Options for Replacing Incandescent Bulbs with LED Equivalents to Reduce Power Demand
Updated 06/21/2018 | Published 06/19/2018
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I want to upgrade my 5th wheel tail/stop lights to Led. My present fixtures are Optronics AIST01. I am looking at Command Electronics 328-003-81BM1 and 328-003-81LBM1. I notice there is a small difference in height, but shouldnt be a problem. Otherwise would these fixtures be a suitable LED upgrade? Also are there any other issues to deal with when upgrading from incandescent to LED? Thanks for your help.
asked by: Bob B
Expert Reply:
Converting an RV to LED lighting is a great way to both make it more visible and to reduce the power demands on your tow vehicle wiring setup. I have an alternative suggestion that you may like since it might save you some money and installation time.
We have LED equivalent bulb replacements like # AR50368 and many others that can replace the most common incandescent bulb types. These offer a simple way to upgrade to LEDs without having to replace the entire fixture and this route often costs less than whole new lights. All you need to do is determine the incandescent bulb number used in your lights and then select the appropriate type and color of LED "bulb".
The linked page displays all of these items; just click on your bulb number(s) in the margin to see the LEDs that will replace that bulb. You will want to use an LED of the same color as the lens that covers it; so use a red LED such as # P230921R360 for a tail light and a white LED like # DI85VR for a reverse light, etc.
I suggest also installing a load resistor on each turn signal circuit since sometimes hyper-flashing can occur (very rapid flashing of the turn signal) when an LED replaces an incandescent bulb. You an use part # DI34ZR which is a set of two.
If you prefer to mount whole new lights # 328-003-81BM1 and # 328-003-81LBM1 that is fine but you will again need the load resistors on the turn signals.
The linked article on trailer lighting may be of interest.
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Search Results: trailer jack
- Search Results: trailer lights
- Video: All About the Replacement 24-1/2" Left Rear Leg
- Video: Lippert Ground Control Replacement Leg Installation - 2015 Forest River Vengeance TT Toy Hauler
- Video: Ultimate Overview of the Replacement 24-1/2" Right Rear Leg
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Low Profile LED RV Tail Light w/ License Bracket - 4 Function - 12 Diodes - Black Base - Driver Side
- Shop: Optronics LED RV Tail Light and License Bracket - Stop, Tail, Turn, Backup - Oblong - Driver Side
- Shop: RV Designer Rectangular Incandescent License Light w/ Bracket - Back-Up with Reflex
- Q&A: Replacement Trailer Tail Light for SAE Number AISTO1
- Shop: Replacement 22-1/2" Right Rear Leg for Lippert Ground Control 3.0 Electric Leveling System
- Shop: Replacement 22-1/2" Left Rear Leg for Lippert Ground Control 3.0 Electric Leveling System
- Shop: Replacement Hall Effect Motor for Lippert Components Ground Control 3.0 Leveling System
- Shop: Replacement 24-1/2" Right Rear Leg - Lippert Ground Control 3.0 Electric Leveling System
- Video: Let’s Check Out the Low Profile LED RV Tail Light
- Video: DIY Install: Low Profile LED RV Tail Light on your 2021 Coachmen Apex Ultra-Lite Travel Trailer
- Q&A: Replacement Tail Light for 2022 Montana High Country
- Q&A: Available LED-Type Trailer Lighting to Convert from Incandescent Bulbs
- Q&A: Replacement Control Module For 6-Point Lippert Ground Control Using Control Module 346005
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Search Results: trailer wiring
on Trailer Lights
