How Do I Wire My Boat Trailer Lights?

Having your own boat is an indulgence like no other. Whether you're a regular at your local marina or just an occasional visitor, there's nothing quite like the sublime pleasure of taking to the open waters. But there is one part of boat ownership that should not be overlooked: wiring up your boat trailer lights. Knowing how to wire your boat trailer lights correctly can save you from a lot of trouble, not to mention potential fines from law enforcement. Beyond that, making sure your boat trailer lights are properly wired is an important safety measure that you owe yourself, your passengers, and any other boaters in the area.

In this article, we'll provide a brief overview of the basics of boat trailer lights wiring and offer more detailed instructions for setting up your lighting system safely and correctly. In addition, we'll discuss the importance of following any applicable local laws, as well as some tips for troubleshooting common issues. Keep reading to learn more about the how to wire your boat trailer lights.

Understanding the Necessity of Trailer Lights

The purpose of boat trailer lights is to increase the visibility of your towed vessel and ensure that your boat is easily visible on the roadway. As such, it's important that you wire your trailer lights correctly, preferably with colored LED lights. Red should be used for the tail lights and yellow is recommended for the running lights, while white can be used for reverse lights (if they're required). Turn signals and brake lights should also have their own designated colors – typically amber and red, respectively. To ensure maximum visibility after dark, it’s highly recommended that you use a combination of lights, such as two or three-way lighting systems.

Applying the Right Wiring Connections

When it comes to wiring your boat trailer lights, start by using the correct gauge of wiring. Smaller boats will require 16-gauge gauge wiring, while larger vessels will need wiring of 14 or 12-gauge. Once you’ve selected the right size of wire, connect the circuit between the tow vehicle's lighting connector/plug and the trailer light wiring harness. This will typically require you to splice the wiring together. From there, connect each wire to the appropriate light fixture (red for tail lights, yellow for running lights, etc.). Finally, make sure that the connector is firmly attached to the trailer hitch and that all of the wires are secured tightly.

Following Local Laws

It's a good idea to check your local laws before wiring your boat trailer lights. Many states and municipalities have specific requirements for boat trailers, such as the type of lights that must be used and how they must be wired. For instance, some areas may require that you install a dot-style lighting system with individual wires connecting each light. Other locations may mandate that only LED lights be used. Additionally, it's important to keep in mind that the laws related to boat trailer lighting may vary between states and even counties, so be sure to familiarize yourself with all applicable regulations before moving forward.

Troubleshooting Lighting Issues

If you run into any issues while wiring your boat trailer lights, don't hesitate to double-check your connections. Make sure that each light fixture is properly secured and that the wires are attached correctly. Additionally, make sure that the trailer hitch is firmly attached to the tow vehicle, as a loose connection could lead to wiring issues. If these steps don't yield any results, consider using a voltmeter to test the system for electrical shorts or broken wires. Additionally, you may want to consult a qualified electrician if the problem remains unresolved.

Conclusion

Wiring your boat trailer lights is an essential part of owning a boat. Although it can seem daunting at first, having a basic knowledge of the process and the required tools can make things much simpler. Remember to follow your local laws carefully and to double-check all of your connections before hitting the water. With the right setup, you can rest assured that your boat trailer lights will help keep you, your passengers, and fellow boaters safe while out on the water.

Trailer Wiring Diagram Lights Brakes Routing Wires Connectors