Parts Needed To Add Running Lights To a Hitch Mounted Folding Cargo Carrier

Updated 11/13/2023 | Published 11/11/2023

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Auxiliary LED Indicator Lights

(244)

$32.94

Hopkins 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector w/ LED Test Lights - Trailer End - 24"

(18)

$8.70

LED Clearance or Side Marker Trailer Light w/ Reflector - 1 Diode - Oval - Red Lens

(4188)

$13.66

18-Gauge 2-Wire Bonded Parallel Conductor Wire - per Foot

(3)

$0.71

Question:

I want to add rear lights to my cargo carrier. Not necessarily brake and turn, but at least marker lights. If I use a four prong plug wire, will attaching the white ground to the carrier be enough for a ground? Or will I need to find a different way to ground it. It’s a fold up style. Also, could you recommend bright marker lights that have center post connection where the wire goes through the center post? Less holes to drill. Thank you in advance.

asked by: Scott M

Expert Reply:

I have a couple options you might consider. First is the easiest and would involve the Auxiliary Lights # C53201. The lights themselves adhere with double sided tape to your cargo carrier and the wiring can easily be run through your center post to keep everything tidy. These lights are going to function as running lights, turn signals and brake lights. If you prefer to only use marker lights you could cut off the 2 male terminals on the connector which activate the turn/brake lights.

If you prefer to install more basic marker lights like the Lights # MCL0030RBB I would not recommend using any parts of the cargo carrier as a ground since the folding design adds play and would break the electrical connection as the carrier moves around. You will want to run Bonded Wire # SWC97FR which we sell by the foot from the 4-Way # HM48133 all the way to the lights. You can still run the wiring through your center post on the carrier to help conceal all the wiring.

expert reply by: Bud M