Recommended Backup Lights For Boat Trailer

Updated 03/31/2021 | Published 03/29/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Optronics LED Trailer Utility Light - Submersible - 10 Diodes - Oval - Clear Lens

(362)

$34.64

16 Gauge Primary Wire - Black - Per Foot

(61)

$1.14

Curt Trailer Connector Adapter - 4-Way Flat to 5-Way Flat - Vehicle End

(103)

$12.90

Deka Heat Shrink Butt Connector - 16-14 Gauge - Nylon Insulation - Blue - Qty 5

(1104)

$8.52

7-Way Molded Trailer Wire Connector, 6' Long

(391)

$45.03

Hopkins Endurance 5-Way Flat Trailer Connector - Trailer End - Ergonomic Design

(90)

$12.94

Question:

I am having a hard time trying to commit to these 10 diode lights. Optronics LED Trailer Utility Light - Submersible - 10 Diodes - Oval - Clear Lens - BUL28CLPB I am looking for bright backup lights on the boat trailer. tough to see in the dark backing into the ramps. I was thinking maybe 4 of these two in the rear and two toward the front of the trailer. are there better lights I should use? also on the back should I use surface mount or can I safely cut two more holes? trailer channel is 2inch aluminum. thanks

asked by: Tom R

Expert Reply:

The Optronics LED Trailer Utility Light - Submersible - 10 Diodes - Oval - Clear Lens # BUL28CLPB is a great option to add to the back of your boat trailer for additional light when backing up the trailer in the dark.

Adding 4 lights total with 2 in the front and 2 in the rear sounds like a good plan as it will also give you additional light around the trailer.

I would not cut any holes in the frame of the trailer, and would source hardware from your local hardware store and mount them directly to the frame of your trailer. Make sure use a stainless steel bolt as it will not rust.

To wire the lights will be dependent on your current wiring. If your trailer uses a 4-way connector and does not have a surge brake actuator, or has a surge brake actuator without an electric lockout solenoid I recommend adding a 5-way connector # HM47910 and # 16-1-1 to run from the connector to each LED light using heat shrink butt connectors # DW05744-5 for a weather tight connection. You can then add the # C57187 to adapt the 4-way connector on your tow vehicle to a 5-way connector.

If your trailer already has a 5-way connector for a surge brake actuator you will need to convert your trailer to a 7-way connector using # H20044. You will need to add a 7-way connector to your tow vehicle if you do not already have one. If you can tell me the Year/Make/Model of your tow vehicle I would happy to recommend a 7-way connector for you.

I included videos of the products mentioned for you to take a look at.