Can a Tail Light Isolating Diode System Be Used on a Chevy Colorado with Separate Brake Light

Updated 02/25/2010 | Published 02/24/2010

Products Featured in This Question

Hopkins 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 4-Way Flat Connector

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$43.63

Dielectric Grease for Electrical Connectors, 2 oz.

(1481)

$10.94

Liquid Electrical Tape

(11)

$28.04

Question:

I just purchased a 2008 Chevy Colorado for use a toad behind my motor home. My motor home is a Ford chassis with combined brake & turn signal / taillight bulb. My Colorado has a seperate brake & taillight bulb and a seperate turn signal & taillight bulb . Can I use your 4 diode system and just use one bulb on the Colorado as the brake & signal / taillight? Are the diodes in a weather proof case so that they can be mounted near the rear taillights? Are there any issues with using the existing taillights on the Colorado? Thanks

asked by: Ken S

Expert Reply:

Yes, you can use the 4-Diode System, part # 38955, to wire your Colorado. As you pointed out, the turn and brake signals will not longer be on separate bulbs.

The diodes should be sealed enough that they will hold up mounted near the tail lights. I would not put them in direct exposure to rain or road water. I would mount them behind the tail light housings using the light fixture seal to block out most of the rain water. I would also use a dab of dieletric grease, part # 11755, at each spade connector. It would not hurt to also wrap the diode and connectors in electrical tape or use Liquid Electrical Tape, part # SWC50122, to seal around the spade connectors.

We have not heard of or seen any problems installing tow wiring on a Colorado with the existing tail lights.

I have added a link to a diagram you can use for wiring as well as a video of a similar kit being installed on a 2006 Jeep Liberty.

expert reply by: Patrick B