How To Replace Trailer Wiring and Lights
Items
Materials
- Crimp Connectors
- Cable Ties
- Electrical Tape
- New Lights and/or Wiring
- Heat Shrink
Tools
- Basic Mechanic's Tools
- Wire Strippers
- Terminal Crimper
- Heat Gun
Steps
Connect Trailer
Connect your trailer to the tow vehicle, providing a stable workspace.
Run New Wiring
Run the 6 or 7 core trailer harness down one side of the trailer - through the chassis rail on the underside of the trailer, or attached the wires to the trailer frame using cable ties.
Trim off unnecessary excess from the end.
Strip Insulation
Strip 1cm of insulation from all wires
Mount New Trailer Lights
Remove the two lights from the trailer light kit.
Mount one light to either side of the trailer in the same location as the old lights, taking note of the requirement for the numberplate light. One light in the kit will typically contain a clear plastic section on one side for this purpose.
Each light will have bolts fitted or spare holes allowing for fitment. Slide the bolts or screws through the holes in the trailer. Secure the lights.
Connect Wiring
Connect the wires from the lights to the new wiring.
Before connecting each wire slide an appropriately sized piece of heat shrink over each wire.
Connect each colour wire on a light to the corresponding wire of the same colour on the trailer wiring.
Slide the heat shrink over the join and apply heat to seal.
Repeat for second light.
Test
Connect the trailer plug to the socket on the tow vehicle and test the lights.
Once you are happy with the end result, seal all connections with electrical tape to keep moisture and dirt from entering.
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