
The legal requirements for trailer lights can be grouped into two classes: trailers less than 80" wide, and those that are more than 80" wide. Protruding light covers that attract hard objects such as fences, high curbs or lampposts while backing up. Getting covered and encrusted with road grime, which works its corrosive mischief if it gets into the connections.Įnduring hours of damaging highway vibration that can weaken and break incandescent bulb filaments and loosen lens seals.Ī drop in voltage, caused by high current draw from several lights, from the towing vehicle all the way to the taillights of the trailer. Corrosion is especially severe in saltwater. Submerging the lights cause short circuits, corrosion of the connections and sockets, burned out filaments and cracks in plastic lenses. Suffering thermal shock when warm or hot lights are suddenly submerged in cold water. Trailer lights get the stuffing beat out of them on a regular basis due to: This makes mounting lights and wiring them substantially easier. Multi-function lights may combine as many as seven functions into one compact fixture, including both lighting functions and reflectors. Trailer wiring consists of a plug connected to the tow vehicle’s lighting circuitry, a matching connector on the trailer, a wiring harness that runs the length of the trailer frame and a variety of stop, tail, turn signal and side marker lights around the trailer’s perimeter.

Consider them essential boating safety gear for being on the road. Don’t skimp on the quality of trailer lights. In darkness and poor visibility, a functioning set of trailer lights is your best insurance against collision (especially rear-enders) and severe damage to your boat. More importantly, lights are critical for safety, letting other drivers know where your trailer is and what your intentions are.

Trailer lighting keeps your trailer legal with your state’s Motor Vehicle department.
