Update. I removed the tailgate wire harness (with camera and latch), took less than 30 minutes to do, super easy. Thank you Mopar! I plugged everything back into the truck. Wrapped the harness up in a waterproof drybag and zip-tied it to the rear frame. Backup sensors are now working again. I might try to find a way to re-mount the camera, but for now, happy with functioning sensors.
But here the thing....
Why make a removable tailgate that once removed, won't allow the rear bumper sensors to function properly? It just doesn't make sense. If someone has come up with a different solution I would love to hear it.
I would say that from the manufacturer's point of view, it's really about having more features than another truck, not about how functional and flexible these features are to custom modifications.
Congrats on finding a good solution and thanks for sharing.
If you get bored or adventurous, at a future date, you might try constructing something to take the place of the harness, there can't be too much involved. The OEM connectors can be had from numerous locations and sponsoring members here.
If you plan to explore reconnecting the camera, that might be a great opportunity to substitute the tailgate harness section.
Don't forget to share your findings, someone, somewhere will be thrilled.
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