Adding 12V and USB power ports to the bed - installed photo

[Jrplaw]

So, I was a bit torn as to whether to add the 12v panel inside the cubbie like some users have or at the 12v window where you can plug in the pigtail closer to the edge of the truck bed. I understand it is more susceptible to the elements and may interfere if I were to load the truck with stuff, but I think it's more accessible to have it closer to the edge of the truck bed instead of opening the cubbie and plugging things in.

I looked at different options and rather than drilling a hole in the existing panel created, I decided to have something 3d printed with a hole pre-fashioned (my first ever 3d printing purchase). I went to different vendors and the rates varied from $20 plus shipping to $275 from someone local. I found a website called Xometry and they charged me just under $8 with free shipping. Hopefully it turns out okay. Otherwise, I'll just drill a hole in the existing plastic insert.

Since there's only room for one 12v plug, should I get an accessory plug or a USB plug? I'm leaning towards the 12v plug, but wanted to see everyone's thoughts.


Filename: Ford Maverick Flexbed bed outlet cover.stl
Process: 3D Printing
Technology: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
Material: ABS or ASA, Next Available, Color: Next Available, Infill: UltraLight
Finish: Standard
Threads and Tapped Holes: Threads and Tapped Holes, None
Inspection: Standard Inspection

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[Automate]

Since there's only room for one 12v plug, should I get an accessory plug or a USB plug? I'm leaning towards the 12v plug, but wanted to see everyone's thoughts.

I would go with 12v plug. I always have a 12V/lighter to USB adapter in my truck so I could always use it if I need USB power.

Let us know how the 3D printed part comes out. Don't know how they make money at that price.

 

[Jrplaw]

I would go with 12v plug. I always have a 12V/lighter to USB adapter in my truck so I could always use it if I need USB power.

Let us know how the 3D printed part comes out. Don't know how they make money at that price.

It's in progress of being printed. Estimated ship date is November 1. This is where I went to get it printed. https://blue.mbsy.co/6tBLgF

 

[Jrplaw]

I would go with 12v plug. I always have a 12V/lighter to USB adapter in my truck so I could always use it if I need USB power.

Let us know how the 3D printed part comes out. Don't know how they make money at that price.

The 3d part finally came in. Looked great, and dimensions were correct, but the top part snapped off. I would not recommend 3d printing and will just drill a hole in the plastic piece that came with the truck.

 

[Jrplaw]

The 3d part finally came in. Looked great, and dimensions were correct, but the top part snapped off. I would not recommend 3d printing and will just drill a hole in the plastic piece that came with the truck.

In an effort to salvage the 3d printed piece, I decided maybe I could just superglue segments of a zip tie that is flexible to replace the part the snapped off. After I glued it on and was ready to push the plastic cover, I noticed the safety washer for the outlet I bought was preventing it from going through the truck bed. I pushed it in and it just snapped into place. While its going to be difficult to remove, at least it'll stay in place and won't pop out

 

[kahunabob]

I am trying to get a straight forward answer to this question as well. I have read that the truck bed 12V ports are live for only some amount of time after the truck is turned off, I haveread they are only live while the truck is running, and I have read that they are hot all the time. I am not sure which is correct.

I have a Eccoboost XLT with the Lux package coming but I want to put some switched LED light strips in the bed and DC plug/USB ports in the cubby for electronics charging.

Did anyone come up with the amount of time the bed ports are live? Mine have been live for over 30 minutes since i turned off the truck. Thanks!

 

[Barracuda340]

Did anyone come up with the amount of time the bed ports are live? Mine have been live for over 30 minutes since i turned off the truck. Thanks!

Mine stayed live for about 2 hours.

 

[kahunabob]

Mine stayed live for about 2 hours.

Thanks! I am over 1 hour now...I keep running out to the truck every 15 minutes or so...

Have a great new year!

 

[PCK]

Mine stayed live for about 2 hours.

Can be set in Forscan.

 

[Dad]

Can be set in Forscan.

That's good to know. Thank you!

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