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2021 F450 w/Pro Trailer Backup assist

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Old Mar 6, 2026 | 07:52 PM
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2021 F450 w/Pro Trailer Backup assist

Just purchased a 2021 F450 Platinum which includes the Pro Trailer Basckup assist. None of the parts that attach to a trailer are present. I tow a 33 foot 5th wheel and have a backup camera and TPMS installed in the RV tires. What do I need to make the backup assist functional?
 
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Old Mar 6, 2026 | 10:06 PM
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Rear view mirrors.
 
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Old Mar 7, 2026 | 07:12 AM
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There is a sensor/module that is mounted to the portion of the hitch on the camper and a cable that plugs into the second port under your brake/light connector. Then you doa trailer setup procedure that the truck walks you through, best done in a parking lot.

I went through that with my gooseneck utility trailer to see how it worked and never really used it again
 
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Old Mar 8, 2026 | 08:11 AM
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Originally Posted by Superdave71
There is a sensor/module that is mounted to the portion of the hitch on the camper and a cable that plugs into the second port under your brake/light connector. Then you doa trailer setup procedure that the truck walks you through, best done in a parking lot.

I went through that with my gooseneck utility trailer to see how it worked and never really used it again
This.

There are stickers for trailer tounges as well.

Bob
 
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Old Mar 8, 2026 | 08:32 AM
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When I saw their performance with the GN, I didn’t bother with the stickers on my TT. I think if you went all the way with the camera package, putting one on the back of a camper, it would be more intuitive and might work well.
 
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Old Mar 8, 2026 | 09:12 AM
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Originally Posted by Superdave71
When I saw their performance with the GN, I didn’t bother with the stickers on my TT. I think if you went all the way with the camera package, putting one on the back of a camper, it would be more intuitive and might work well.
I have never used it. I used to have my class A license so backing isn’t an issue for me. It was more of an add on to the cameras for me.

I thought that it might be useful for my wife who has very limited backing experience. I have no need to learn another way of backing up a trailer.

Bob
 
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Old Mar 8, 2026 | 01:42 PM
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Backing up a truck and trailer with a **** on the dash just doesn't feel right, to me.

Steering wheel and mirrors work best for me.

 
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Old Mar 8, 2026 | 03:20 PM
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Originally Posted by longhaultransport
Backing up a truck and trailer with a **** on the dash just doesn't feel right, to me.

Steering wheel and mirrors work best for me.
Same here.
 
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Old Mar 8, 2026 | 07:41 PM
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I can see where the camera would be nice, I have it but I've never installed it. the backup deal is a joke, if you can't back a trailer up you shouldn't be pulling one forward either.
 
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Old Mar 8, 2026 | 09:06 PM
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Originally Posted by longhaultransport
Backing up a truck and trailer with a **** on the dash just doesn't feel right, to me.

Steering wheel and mirrors work best for me.

Yup, hence my response to the OP.
My ‘22 F350 Platinum has the package- the sensor box & harness still sit in the factory sealed bag.
Gimmick BS for the unskilled.
 
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Old Mar 9, 2026 | 04:09 AM
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Towing Service for Cars: A Smart Backup for Long-Distance Towing

Since your 2021 F-450 has Pro Trailer Backup Assist, you’ll usually need the Ford trailer backup assist sticker (target decal) that mounts on the trailer so the truck’s camera can detect the trailer angle while reversing. You’ll also need to set up the trailer profile in the truck’s system.When towing larger trailers like a 33-ft 5th wheel, it’s always smart to plan for unexpected issues on long trips. Many drivers also keep contacts for a reliable towing service for cars in case a breakdown or roadside problem happens while traveling.
 
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