Are Load Resistors Needed for Switching Travel Trailer 1156 Bulbs to LED Versions

Updated 02/05/2019 | Published 02/03/2019

Products Featured in This Question

1141/1156 LED Bulb - Single Contact Bayonet - 360 Degree - 210 Lumens - Cool White - Qty 2

(83)

$14.07

Luma LED Bulbs - 1156 - 360 Degree - 42 Diodes - Red - Qty 2

$44.80

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

(36)

$10.44

Question:

Will the LED bulbs replace 1156 bulbs used for Travel Trailer Rear Brake, Turn signal and license plate light and do I need the resistor kit?

asked by: Phillip B

Expert Reply:

The LED versions of light bulbs such as those that replace the popular 1156 type generally do not require load resistors. All of the LED elements that fit in place of an 1156 bulb are shown on the linked page and these include the 18-LED bright white part # DI85VR, as an example.

Some trailers and vehicles may need load resistors when they are switched to LED lights but this can't be predicted 100% of the time. There are a lot of variables in wiring setups. Most often the LED replacements will work just fine. But if the turn signals exhibit fast hyper-flashing load resistors like # DI34ZR can be installed.

Please note that your lights will be brightest if you match the color of the LED light to the color of the light lens it will shine through. For example, if you were installing an LED light behind a red lens you would want to use a red LED such as # 11562-S21SMD-R.

expert reply by: Adam R