Putco Freedom Blade Installation Guide

How to Install a Plug and Play Tailgate Light Bar (No Cutting or Splicing)

What Is the Putco Freedom Blade?

The Putco Freedom Blade LED Tailgate Light Bar is a plug and play tailgate light bar designed for trucks that want brighter reverse lighting, improved brake visibility, and modern LED turn signals without complex wiring.

This installation uses a combination of a 7-pin quick connect harness, relay-powered fuse tap system, and grounded wiring to deliver maximum LED output and reliability.

What You’ll Need

Putco Freedom Blade LED Tailgate Light Bar
Blade Quick Connect Harness
Power wire with relay and fuse tap
Cable ties and mounting hardware
At least 90% isopropyl alcohol
Clean towel
Wrench or socket set
Heat gun or lighter

Installation Overview

Mounts between the tailgate and bumper
Uses 3M adhesive and optional bracket spacing system
Connects through factory 7-pin trailer plug
Uses relay-powered fuse tap for maximum brightness
Typical install time is 45 to 90 minutes

Step 1: Prepare the Surface

Clean the mounting area thoroughly using at least 90% isopropyl alcohol
Dry the surface completely before installation
Ensure surface temperature is at least 60°F for proper adhesion
Verify the light bar will not contact the tailgate when opening

Step 2: Install Mounting Brackets (If Needed)

Apply 3M tape to the black plastic brackets
Attach brackets to the back of the light bar
Space evenly across the length of the bar
Use brackets if the truck surface is uneven or obstructed
Position the light bar with the wire exiting toward the driver side

Optional:

Brackets can be bolted to the truck using #10 hardware for permanent mounting

Step 3: Mount the Light Bar

Test fit before removing adhesive backing
Remove tape liner only after confirming position
Press firmly into place across the mounting surface
Apply even pressure to ensure full adhesion

Step 4: Install the Quick Connect Harness

Locate the factory 7-pin trailer plug behind the bumper
Unplug the factory connector
Plug it into the Blade Quick Connect Harness
Connect the harness back into the truck’s 7-pin port
Connect the 4-pin plug to the Freedom Blade driver box
Ensure all connectors are fully seated and sealed

Step 5: Install the Power Wire and Relay System

Mount the relay box near the battery and fuse box
Attach the ground (black wire) to a factory ground or battery negative
Connect the red wire to the battery positive terminal
Install the fuse tap into an ignition-controlled fuse slot
Route the power wire safely along the frame toward the rear of the truck
Secure wiring every 12 to 18 inches using cable ties

Why this matters:

This relay-powered setup delivers maximum LED output
Prevents voltage drop common with trailer-only installs
Ensures consistent brightness and performance

Step 6: Mount the Driver Box

Mount the driver box behind the bumper using bolts or 3M tape
Use multiple mounting points to reduce vibration
Choose a flat, secure surface when possible

Step 7: Connect the System

Connect the power wire to the driver box using the spade terminal
Apply heat shrink over the connection for a waterproof seal
Connect the 4-pin and weatherpack connectors securely
Do not cross-connect mismatched connectors
Bundle and secure excess wiring

Step 8: Configure the Freedom Blade (Optional)

Use the orange tap wire to enter configuration mode
Select your preferred:
- Startup sequence
- Turn signal style (amber or red, scanning or solid)
- Brake style (standard or triple pulse)
Wait 5 seconds to save each setting
Do not turn the truck off during configuration

Step 9: Test All Functions

Turn the vehicle on
Verify all lighting functions:
- Running lights
- Brake lights
- Turn signals
- Reverse lights
- Startup sequence
Use a second person to confirm visibility from the rear

Why This Is a High-Performance Plug and Play System

No wire cutting required
Uses factory 7-pin connections
Includes relay-powered fuse tap system
Designed for maximum brightness and reliability
Fully sealed connections for long-term durability

Common Installation Questions

Do I need to splice any wires?
No. This system uses plug and play connections with a quick connect harness.

Can I install this using only the trailer plug?
Yes, but adding the power wire and relay system provides significantly better brightness and performance.

Why does this use a fuse tap and relay?
This allows the light bar to draw direct battery power while using the fuse as a trigger, improving output and consistency.

How long does installation take?
Most installs take between 45 and 90 minutes depending on routing and mounting.

Will this drain my battery?
No. When connected to an ignition-controlled fuse, the system only powers on when the vehicle is running.

Final Thoughts

The Putco Freedom Blade installation is designed to be straightforward while still delivering professional-grade performance. With its quick connect harness, relay-powered wiring, and configurable lighting modes, it offers one of the most advanced plug and play tailgate light bar setups available.

For truck owners who want maximum visibility, reliable performance, and a clean install without cutting into factory wiring, this system delivers exactly that.