Should Boat Trailer Lights Short Out When Backed Into Water

Updated 07/24/2024 | Published 03/31/2015

Question:

A Tracker boat trailer, all lights seems to work normally until we launch the boat, then we seem to lose just right side brake/signal light. have replaced the bulb a few times, and it seems to work fine until the trailer is submerged, the outer seal on the bulb cover looks good, contacts seem fine.

asked by: Gary

Expert Reply:

Water and electricity don't mix well. The best recommendation I can make for you would be to unplug your trailer wiring before you back your boat trailer down the ramp and then don't plug the lights back in until the trailer has dried out thoroughly.

While the trailer lights themselves can be listed as waterproof or submergible the wiring of the trailer isn't always so that is why unplugging the trailer lights is recommended. If the assemblies were ever replaced water can easily get in to the connection point and short out the assembly.

expert reply by: Jameson C

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7/24/2024

I have the same problem Forgot to unplug wiring and backed trailer into water. At first when I loaded up my boat and plugged trailer lights in both sides worked. After a short time the right side stopped working. If truck fuse went on truck would both right and left lights on trailer go? Not just the right side only?

Jameson C.

7/24/2024

@Joshstack@hotmailcom Yes, if it was a fuse problem both sides of the trailer's lights would have stopped working so I would not suspect that at all. Instead I would first try letting it dry for a day or so and see if it comes back on. Aside from that try just checking the wiring and the wiring connections on the side that stopped working. Most likely you'll find corrosion or a loose wire.