How to Install Trailer Clearance Lights

camping,trailer image by Greg Pickens from Fotolia.com

Clearance lights for camper trailers are small yellow lights that go on the lower rear and side parts of the trailer. These lights give added safety and alert other drivers to the presence of the camper trailer. In addition, the lights give the driver extra side lighting, so when the trailer is being towed at night, it is possible to see the back of the trailer thanks to these lights. Installing extra clearance lights is a relatively simple process.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Determine a Location for the Lights

Things You’ll Need:

Brown auto wire
Pliers
Electrical tape
Connector terminals (splice type)
Adjustable wrench
Power drill

Step 1

Look at the rear or the trailer and determine where you wish to place the additional lights. Consult with your local DMV or law enforcement agency on the legalities of light placement prior to installment. Take one splice connector and the brown auto wire and insert the wire into the splice connector. Use the pliers to crimp them together.

Step 2

Drill a hole in the trailer for the additional lamp bolt (light connector). Screw the connector lamp bolt into the hole. On the inside of the trailer, add the nut and connector bolt to secure it in place. Tighten until the bolt stays in place.

Step 3

Thread the brown auto wire from the four-way electric flat (trailer light connector--a rectangular, flat black panel of wires) and attach the wire to the panel flat and to the lamp splice end. Crimp together with the pliers. Go to the vehicle and start it up, then turn on the lights. Check to see that the installed light is working properly. Add more lights, if necessary, following the same procedure.

Tips & Warnings

Do not attach wires or electric connections when the vehicle is on. This can result in electric shock.

Article Written By Eric Cedric

A former Alaskan of 20 years, Eric Cedric now resides in California. He's published in "Outside" and "Backpacker" and has written a book on life in small-town Alaska, "North by Southeast." Cedric was a professional mountain guide and backcountry expedition leader for 18 years. He worked in Russia, Iceland, Greece, Turkey and Belize. Cedric attended Syracuse University and is a private pilot.

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