Power Options for Utility Lighting on Utility Trailer
Question:
I have a 10 foot utility trailer with a 4 pin flat connector and I would like to add some LED utility lights to use while setting up camp, packing, etc. Do I need to run a wire from the fuse block or is there an easier way?
asked by: Mark M
Expert Reply:
There are a few different ways that you can get power to the LED utility lights on your trailer. The first would be to have a battery directly on your trailer that you could draw power from. This would be the easiest way to get power to your lights. To charge the battery you would need to use a charger like part # CTEK56353 when you have access to a standard wall outlet.
One of the perks to using this setup is that you can disconnect your tow vehicle and still use the lights when you need to.
To draw power from the battery in your tow vehicle you would need to make sure that your tow vehicle has a fully functioning 7-Way and then you would install a 7-Way like the etrailer # HS381-9000 on your trailer side. This comes with a junction box that makes connecting everything much easier and more organized. Simply run the needed wiring from the 12V power terminal to your lights and you are good to go. The only downside to this setup is that you have to have your tow vehicle connected when you want to use the lights.
For the best of both worlds install a 7-Way on your trailer as well as a battery. This will allow your tow vehicle to trickle charge the trailer battery while still giving you the option to disconnect your tow vehicle if needed. You would still need the charger though to get your battery to full charge. I do recommend installing a switch like part # PK34308 between your power source and your lights so that you can control when they are on or off without having to make any disconnections.
If you don't already have lights picked out I recommend the Opti-Brite # ILL70CCSBAWN which actually comes with a built-in switch so you don't have to worry about that.
Products Referenced in This Question
Wiring Kit for Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuators
- Accessories and Parts
- Brake Actuator
- Disc Brakes
- Hydraulic Drum Brakes
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- Hydrastar
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Opti-Brite RV Interior Strip Light w/ Switch - Awning Mount - White LEDs - Polished Chrome Housing
- LED Strip Lights
- Rigid Light
- Interior Light
- Basements
- Garages
- RV
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Pollak Universal-Design Rocker Switch - SPST - On-Off - 12 Volt - 20 Amp - Black
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Product Page this Question was Asked From
CTEK MULTI US 7002 12-Volt Universal Battery Charger w/ Pulse Maintenance and Backup Power
- Battery Charger
- Battery Charger
- Car/Truck/SUV
- Motorcycle
- Trailer
- Lawn Mower
- Jet Ski
- 150 Ah
- Charges/Maintains
- 12V
- Wall Outlet to Vehicle Battery
- CTEK Power Inc
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