Ford Pro Trailer Backup Assist Module - Montana Owners Club

ScottN · 01-10-2022, 02:17 PM

I recently took delivery of a 2022 Ford F350 SRW and a 2022 Montana 3121RL. The truck has Pro Trailer Backup Assist (PTBA) with a sensing module. There is not a large enough flat surface on the outside of the Lippert Road Armor "Trailair" hitch that would allow the use of the mounting straps (large wire ties), or the adhesive-backed bracket (see attached picture). I am looking for suggestions on where to mount the PTBA module. If there is a flat surface inside the hitch, can the module go there?

mlh · 01-10-2022, 02:50 PM

On my 2018 F150 you can’t use it with a fifth wheel hitch. Of course that may have been changed. My truck is three years old.
Lynwood

RipNC · 01-11-2022, 06:24 AM

I think I removed the sticker on the driver side and mounted there. Be back to the rig tomorrow and can shoot a photo for you. I think I stuck on and then screwed it (CRS).

RipNC · 01-11-2022, 03:30 PM

Photo attached (got home to FL from NC with daylight to spare).

bwright · 01-11-2022, 06:14 PM

Mounted in the same place, however, I have found the backup assist difficult to use as it is difficult to assess the sensitivity of the knob. I have ditched it and just backup as I always have. I am sure that others have found it useful.

E Rod · 01-11-2022, 10:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bwright

Mounted in the same place, however, I have found the backup assist difficult to use as it is difficult to assess the sensitivity of the knob. I have ditched it and just backup as I always have. I am sure that others have found it useful.

Likewise, found it rather difficult and inaccurate to use

RipNC · 01-12-2022, 05:28 AM

Actually, though I've set it up on both trucks (F150 for boat trailer), I don't use it either. I've been told it is most useful for backing a long straight line - just engage and don't touch. When I tried it on the boat tailer it steers constantly and looked possessed. All I could thhink about was how many sets of tires I'd go thru...

ScottN · 01-12-2022, 07:54 AM

Thank you for posting the photo; it makes it clear how you mounted the module. After I install the module, I will test the PTBA function.

gary&sherry&yorkies · 01-16-2022, 09:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RipNC

I think I removed the sticker on the driver side and mounted there. Be back to the rig tomorrow and can shoot a photo for you. I think I stuck on and then screwed it (CRS).

I remover sticker, cleaned area with alcohol and it has held without zip ties.

E Rod · 01-16-2022, 10:43 PM

Done the same. Clean area, peel backing and install. Just make sure it's a warm day for proper adhesion

ScottN · 01-27-2022, 03:11 PM

I decided to mount the Pro Trailer Backup Assist (PTBA) module on the inside of the hitch structure (using the included adhesive pad). I used the small wire ties to attach the PTBA cable to the 5th-wheel’s 7-pin cable.

Configuring the PTBA in an open parking lot took only a few minutes. After configuring, I used the parking lot lines to test straight-line backing. It was very precise; I could go 50-60 feet with no deviation. When attempting to back the 5th-wheel into a simulated campsite, I realized I still need a lot of practice :-).

Thanks again for the feedback several of you provided!

dieselguy · 01-27-2022, 06:55 PM

I'm going to put my take onto the playing field here about backup assists and as always, I know some will roll their eyes and some will wish me to just button it. I well know we all have our strong and weak points on certain skills. I also know as each year passes, technology although not perfected in some areas, continues to advance. Practice on backing a rig up perhaps by placing ones hand on the bottom of the steering wheel instead of the top ... or whatever other aid will help. For most, you'll become proficient. Don't rely on a computer as a crutch for lack of ability. There are a few skills in RVing that are a must to be safe for you and others ... not all can master them.

JR & Carol · 07-04-2022, 09:17 AM

I have a 2020 Ford f350 with Pro Backup Assist. It works great with my flat bed trailer and my boat but is unable to find my fifth wheel trailer. The truck came with this option and you are supposed to just add the sensor and plug it in. I have taken it to the Ford dealer multiple times and they replaced the sensor and checked the wiring and are unable to figure out a fix. Any suggestions?

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