Grounding Trailer Lights Mounted to PVC Guide-On Posts on Boat Trailer

Updated 08/20/2018 | Published 08/18/2018

Question:

I have a small Jon boat trailer and have PVC guide on post on which I have mounted my new trailer lights. Do I need to run a ground to each of the light bolts that would normally be attached to the metal trailer? Also does the length of the ground wire matter? I was going to run it to the front of the trailer to avoid it getting in salt water. THANKS

asked by: Dave L

Expert Reply:

If the trailer lights you mounted to your post-style guide-ons like # CE27640 ground through their mounting hardware then you will indeed need to add a ground wire from each assembly and attach them to a clean bare metal surface. Length isn't normally an issue but since you plan on running the ground wire all the way to the front of the trailer it will be a good idea to use a higher gauge wire for this application. Using 10 gauge wire should do the trick.

expert reply by: Chris R