Are Load Resistors Required when Adding LED Lights to a Trailer
Question:
How hot do the load resistors get? Similar to the heat of an incandescent bulb? If I wrapped the resistor with some type of insulation, how would it affect the performance? I read that the load of the resistor is about 2 amps. Should one resistor be installed in close proximity to each blinker? I noticed you sell ceramic resistors. Would this eliminate the possible heat build up, or simply last longer? I have several vehicles and trailers I would upgrade to leds. I really like the brightness, very distinct on-off and durabilityespecially on my trailers. Thank you for your time. When I find a company that can help like this as well as the parts, I stick with them.
asked by: Kendall S
Helpful Expert Reply:
You may not even need load resistors to switch to LED lights. The best thing to do is to try the lights without load resistors first. No need to purchase something you may not need until you know need it.
Load resistors such as # DI34ZR dissipate heat through the body of the resistor. Wrapping them with insulation would prevent them from dissipating heat properly. You could put them in a battery or junction box though.
Load resistors increase the amperage draw on a circuit. If you are experiencing hyperflash on the turn signals or the LED lights do not have enough draw to activate a load resistor will help. You would need one per affected circuit. I have linked the instructions for you to view.
Jeff F.
7/19/2020
We hook up to tow car and brake lights and blinkers work but our running lights turn on and immediately go off. What could be causing this? We used same trailer harness and tried behind other vehicles and it worked perfect!
Products Referenced in This Question
Load Resistor Kit for LED Turn Signals - 50 Watts - 6 Ohm - Qty 2
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Lights
- Load-Resistor Kit
- Diamond
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Sealed, 4" Round, LED Trailer Stop/Turn/Tail Light, 3-Function, 10 Diode - Red w/ Clear Lens
- Trailer Lights
- Tail Lights
- Stop/Turn/Tail
- Round
- Recessed Mount
- Submersible Lights
- LED Light
- 4 Inch Diameter
- Red
- Optronics
more information >
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Kevin G.
7/16/2020
I have a 2020 Alaskan Camper (truck camper). Also a 2020 GMC Sierra 3/4 ton gasser. My camper only has running lights which are LED. For some reason the do not work. When I plug in my utility trailer all the lights work. Do I need to add a resistor to my camper? Thanks