Towed Vehicle Brake Light Options
Magnetic tow lights are the quick and easy way to connect the towed car’s turn signals and brake lights to the motorhome’s . The quality kits include the motorhome side socket, the vehicle side plug, the wire harness and two magnetic lights. Deluxe magnetic tow light kits come with the a storage case and anti-scratch pads to place between the magnet and the body of the towed vehicle. No splicing into the towed vehicle required, Magnetic tow lights are compatible with all makes of automobile and are DOT approved.
Universal wiring kits designed to splice into the vehicles electrical system are available. The best Universal wiring kits come with diodes which make connection easier and prevent electrical feedback to protect the towed vehicles wiring system. The diodes have two wire connections on one side and one on the other. Diodes are designed to be placed inline and have the second wire connection on the input side for the wire harness connecting the motorhome. Again a complete kit will come with diodes, a motorhome side socket, a vehicle side plug, mounting brackets, extension cord to go between the motorhome and the towed vehicle, plenty of bonded, wire connectors, and detailed instructions.
The most recent design is somewhat of a hybrid between the previous two styles of towed vehicle brake light systems. Tail light wiring kits with bulbs require little modification to the towed vehicle and at the same time can be neatly and permanently integrated. Tail light wiring kits with bulbs are like magnetic tow lights in that they operate completely independent of the towed vehicles wiring system however there are no magnets or lenses. Separate sockets and bulbs are mounted inside the towed vehicles tail lights conveniently bypassing the towed vehicles wiring system and protecting the manufacturers warranty. The wiring can be routed underneath the towed vehicle and the socket mounted to the grill or bumper facia. A good kit will include the motorhome side socket, the vehicle side plug, and extension cord to go between the motorhome and the towed vehicle, plenty of bonded wire, light sockets and bulbs.
As a final note, if you are going to splice into the vehicle’s electrical system check to see if the brake and turn signal configuration is the same. If the motorhome has separate brake and turn signals but the towed vehicle does not a wiring converter is required. If the motorhome and the towed vehicle both have separate brake and turn signals a total of 6 diodes is required. Post your questions and happy trails.
December 19th, 2008 at 10:20 pm
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