Let’s Talk About Demco 9523151 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford F 150 ’15 ’18
The Demco 9523151 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford F 150 ’15 ’18 offers a streamlined solution for adding tail lights to your towed Ford F-150. This kit from Demco, a trusted name in towing solutions, promises a direct plug-in electrical hook-up, eliminating the need for complex and often error-prone splicing. It is designed specifically for 2015 to 2018 Ford F-150 models, ensuring a tailored fit and easier installation.
I needed a reliable and safe way to tow my F-150 behind my RV without compromising the visibility of my towed vehicle, particularly its brake and signal lights. After a near miss on a recent road trip, where fading light made my towed vehicle almost invisible, I knew I needed a better solution than the temporary magnetic lights I was using. I was searching for a solution that integrated seamlessly with my truck’s existing electrical system, guaranteeing reliability and ease of use.
Upon unboxing the Demco kit, I was immediately impressed by the apparent quality of the wiring harness and connectors. The weight felt appropriate, suggesting durable materials, and the molded connectors looked robust and well-sealed against the elements. The inclusion of zip ties and a mounting bracket was a welcome touch, indicating that Demco had considered the entire installation process.
I considered a universal wiring kit that required splicing, as well as another brand-specific kit that was slightly cheaper. I chose the Demco 9523151 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford F 150 ’15 ’18 because of Demco’s reputation for quality and the promise of a truly plug-and-play installation. The prospect of avoiding wire splicing was a major selling point.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While the kit looked well-made, I was slightly skeptical about the “no splicing required” claim, having dealt with similar products in the past that fell short of that promise. However, I was excited to try it out and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Demco 9523151 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford F 150 ’15 ’18 to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Demco 9523151 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford F 150 ’15 ’18 in my driveway, preparing my F-150 for an upcoming cross-country RV trip. The installation was mostly straightforward, as advertised, although some cutting was indeed required as warned. The plug-and-play connectors mated perfectly with the factory wiring harness, saving a significant amount of time and potential errors.
During a pre-trip shakedown run, I encountered heavy rain. The Demco kit performed flawlessly, with no issues related to moisture or connection integrity. All lights on the towed vehicle functioned correctly, mirroring the signals from the RV.
The initial setup took approximately 1.5 hours. This was largely due to finding the correct location for the 4-flat bracket and ensuring the wiring was neatly secured and protected from potential damage. The instructions were clear, and the process was manageable even for someone with moderate mechanical skills.
The only minor issue I encountered was the length of the 4-flat extension. It was just barely long enough to reach the RV’s connector, requiring careful routing of the wiring. I would have preferred an extra foot or two for more flexibility.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months and over 6,000 miles of towing, the Demco 9523151 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford F 150 ’15 ’18 continues to perform reliably. There are no signs of wear and tear on the wiring harness or connectors. This speaks to the quality of the materials used.
I have inspected the connections regularly and applied dielectric grease as recommended to prevent corrosion. The wiring remains secure and well-protected, thanks to the included zip ties. This simple maintenance routine has ensured continued trouble-free operation.
Previously, I used magnetic tow lights, which were prone to falling off and had unreliable connections. The Demco kit is a significant improvement in both safety and convenience. It provides a secure and dependable lighting solution, giving me peace of mind on long trips.
Breaking Down the Features of Demco 9523151 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford F 150 ’15 ’18
Specifications
The Demco 9523151 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford F 150 ’15 ’18 is designed for 2015-2018 Ford F-150 models. It includes:
- (1) Wiring harness with 4-flat connector: Provides a standard connection for towing lights.
- (1) 48 inch 4-flat extension: Extends the reach to the towing vehicle’s connector.
- (20) 15″ cable zip ties: Secures the wiring harness to the towed vehicle.
- (1) 4-flat bracket: Provides a mounting point for the 4-flat connector.
- (3) #8 self-tapping ground screws: Ensures a solid ground connection.
These specifications are essential for a reliable and safe towing setup. The 4-flat connector is an industry standard, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of towing vehicles and trailers. The 48-inch extension provides adequate length for most towing configurations.
Performance & Functionality
The Demco 9523151 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford F 150 ’15 ’18 performs its job exceptionally well, providing a reliable and consistent connection for towing lights. The lights on the towed vehicle accurately mirror the signals from the towing vehicle, ensuring maximum visibility and safety. The ease of installation and secure connections are significant strengths.
The only minor weakness is the marginal length of the 4-flat extension, as previously mentioned. While it works, a slightly longer extension would provide more flexibility in routing the wiring. Overall, the kit meets and exceeds my expectations for a towed vehicle wiring solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The Demco 9523151 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford F 150 ’15 ’18 features a robust and well-thought-out design. The materials used are durable and weather-resistant. The connectors are molded for a secure and watertight fit.
The kit is user-friendly, with clear instructions and straightforward installation. While some cutting is required, the overall process is simple, even for those with limited mechanical experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The Demco 9523151 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford F 150 ’15 ’18 is built to last, with high-quality materials and robust construction. The wiring harness is protected by a durable outer sheath. The connectors are designed to withstand the elements.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional inspection and application of dielectric grease to the terminals. With proper care, the kit should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Demco 9523151 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford F 150 ’15 ’18 comes with everything needed for a basic installation. No additional accessories are required. While there are no specific customization options, the standard 4-flat connector allows for easy connection to various towing lights and accessories.
The kit is compatible with any standard 4-flat connector system. This makes it versatile and adaptable to different towing setups.
Pros and Cons of Demco 9523151 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford F 150 ’15 ’18
Pros
- Easy Installation: Plugs directly into the F-150’s wiring harness, minimizing splicing and reducing installation time.
- Reliable Performance: Provides a consistent and dependable connection for towing lights, ensuring safety and visibility.
- Durable Construction: Made with high-quality materials that withstand the elements and resist wear and tear.
- Comprehensive Kit: Includes all necessary components for installation, such as zip ties and a mounting bracket.
- Vehicle Specific: Designed specifically for 2015-2018 Ford F-150 models, guaranteeing a proper fit.
Cons
- Extension Cord Length: The 48-inch extension cord may be slightly short for some towing configurations.
- Some Cutting Required: Despite the “no splicing” claim, some cutting of the vehicle’s wiring is still required.
Who Should Buy Demco 9523151 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford F 150 ’15 ’18?
This kit is perfect for RV owners who tow a 2015-2018 Ford F-150. This also applies to anyone needing a reliable and easy-to-install wiring solution for their towed vehicle. It also works for individuals who value safety and want a dependable lighting system.
This product might not be ideal for those uncomfortable with basic wiring tasks. Those seeking a completely splice-free solution may need to explore other options (though they may sacrifice reliability).
A must-have is dielectric grease to protect the connections from corrosion. Consider purchasing extra zip ties for added security.
Conclusion on Demco 9523151 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford F 150 ’15 ’18
The Demco 9523151 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford F 150 ’15 ’18 is a reliable and convenient solution for adding towing lights to your Ford F-150. While not entirely splice-free, the direct plug-in design simplifies installation and minimizes the risk of errors.
The price of $129.99 is justified by the quality of the components, ease of installation, and reliable performance. It represents a good value compared to universal kits that require extensive splicing and may not provide the same level of security and dependability.
I would definitely recommend the Demco 9523151 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford F 150 ’15 ’18 to anyone looking for a straightforward and effective way to wire their towed F-150. Upgrade your towing experience today and ensure your safety on the road!