Good lighting and dependable wiring keep you visible and connected on the road. Replacing burned-out bulbs or worn cables restores safety and peace of mind every time you tow. Choose lights designed for your trailer size and wiring kits that match your vehicle connection. A clean, secure setup keeps signals clear, power steady, and your trailer legal wherever you travel.
It sounds like you are speaking of the wires for the brake magnets. If this is correct, you will need to connect one of the wires to the brake controller output wire on your trailer connector and the other wire will need to be grounded to a clean…
That's a very good question, we tend to be extra cautious and say to use 10 gauge wire because that would be more than enough. When you get into longer trailers that will end up using a lot of wire the heavier gauge wire becomes more necessary.…
Hey Dan. The only DC to DC charger that you might be able to get away with mounting in a battery box is the OptiMate Smart Battery Charger item #MA99JR. It has a weatherproof case but it's still restricted to inside use only. An easier and more…
Hey Michael, thanks for reaching out! The Dexter Nev-R-Adjust Electric Trailer Brakes #23-468-469 are an excellent choice, and will pair nicely with the Dexter Trailer Hub & Drum Assembly #84546UC3-EZ. This hub and drum comes pre-greased to…
Since wire color codes are NOT universal, we always recommend wiring by function, rather than wire color. If you look at the Trailer Wiring FAQ article I have linked you to, you can see some diagrams showing the proper way to wire a vehicle and…
Typically 4-way wiring consists of 18 and 16 gauge wires. For a 4-way that has all 16 gauge wire you would want the Wesbar 4-Pole Flat Connector #W787264. The part #HM38138 uses 18 gauge for all wires but the white that uses 16 gauge.
A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…
Hey Kevin, the DeeMaxx Alpha G1600 Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator for Disc Brakes - Plug and Play Kit #DE75KR that you referenced is a solid option and does not require an additional control box to operate unless you would be referring to a brake…
Hey Tom. The highest capacity drum brake assemblies we have for a 4 bolt brake flange are the Dexter Electric Trailer Brakes item #23-105-106-09. These are a 6,000 lbs set that are mainly used with AL-KO/Hayes axles. Do you have any part numbers or…
A trailer that is over 80 inches wide is required by DOT regulations to have rear clearance lights. An over 80 inch taillight kit, like part #TL16RK, will have the side clearance light built into it. An under 80 inch taillight does not have the…
Hey Chuck, usually this is a shock problem with surge actuators. The shock isn't allowing the coupler inner member to go all the way forward and release the hydraulic pressure. We have replacement shocks but I would need to know which actuator…
etrailer Has Everything You Need, From Lights to Wiring and Tools
For more than 75 years, etrailer has helped trailer owners stay safe and seen on the road. We carry trusted lighting and wiring brands, document every install, and show you how each connection works. From simple four way setups to full seven way systems, you will find reliable parts and clear guidance to make every wiring job straightforward. Count on etrailer for lights and wiring that keep you connected and compliant wherever you tow.
What types of trailer lights do I need?
You’ll need tail lights, clearance lights, and possibly license plate lights or reflectors, depending on your trailer and local regulations. These lights make sure you’re visible and legal while on the road. For more information on lighting requirements, visit our FAQ.
How do I figure out the right wiring harness for my trailer?
It depends on what your trailer needs and the type of connector on your vehicle. There are 4-way, 5-way, 6-way, and 7-way harnesses. A 4-way covers basic lights like turn signals and brake lights, while a 7-way adds extra features like reverse lights or electric brakes.
How do I install a 4-way trailer wiring harness?
First, find a clean metal spot on your trailer frame and attach the ground wire securely with a self-tapping screw—this is super important for everything to work. Next, lay the wires along the frame, making sure they’re out of the way of any sharp edges or moving parts, and secure them with zip ties.Now, connect the harness wires to the trailer light wires. These control the brake lights, turn signals, and tail lights. Use wire connectors to join them, and protect those connections with electrical tape or heat shrink tubing to keep out moisture.Once everything’s connected, plug the harness into your vehicle and test the lights. Make sure the brake, turn signals, and tail lights all work properly. If they do, just go back and secure the wires neatly along the frame, and you’re good to go! Need extra help? Check out our trailer wiring diagrams for a visual guide to get everything set up correctly.
Can I have my trailer wiring or lights professionally installed?
Yes—and sometimes it’s the smartest move. Installing trailer lighting and wiring might seem simple, but it can get tricky when you’re dealing with multiple light types, adapters, or converting from a 4-way to a 7-way setup. If you'd prefer to have a pro handle the wiring, splicing, or testing, use our Local Installer Locator Tool to find a qualified technician near you. It's a great way to make sure your lights are road-ready—and legal—without the guesswork.
My trailer lights aren’t working. What should I check?
First, make sure all the ground connections are tight and clean—poor grounding is a common issue. Then check for damaged wires, test the lights with a circuit tester, and try replacing the bulbs. It’s usually one of those!
Can I switch from a 4-way to a 7-way connector?
Definitely! You’ll need an adapter kit, like the ETBC7. It lets you add functions like electric brakes and reverse lights. Just plug it into your 4-way and wire in the extra features.
What is a junction box and how do I use one?
A junction box helps organize and protect all your trailer lights and wiring. It keeps connections clean, makes future troubleshooting easier, and is perfect for trailers with multiple lighting functions.