What does an F cell need to before it can transfer genes to an F- cell?

Question

Thanks!

Answer 1

an F pilus and sometimes an F plasmid.  

Answer 2

The F+ cell will need to express the genes for DNA transfer contained on the F plasmid, which among other things, as stated by the other two answerers, will produce pili on the surface of the cell.

In order to transfer genes other than the genes contained on the F plasmid, the F plasmid needs to be incorporated into the E. coli chromosome, creating an Hfr (high frequency of recombination) strain which will transfer the F plasmid and chromosomal genes to the F- recipient cell.

Answer 3

It needs to make a structure called a "s*x pilus" and the s*x pilus needs to contact the F- cell.