Are Additional Relays Required to Install Pop & Lock PAL8340 on 2003 Dodge Ram

Published 11/22/2019

Question:

You mention installing a relay which is not included with the Pop and Lock kit nor is there any mention of a relay being installed in the written instructions. Can you please clarify if a powered relay is required to be installed with the PL8340 mechanism?

asked by: Mike C

Expert Reply:

The relays/relay harness mentioned in the video you referenced should already be present in your 2003 Dodge Ram Pickup, assuming that's what you have. You do not need to purchase any relays separately in order to install the # PAL8340.

As outlined in the installation instructions, after being routed to the front of the vehicle, the long wiring harness included with the Pop & Lock Tailgate Lock is connected to the factory wiring harness leading to the driver's side door. The length of this harness also runs under the cab, up the firewall and under the hood. The instructions don't specify where along the length of the factory harness to make the connections. You can splice the Pop & Lock long wiring harness anywhere along the factory harness.

In the linked video, our installer is just pointing out one of the suitable locations since the relay harness in that particular 2003 Ram is likely attached to the same factory harness that later goes into the driver's side door. This is the only reason it's mentioned. That being said, the instructions state you must test the wires to confirm their function.

The # PAL8340 is confirmed to fit the following vehicles:

2002 - 2002 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 - excluding Quad Cab with 8 Foot Bed
2009 - 2009 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 and 3500 - excluding Quad Cab with 8 Foot Bed
2003 - 2008 Dodge Ram Pickup excluding Quad Cab with 8 Foot Bed

If there is something that's still unclear, please let me know.