How to Install LED Trailer Light that Grounds Through Mounting Hardware on Aluminum Trailer

Updated 04/18/2019 | Published 04/17/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Dragon's Eye LED Clearance or Side Marker Light - Weatherproof - Oval - 2 Diodes - Amber Lens

(287)

$16.38

12 Gauge Wire - Black Primary - Per Foot

(30)

$2.02

Question:

does the mounting surface has to be metal for the one wire trailer light to be grounded and lit? because i have an aluminum mounting surface on our trailer where i want to place the lights.

asked by: Jake Y

Helpful Expert Reply:

Since the Dragon's Eye LED Clearance Light # DG52505VP that you referenced grounds through its mounting hardware you will want to actually add a ground wire with some 12 gauge wire like # 12-1-1. You will need to attach the wire at one end to the light's mounting bolt and run it up to the main ground circuit at the trailer connector.

Aluminum doesn't conduct electricity very well so mounting this light directly to the frame without adding a ground wire will likely result in intermittent operation. Running a ground wire from the light up to the connector is the only sure way to maintain a secure ground connection and complete the circuit.

expert reply by: Chris R