12v Hitch Wiring Question

New to this site and Tundras. Have posted only a couple of times

so far. I have a 2017 SR5 DC TRD Offroad MGM and am in the process

of a few minor mods. The current mod is putting a "T" connector on

the hitch receptacle in order to get 12v into the bed for bed

lights, a 12v power outlet and USB charging ports. Bed has a hard

tonneau. I was expecting the hitch receptacle to have 12v full

time (last truck was a GMC and the line was always hot) but

discovered 12v is available only when the ignition is in the "Run"

position. Same as the cab ports. I could run a fused line direct

from the battery to the hitch but I was wondering if anyone here

has accomplished this using the factory line and moving it's

source to a hot terminal. The wiring diagram I have only shows the

backup light connection to the hitch port.

 

Hmmm, I haven't done this but I have a question for ya. Do you need the power to come from the trailer wiring or can you look into running new wires in loom with an in line fuse from the battery, neatly tucked and zip tied along the frame, and up into the bed?

Gents would it be OK to run wires like that?

 

I have added a new line to a loom before when putting in a brake controller(on the GMC). I would have no problem doing this with this project but it is time consuming and of course with the uttering of profanity. Was hoping to make use of the factory line but without a wiring diagram or hints from a previous trail blazer I wouldn't want to tackle it. Most likely I will have to run a separate line and fuse. I hate to cut the factory line at the hitch.... hence the use of the "T" connector.

This mod does not affect any trailer wiring. I pull a boat and have a utility trailer but both are standard wired. No electric brakes on either. Only need the 12v for the lights and outlets to be installed in the bed.