Aluminum Versus Ceramic Load Resistors for Replacing Incandescent Lights for LED Lights on RV

Question:

Inquiring about the difference between ceramic and or aluminum load resistors for replacement rv taillights with brake , stop, turn signals replacing old tail light to newer led system thank you

asked by: Joseph R

Expert Reply:

Load resistors, such as # DI34ZR, will get hot as they do their job of absorbing power (providing resistance). They will work fine for helping a wiring harness work well with low-power-demand LED type trailer lighting.

The difference between them is that the aluminum resistors will be able to more quickly dissipate that heat to the surrounding air. The aluminum housing will release it's heat better since the material itself is more conductive of heat than ceramic (which is really an insulator material) and because the aluminum housing has ribs that provide more surface area to contact the surrounding air. Aluminum load resistors will stay a bit cooler in operation than ceramic ones.

You may not even need load resistors to switch to LED lights. The best thing to do is to try the lights without load resistors first. No need to purchase something you may not need until you know need it.

Load resistors increase the amperage draw on a circuit. If you are experiencing hyperflash on the turn signals or the LED lights do not have enough draw to activate a load resistor will help. You would need one per affected circuit. I have linked the instructions for you to view.

expert reply by: Jackie C