Protecting Vehicle Paint from Scratches When Using Magnetic Towing Light Kit # TL21RK

Updated 04/25/2011 | Published 04/22/2011

Products Featured in This Question

Universal Magnetic Tow Lights - 20' Wiring Harness with 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector

(204)

$61.88

Derale High-Temperature Replacement Hose for Transmission - 3/8" Inner Diameter - 25' Long

(4)

$96.76

Question:

When the lights are mounted on the back of our tow vehicle the wires that run from the lights to our electrical hookup on the back of our Class A motorhome are scratching the paint on our car. What would you suggest to secure the wires without hurting the finish on our car? Thanks so much!

asked by: Martha

Expert Reply:

One solution would be to wrap the wires that contact the vehicle in electrical tape. Electrical tape is soft and will not scratch or scuff the vehicle paint. It will also help to protect the wires for the elements. The downside is that a lot of people do not like the look of the electrical tape.

Another option could be to use a wire loom like # 459075 (which is 100 feet worth). The benefit is that it looks better than the tape. The downside is that it is plastic and some edges may be rough, which could lead to it scratching the paint over time.

Maybe the best of both worlds would be to use a rubber hose like # D13017. You would have to cut a slit in it to feed the wires inside, but the rubber construction will not scratch the paint and it will look better than taped wires. You would need to make sure to secure the hose with electrical tape in several places so it does not fall off while traveling.

The last solution involves routing the wires from the vehicle to the motor home in such a way as that the wiring does not contact the top of the vehicle at all. For this to work the wires would have to be routed from the motor home, under the vehicle, avoiding areas that may pinch or burn the wires, and up into the trunk area.

The lights can be stowed in the trunk when not in use. When in use, the trunk lid can be closed on the wires (provided they are not caught in any latching mechanism) and only a small bit will be on the surface of the car.

expert reply by: Michael H