Backup Light Wiring for Trailer Reverse Light Installation

Updated 05/09/2019 | Published 05/08/2019

Products Featured in This Question

X LED Truck and Trailer Tail Light w/ Reverse Function - Submersible - Oval - Red and White

(17)

$21.72

Curt Trailer Connector Adapter - 4-Way Flat to 5-Way Flat - Vehicle End

(103)

$13.44

Deka Heat Shrink Butt Connector - 16-14 Gauge - Nylon Insulation - Blue - Qty 10

(1123)

$16.52

Question:

backup light for trailer How is a backup light wired for a trailer to come on in reverse ? I’m thinking an extra wire would have to be run

asked by: Dave

Helpful Expert Reply:

You are correct that a separate wire is run for a reverse light. The Light Guide LED Truck/Trailer Light - Backup and Tail - Submersible - 12 Diodes - Oval - Clear Lens # BUL602CRB will use the reverse light circuit of your tow vehicle, normally tapped into at the tail light assembly reverse light. This does require adding another wire to your trailer connector. I recommend using the Hopkins Endurance 5-Way Flat Trailer Wiring Kit - Vehicle and Trailer Ends - Ergonomic Design # HM47890. I recommend using heat shrink butt connectors # DW05744-10 for this installation.

Alternatively you can use the Curt Trailer Connector Adapter - 4-Way Flat to 5-Way Flat - Vehicle End # C57187 if you already have the 5-way on your trailer.

On the trailer if the wires aren't already run you will use # 16-1-1 for that reverse light power and then the ground connection for the light like # BUL602CRB will be the trailer frame.

expert reply by: Jason S