Can Optronics 55-Watt Halogen Light # QH16CTS Be Wired into Reverse Lights of 2013 Ford F-150

Question:

2013 F-150 Crew cab Can I tap into the reverse light wire to make this light work? Or will I encounter wiring problems? Or do I need to wire a resistor in line?

asked by: L.L. W

Helpful Expert Reply:

It is possible to wire an auxiliary light such as the Optronics 55-Watt Halogen Light # QH16CTS into the reverse light circuit of a vehicle. In order to do so the circuit must have the current capacity for both the OEM bulbs and the additional light.

I researched in the online manual for your 2013 F-150 the bulbs used and the fuse rating for the reverse light circuit. The truck uses two 921 bulbs, each rated to draw 1.3 amps. The two bulbs together will draw 2.6 amps. This circuit is protected with a 15-amp fuse according to the online manual.

The Optronics 55-Watt Halogen Area Utility Light will draw about 4.3 amps at 12.8 volts. If we add the 2.6-amp draw of the OEM lights to this 4.3 amps we have a total current demand of approximately 6.9 amps, which is well within the reverse circuit's fuse rating of 15-amps. Still, to be safe I suggest using a separate fuse for the hot feed to the halogen lamp; you can use fuse holder # 118151. You do not need a resistor.

Please note that this lamp grounds through its mounting hardware, and it is designed to be mounted on a post or pedestal. That post must provide a conductive path for the ground.

expert reply by: Adam R