Using Hopkins Tail Light Isolation Diode Kit, Part # 38955, In 2013 Honda Fit Being Flat-Towed by RV
Question:
I have a Pheonix USA RV on a Ford E450 with brake light and turn light in same bulb led. I have ordered #38955 wiring kit form my 2013 Honda Fit . I have a Ready Brake which applies the brake pedal on the Fit. When the brake is applied in the RV three things happen. 1 Brake lights on the RV come on, as the pedal is applied. 2 Brake lights on the Fit should come on, as a signal from the RV. 3 Brake lights on the Fit get a signal from the pedal as the surge applies to brake pedal. The wiring kit #38955 looks simple to use, but now I have questions. Do the diodes protect the wiring systems in the Fit and the RV? Will there be feed back from the Fits brake system? Do I need to add any thing to the system? Thanks
asked by: George N
Expert Reply:
The Hopkins Tail Light Isolation Diode Kit, Part # 38955, prevents braking signals generated in your towed Honda Fit from feeding back into your RV lighting system when you are using a supplementary braking system such as the Ready Brake. Please refer to the linked installation video showing how the diode kit installs in a 2010 Honda Fit.
You indicate that your RV has a combined lighting system - brake and turn lights carried on the same wire. You may be able to use just this diode kit in your Honda Fit, with the Fit brake lights functioning as both brake and turn signal lights.
To determine if a brake light relay is needed to properly wire your vehicle to be towed, answer the following questions.
Are you using a supplemental braking system that depresses the brake pedal in your towed car.
No - You do not need a brake light relay.
Yes - You may need a brake light relay. Continue on to the next question.
Do the brake lights on your towed car illuminate while the engine is off.
No - You do not need a brake light relay.
Yes - You may need a brake light relay. Continue on to the next question.
Do your towed cars brake lights act as both the brake signals and the turn signals.
No - You may need a brake light relay. Continue on to the next question.
Yes - Your towed car has a combined lighting system. You will need a brake light relay to ensure proper activation of its signal lights.
Does your towed car have separate brake lights and turn signals.
No - Your towed car has a combined lighting system. You will need a brake light relay.
Yes - Your towed car has a separate lighting system. You may need a brake light relay. Continue on to the next question.
Are you wiring your vehicle with a six-diode kit or a TowDaddy custom wiring harness.
No - You will need a brake light relay to ensure proper activation of your towed cars signal lights.
Yes - You do not need a brake light relay.
If you do need a relay, you can use Roadmaster # RM-88400; please see video link included.
Products Referenced in This Question
Roadmaster Brake-Lite Relay Kit for Towed Vehicles
- Tow Bar Braking Systems
- Brake Light Relay
- Roadmaster
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Tail Light Isolating Diode System with Wiring Harness
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Splices into Vehicle Wiring
- Diode Kit
- Universal
- Tail Light Mount
- Hopkins
more information >
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