How to Run a Reverse Lamp Circuit on a Travel Trailer
Question:
I would like to replace my current trailer tail lights with L.E.D. Current lights do not have back up feature. Could I replace with units that do without a wiring nightmare? Thank you
asked by: Bill M
Expert Reply:
Well, that will depend on what your definition of nightmare is.
Since you're speaking of a travel trailer, I'll assume the trailer uses a 7-way trailer connector.
The first thing you'll want to do is to make sure the reverse lamp circuit is active on the car's trailer connector. Use a circuit tester like # PTW2993 and test the center pin on the connector as the vehicle is shifted into reverse. The pin should power up. Then, you'll need to see if the 7-way on the trailer is accessible so you can add a wire onto the center pin. If it's not, you'll need a molded plug like # H20043 for a 4 foot, # H20044 for a 6 foot, # H20046 for an 8 foot or # HM20048 for an 11 foot length. Be aware that these plug/pigtails use a different wire color code than what's usually found, so be sure to consult the color code information on the product description page.
The cleanest way to to this installation would be to run the cable into a junction box like # 38656. In the box you can easily and neatly make all your connections to the various circuits on the trailer. Since your trailer doesn't already have reverse lamps, you'll want to run a circuit from the junction box to the closest taillight then run a jumper across to the other taillight.
I've linked you to a video showing the junction box being installed, as well as to a product description video for the # 47-84-008 taillight you referenced.
Products Referenced in This Question
7-Way Molded Trailer Wire Connector, 4' Long
- Trailer Wiring
- Trailer Connectors
- Trailer End Connector
- 0 - 5 Feet Long
- Plug and Lead
- 7 Round - Blade
- Hopkins
more information >
7-Way Molded Trailer Wire Connector, 6' Long
- Trailer Wiring
- Trailer Connectors
- Trailer End Connector
- 6 - 10 Feet Long
- Plug and Lead
- 7 Round - Blade
- Hopkins
more information >
Hopkins 7-Way RV Style Connector with Molded Cable - Trailer End - 8' Long - RV Standard
- Trailer Wiring
- Trailer Connectors
- Trailer End Connector
- 6 - 10 Feet Long
- Plug and Lead
- 7 Round - Blade
- Hopkins
more information >
Hopkins 7-Way Molded Trailer Wire Connector - 11' Long
- Trailer Wiring
- Trailer Connectors
- Trailer End Connector
- 11 - 20 Feet Long
- Plug and Lead
- 7 Round - Blade
- Hopkins
more information >
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