Frustrated new guy

[Whaler27]

I'm surprised the upfitter switches won't fit to the left or right of the steering column. I'm kinda curious myself now to see. I have no need for the switches but I'm willing to bet I can get them below the column. It does suck that they didn't run wires to the front and rear to be picked up later during the install.
I think the snow plow option is pre-wiredView attachment 7912 for a roof mounted light and rear circuit for a salter or light. Can you check your RPO codes to see if you have this?

I dunno? I watched an installation video on an earlier model year and there was room where my truck already has switching. In that case he bought the whole panel and kit from 404 parts. It was a useful video for me, as I saw all the layers of overlapping plastic you have to remove to get to the back of the panel above. On that installation the box, which is pretty big, sits above and between the OBD port and the hood release, I think.

On the kits without the plastic panel there’s a note mentioning the two potential mounting locations I listed above, but only one poor picture of the dash option.

 

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[Whaler27]

This is the picture I was referring to.

I assume that if a more sensible location worked it was have been shown on the 404 parts site?

 

[Whaler27]

I give myself a solid B+ when it comes to simple wiring of accessories and such. When complex relays and multiple switches for the same light are involved I’m more like a C student… I pretty much need to see an idiot-proof diagram. When it comes to cutting into the dash of a beautiful new truck, I rate my confidence pretty low, and my cowardice pretty high.

 

[73Blazer]

This is the picture I was referring to.

I assume that if a more sensible location worked it was have been shown on the 404 parts site?

Yea that is an odd location for the switches. I'm thinking they would reflect off the display as well.
Strange they don't have a set location for them.

 

[dugedug]

Read Tech Bulletin 193C from the gmupfitter site.

 

[Whaler27]

Read Tech Bulletin 193C from the gmupfitter site.

You did’t provide a link, so I’m guessing this (below) is what you’re referencing?

Is this helpful?

If so, should I be able to translate this bulletin into a parts order that will match my plastics and do the job? (This probably seems like a dumb question, and it may be one. I’ve been spoiled by all the other brands that just instll this stuff at the factory, so I don’t have to.)

 

[dugedug]

No, because that is not 193C from the site. Once you get the right one it will tell you everything you need to know.

 

[Whaler27]

No, because that is not 193C from the site. Once you get the right one it will tell you everything you need to know.

Is it a secret, a treasure hunt, an IQ test, or can you provide the link?

(Obviously, I'm failing the IQ test... The link I provided above is what I found when I looked.)

 

[Whaler27]

Found it after all:

GM "Upfitter bulletins"

... except the bulletin indicates that the 2500s are being equipped with the appropriate knee /panels/bolsters. My truck, which is post bulletin, does not have the panel with a switches or a cut-out for them.

 

[dugedug]

Below is the key point from the bulletin for your vehicle in red and all caps, which I posted in your other thread yesterday.
"Install Procedure #3 = AT4 (GFG), AT4X (GA4), Denali (GFW), Denali Ult (GFY) - NOT AVAILABLE UNTIL 2025 MODEL YEAR"

So now you know where and how to get the best source information, what is required (parts, labor, and technical requirements), and approximately when your specific model will have the procedures updated.

 

[pinebaron]

We are resorting to wireless switches instead. There are a few inexpensive options too and very expensive options as well; I'm playing around with the former however may also go for the latter for some functions (lights)

 

[Whaler27]

Below is the key point from the bulletin for your vehicle in red and all caps, which I posted in your other thread yesterday.
"Install Procedure #3 = AT4 (GFG), AT4X (GA4), Denali (GFW), Denali Ult (GFY) - NOT AVAILABLE UNTIL 2025 MODEL YEAR"

So now you know where and how to get the best source information, what is required (parts, labor, and technical requirements), and approximately when your specific model will have the procedures updated.

Copy. Thanks. I hadn't seen the other thread.

While scanning through the other bulletins I saw other references to upfitter switches (and even sunglasses holders) was can be added to various GM vehicles. Seems strange to have to wait for 2025 to get those 1995 conveniences, but at least there's hope on the horizon -- even if it costs another $1,000 to get the parts and have them installed.

On the installation front, my truck had to be held over at the dealership, so I can't report back on the tailgate stereo fix, ventilated seat fix, winch installation, or windshield washer repair. The service writer said they've had a lot of problems with the Kicker tailgate stereo/speakers, so they now have a lengthy checklist that has to be processed in every case. Apparently, they've replaced a bunch of the Kicker systems. I'm hoping the truck doesn't have to stay at the dealership long. (I thought I had more miles on it, but I still haven't gotten to 700 miles yet!)

 

[Whaler27]

We are resorting to wireless switches instead. There are a few inexpensive options too and very expensive options as well; I'm playing around with the former however may also go for the latter for some functions (lights)

I have an SPOD in my Wrangler. It has been a four year project and it had a crazy amount of accessories on it, so the factory upfitter switches weren't enough to manage everything. The SPOD has some great features, and the customer service is fantastic -- as in they answer the phone, speak english, know their products, offer to help with everything, and stand behind everything they sell. Kinda like Sears in 1970. SPOD couldn't be better to work with. The downside is the cost and complexity -- and you'll have a conspicuous thing to mount.

 

[Rambo Crane]

Thanks for the information. I have never heard of this Garmin product. In many ways I think it is better than OEM.

-easily moved to a different vehicle when you sell
-can be controlled from phone so if you are unloading at camp and its getting dark for example
-can be controlled from car play
-no need to go through firewall (except for interior power needs of course)

Is there a 12 volt receptacle anywhere in the truck

@Whaler27
I second the Garmin PowerSwitch option. It's awesome. Mount under your hood per Garmin instructions and run lights, compressors, etc. off of it. Turn on/off w/ App that can be share via CarPlay to screen in truck.

I'm in same boat as you. Owned plenty of Ford's w/ Aux switch options. Unfortunatley, the voltage on their switches is typically too low and requires aftermarket work around.
Regardless, don't loose hope, try the Garmin option.

 

[john151ama]

@Whaler27
I second the Garmin PowerSwitch option. It's awesome. Mount under your hood per Garmin instructions and run lights, compressors, etc. off of it. Turn on/off w/ App that can be share via CarPlay to screen in truck.

I'm in same boat as you. Owned plenty of Ford's w/ Aux switch options. Unfortunatley, the voltage on their switches is typically too low and requires aftermarket work around.
Regardless, don't loose hope, try the Garmin option.

The Garmin looks like a great option. Was just checking that out. I was surprised though on the actual amp rating, only 30 amps per switch, 100 amps total. They advertise use for fridges, compressors etc. even an average Viair air compressor has a 40 amp or higher rating and fuse. So the Garmin would still limit what you can use it for or you could use it as a trigger to control a solenoid to power higher amp accessories.