortunately, we aren't able to get into wiring and everything so if you have questions you would have to ask Putco directly.

[@underatedmuscle]

If you had to replace the light bar, do those quick connects cut the wire so you would have to re solder or no?

[@hotfuzz6283]

My son bought an A brother triple led 60"bar. Ing off lights are correct. With ignition on he got canbus issues eg the sequential amber turn signals just part lit and did not scroll. Running light flickers. We installed some canbus resistors and it helped. If I order from you how does your unit cope with canbus . NB his van was a UK VW caddy . Mine would be on a Vaux Insignia 2011. The US version is a Buick Regal Thks

[@chefbillyx]

Great explanation and clear video, but your asking for problems with those red splice clips and electric tape. It won't last a Canadian or the Northern US winter.

[@Realtruck]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@chefbillyx]

@@Realtruck do they make a harness adapter?

[@husamalwadi7777]

When I installed this on my truck it turned off the back up sensors and tells me there is a trailer connected to my truck

[@bobbella4812]

Theres certain lights that say you have to have a box for that reason reach put to the company they will explain.

[@pierremounier7305]

Would I get.a.trailer warning on the dash if I connect.to a trailer harness on a 2015 siverado

[@fastfreddie831]

Great instruction video

[@singhbhullar8592]

Great. Thanks for explaining

[@ScottRGarcia123]

No reverse light?

[@joshk9119]

does this work the same way for the ram 1500

[@terrynewman3665]

Basically yes but I also bought the Curtis harness that plugs in on the backside of your factory harness. So it is all just plugged in. It's much cleaner only splice then is for backup lights

[@OutsideLiving]

T-tap connections and electrical tape: Yikes! I couldn't see that lasting one Canadian Winter. Solder and use heat shrinks... then run a conduit.

[@graysailor]

Will this work on a 2017 SuperDuty. These truck have a plastic piece about 12" long in the middle of the tale gate where your product would go. Thanks.

[@Realtruck]

Yes, they have an application that would work for the 17 SuperDuty. If you'd like to give our sales team a call they can get you the correct part number.

[@choyfamilyadventures]

Todd - where have you been? Glad you're back.

[@Realtruck]

dccaptcrash been busy planing the next project. Thanks it's good to be back.

[@khurshidanwar9923]

Thank you, for explaining it so good.

[@Carbon15556]

Question for the expert.....I have a 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali and brings the tow package in....I bought 60” LED taillight similar like the one you just installed ....I plugged the 4 pin connector directly into the GMC tow switch connector who has a 4 pins connector and a 7 circle connector to see how they look and to determine which side the signal light will be blinking first....as soonest I plugged into the switch on the back of the vehicle , the 60” taillights came on but suddenly came off so I proceed to unplugged and connected back again and the same thing happen again....I was able to hear like a solenoid or small computer nearby the spare tire kicking in and off which make me to believe that I need some type of hardness to bypass that solenoid or computer in the back.....my question is Do I need an extra hardness? Some type of Y connector to bypass camera, bumper sensors, tow package sensors? ....the sad part is I unplugged from my vehicle and plugged into a Ford 250 2006 towing switch and it was perfectly fine and worked like a champ....sometimes technology stinks 😷. Need your help on this one....thanks.

[@chrisloesch1870]

Yes there is a harness

[@justinconcepcion4420]

I have a 2017 chevy wire colors are not the same

[@chrisdm23]

Where’s the adhesion promotor? For $228 you would think it would be included since it’s recommended on the install video , but No! Now I got to purchase some before I can finish installing it .......

[@glenmccall3921]

The lighting kit I received didn’t have the “wire taps” included. Looking online, they come in different gauges. What is the proper gauge I’d need to connect into the backup lights?

[@Johnny747CB]

Get the 3/4 inch they work great.you can get them at Golden Coral or shoneys.dont cost much.

[@panthers21546]

Bought this the other day and having trouble installing on my 2016 GMC Sierra. I guess I don't have the towing package so I need a special adapter, but I have no idea where I'd plug in an adapter. Any advice?

[@Realtruck]

panthers21546 if you don't have the towing package there is what is called a wiring "t" that you can get. If you look under the back of your truck you should see a connector in the wiring harness on the left side by the frame. It will have wiring running to both sides of your truck for the taillights. Unplug it then install the T connecting each of the sides you unplugged back to the T. All done. If you have any other questions about this or would like more info on how to do this or any of the 500000 plus accessories we sell and would like to speak to a person directly feel free to contact our knowledgeable Customer Service folks at 877-216-5446

[@bradenwright9875]

Is that a 60 inch bar?

[@antoncarroll623]

Where did you get the wire splice connector

[@Realtruck]

Hey Anton! You can find red splice connectors at any local auto parts store. Hope that helps.

[@dannyrodriguez645]

Is this cambatibel with the 2019 f150

[@Realtruck]

Yes it is! You can find it here, realtruck.com/p/putco-blade-led-tailgate-light-bar/v/ford/f150/2019/.

[@DarthVader1033]

Hello Todd, I have had other brand taillight bars and I really like them and they make it so much better for other drivers behind see me so much better be it turning,stopping or parked..I do have a few question for you if you could please answer them for me,I just recently bought a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Double Cab 4X4 LT and I want to buy a Tailgate Light Bar..Here are my question for you...My 1st question is I notice that the turn signals are amber,can you tell me is this legal in all States as all the other brand Tailgate Light Bars that I have own the turn signals where red,Now I live in New York State and my understanding with the law here the rear lights on any car/truck for turning,stopping or parked the rear lights must be red in color..the only place that I know that amber lights can be used is in front or side..Now with the Putco Blade Tailgate Light Bar would this be allowed to be used in New York State or my neighboring States like Vermont or Canada? My 2nd question is about installing the light bar do you know would it be ok to use 3M Velcro double sided tape in stead of using the 3M tape that comes with the light bar? I am asking because if I wanted to say replace the light bar if it would stop working or if I was to upgrade my truck I could just easily remove the light bar and put it on to a new truck..My 3rd question is do you know if the wiring color is the same for all trucks? Thanks for any help you can give me..

[@Realtruck]

Clarence Smith yes you can use Velcro to attach it. Yes it is legal because lots of vehicles out there actually have amber turn signals in the rear. For example here is a tail light from a 96 Explorer. www.go-parts.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/300x220/040ec09b1e35df139433887a97daa66f/F/O/FO2800113.jpg So not sure how a state can make a law against an OE part. The best thing to do, however, is check with your local state DOT for legality before installing any aftermarket product. If you have any other questions about this or would like more info on this item or any of the other 500000 plus accessories we sell and would like to speak to a person directly feel free to contact our knowledgeable Customer Service folks at 877-216-5446

[@DarthVader1033]

I really appreciate you getting back to me,I will surely contact the DOT to make sure that I will be able to use these where I live,

[@scout0209]

I live in a place where it's extremely hot most of the year (120+). What would you recommend for attaching this light bar? I feel like the 3m adhesive will melt and fail.

[@Realtruck]

3m tape has a storage temp threshold of about 95 degrees. As far as once it's installed - we'd recommend you reach out to PutCo directly or a local auto body shop to be able to answer that. It's possible that it's automobile grade and could be fine in higher temperatures.

[@pennytowner728]

SE Texas here, there are 3 different 3 M tapes, you specifically require 3M, Outdoor, Heavy Duty and yes it will hold. You may want to use more than a few tabs though. Depending on your application, hot glue works as well.

[@soonasty100]

Move to a different state. :)

[@dtail4u]

Why aren't the turn signals red? Thanks

[@Realtruck]

Hey Rich, they are red but it probably has do do with our video editing.

[@jamesm.8392]

never shred any of your factory wiring for any reason

[@franktiboni8610]

Can I still use a trailer and plug it in with this setup...

[@Realtruck]

Hey Frank! Yes, you can.

[@franktiboni8610]

@@Realtruck Thanks, great video

[@kevinstenger4334]

Yes as long as the scotch locks didn’t sever too many of the wire strands. Scotch locks are terrible things to use to add new devices. They sever wire strands on larger gauge wires and often times car manufacturers use very small gauge wire that just gets broken in two. Even if you are able to make a successful tap they often fail later due to corrosion.

[@scottheitmanmarinesurvey3557]

You know if you just told us which color wire on the light bar harness was activated by which switch on the truck life would be so much easier. White wire = neg, green wire = RH turn......ect. Pintarest wiring diagram to the rescue.

[@theredpony631]

Same way for a ram truck?

[@243wayne1]

No. Ram is GARBAGE.

[@asmodeus9944]

My lights just started flashing on it's own and I can't stop it. What causes this problem?

[@Johnny747CB]

Calvin Williamson,it sounds like your lights are in heat!!allow both lights to spend 20 minutes together and they will work perfectly again!!

[@ajack0]

Where is the brake light wire?

[@RAM-KINGOFTRUCKS]

i have a 16 f-150 limited so its fully loaded with bliss and backup camera...which light bar is for my truck.....can you send me the part number ...thanks

[@1justintreharne]

Does your light bar also read as a trailer connected?

[@Realtruck]

Hi Justin! Every install is a little bit different depending on your make and model of vehicle. It should not read trailer connected on your vehicle if installed properly. Thank you!

[@1justintreharne]

RealTruck.com I installed on a 2015 Ford F-150 and followed the instructions step by step, connected all the wires correctly, and double checked. Could it be the scotch clips not keeping a solid connection?

[@Realtruck]

It is very possible. If in doubt I will soldier the connections.

[@geebo47]

They've connected the wrong wires for a truck equipped with the towing package, it must be connected to the actual truck tail lights or the towing system sees it as a trailer. Also there is a special bar for trucks equipped with the lane keeping system

[@mpjas2008]

I followed this video to the letter and my truck sees this as a trailer. Of course now that I have cut the harness things become problematic. Has anyone connected this directly to the lights instead and resolved the trailer detection issues?

[@11Galaxy11]

How do you get your spare tire down?

[@crewzero3586]

The spare tire chuck is in the bumper. Not underneath the tailgate

[@DjSpiderAZ]

Do I guys sell this bar lights

[@Realtruck]

We do! You can find them here: realtruck.com/c/lighting/led-tailgate-light-bars/.

[@johnrusselljr3900]

What if I don't have all those color wires..I definitely don't have a trailer rig set up Great video though

[@randybeard6040]

I've had 3 of these rear light bars and none of them will last over 2 years..

[@243wayne1]

Shhhhhh....

[@armstrong1176]

I have a light bar with blue, yellow, green and black wires connected to the plug and the red wire by itself. Can you please help me out as to where the blue, black, green and red wire gets connected to the hitch connector of the same truck,( F150) ?? Thank you and waiting for a reply.

[@galactusgalactus4815]

OMG dude I'm snoring a little faster pls!!!!

[@shoebert31]

if only there were a way to make it go faster

[@ronf6916]

Todd are you using a 60 or 48 inch led bar ?

[@dannyrodriguez645]

So technically all you doin is getting all the power from the left right revers ect

[@dansherwood1043]

As I move forward with my install I see he forgot to mention that it's much easier to drop the spare and move it out of the way to unplug the backup camera and on my 18 gmc while using a small flat screwdriver to unplug the camera it's broken the red tab that has to come out to get it unplugged. Just some "small" details so far...😡

[@mattchumoore4214]

Well.... he's not doing it on a gmc

[@LEOretired]

that design is just wayyyyyy tooo complicated

[@Realtruck]

joeleiter it's actually a lot simpler than it looks. The hardest part is taking the tailgate off and on. If you have any other questions about this or would like more info on this item or any of the other 500000 plus accessories we sell and would like to speak to a person directly feel free to contact our knowledgeable Customer Service folks at 877-216-5446

[@Johnny747CB]

@@Realtruck ,I'm just gonna duct tape a flashlight under the tailgate and turn it on when I'm cruising at night.

[@pennytowner728]

You can not tap into the trailer light harness on a newer truck as your truck will read that you have a trailer in tow! To wire these correctly you must tap into your trucks main system.

[@261Pro]

I've done one light bar on a F150 2015 and back up camera was disabled after all was wired in.. can you give an example of correct way to go about the wiring? THANK YOU

[@ALEXANDERHERNANDEZ1982]

I have a question, my friend. This LED Light is Legal?? because a police give me a ticket for this light on my Toyota Highlander 2015. I live in New York.

[@steve5912]

Legal

[@sojo1660]

That's your fault. You live in New York. Everything is illegal... Lol.

[@Balt9mm]

Those T taps are garbage connections

[@marks5436]

Total rookie move using T-Tap connectors. Lost all credibility after seeing that. Do it once, do it right and solder the wires and then heat shrink. Protect your investments.....truck and lightbar. No easy shortcuts.

[@singhbhullar8592]

Great. Thanks for explaining