How to Install Horse Trailer Lights
Having working lights on your horse trailer is a necessity. It keeps you and other drivers safe on the road and it's the law. Whether you need to replace your old lights or just add more, installing horse trailer lights is something you can do at home.
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Instructions
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1
Buy lights. You'll need running lights, brake lights, turn signals and backup lights at least. Lights for the license plate are optional. Also purchase wiring and brackets for every light you buy.
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2
Look at your towing vehicle and determine what type of connection it has. These are available in 4-, 5-, 6- and 7-way connectors and each allows more functions to be transferred from your towing vehicle to your trailer.
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3
Choose where you want the lights and mount the brackets to the horse trailer. Attach them securely so they will endure lots of travel.
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4
Put the correct lights into the correct brackets. Don't forget to put the wire through the bracket first then secure the light. Get all the lights attached before worrying about the wires.
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5
Run the wires to the front of the trailer and add the connector. Match the wire colors on the towing vehicle with the wire colors on the trailer.
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6
Match the connector on your trailer to the one on your towing vehicle. This way when you hitch the trailer to the vehicle all you'll need to do is plug in and your horse trailer lights will be running.
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7
Test everything so you know it's working properly.
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Tips & Warnings
Each wire on your towing vehicle is color coded and each color indicates a different function. But what function each color indicates differs by vehicle manufacturer. Read your owner's manual to help you determine what each color of wire does.
If your trailer doesn't come equipped with interior lights consider buying and installing those, too. Trailering your horses will be easier when you have the luxury to trailer them day or night.
Rather than purchasing all parts separately, consider purchasing a light kit. It will come complete with all the lights, wiring and brackets you need.
Remember that wiring needs to be kept away from horses reach inside the trailer. If run under the trailer protect it by running through plastic or rubber tubing to protect it from rocks and gravel creating excess wear.
If your trailer lights aren't working don't rush right out to install new ones. Check the ground wires and the other wiring and scrub the dirt off all the metal parts with a wire brush. This buildup can keep your lights from functioning properly.
