Are Diodes Needed when Switching Trailer and Vehicle to LED Lights

Updated 11/07/2017 | Published 11/06/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Hopkins Tail Light Converter with 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector

(48)

$30.47

Load Resistor Kit for LED Turn Signals - 50 Watts - 6 Ohm - Qty 2

(36)

$10.96

Question:

with or without LEDs, it be back feedin, i got a regular 5 to 4 trailer wire converter. i dont want to mess around to buy a new trailer wire converter and just needin diodes the vehicle has added separated turn signals while the brake and tail is combined in 1, grounded down good and all that. i replaced all bulbs and lights to LEDs on towed vehicle and trailer when i press the brake, the headlights with LED bulbs flickers, do i need diodes for those too?

asked by: Chad

Expert Reply:

You wouldn't need diodes when using Hopkins wiring harness # HM48895 but you may need load resistors on any affected circuits. When switching to LED lights you could experience hyper flashing with turn signals. In some situations, the LED lights won't draw enough power for the electrical system to recognize them. The load resistors will help with that issue, too.

You can get a 2-pack of load resistors using # DI34ZR. You would need one load resistor per affected circuit.

expert reply by: Michael H