Explore Universal Small Trailer Tail Lights Options
Universal small trailer tail lights are important for your trailer. They help you see and stay safe on the road. Picking the right tail light is important. It helps you follow the law and makes your trailer easier to see. There are different types of trailer lights. These include LED, incandescent, and combination lights. Each type has its own benefits. Think about what you need when you choose.
Key Takeaways
Pick LED tail lights for their brightness and long life. They can last up to 25,000 hours and save battery power.
Think about incandescent tail lights if you want to save money. They give a warm light but need to be replaced often.
Combination tail lights save space and make wiring easier. They improve safety by showing brake and turn signals clearly.
Always check the size and fit of tail lights before you buy. Correct measurements help with proper installation.
Follow local rules about trailer lights. Make sure your lights meet the law to avoid fines and stay safe.
Types of Trailer Tail Lights
LED Tail Lights
LED tail lights are very popular with trailer owners. They use tiny lights called diodes to shine brightly. This type of light has many benefits:
Brightness: LED lights are brighter than regular bulbs. This helps others see your trailer better on the road.
Longevity: LED lights last much longer than regular ones. They can last up to 25,000 hours or more, so you change them less often.
Energy Efficiency: These lights use less power. This saves battery life, which is great if your trailer runs on batteries.
LED tail lights come in different styles. Some combine brake lights, turn signals, and marker lights into one. This makes them a smart choice for your trailer.
Incandescent Tail Lights
Incandescent tail lights have been used for a long time. They work by heating a filament to create light. They may not be as bright as LEDs, but they have some good points:
Cost-Effective: Incandescent lights usually cost less. If you want to save money, these lights are a good option.
Warm Light: Many people like the warm glow of incandescent lights. This look can be nice, especially for older trailers.
But remember, incandescent lights don’t last as long. They usually last about 1,000 hours. You might need to replace them more often if you use your trailer a lot.
Combination Tail Lights
Combination tail lights give you the best features. They combine brake lights, turn signals, and marker lights into one unit. Here are some important points:
Space-Saving Design: These lights take up less room on your trailer. This is helpful for smaller trailers where space is tight.
Simplified Wiring: With fewer lights to set up, wiring is easier. This makes installation quicker and simpler.
Enhanced Safety: Combination lights make sure all signals are clear. This helps other drivers see what you plan to do, making the road safer.
When picking combination tail lights, make sure they fit your needs. Look for lights that clearly show brake and turn signals.
Features of Trailer Lighting
When you choose trailer lights, think about some important features. These features help your lights work well and keep you safe.
Brightness and Visibility
Brightness is very important for others to see your trailer. You want your brake lights and marker lights to be bright enough for drivers to notice. To check brightness, companies use a method called photometric testing. This tests how strong, spread out, and directed the light is from the lights.
Here’s a quick look at the testing methods for trailer lights:
Testing Method | Description |
|---|---|
Photometric testing | Checks how strong, spread out, and directed the light is from the lights. |
Durability testing | Tests how well lights can handle tough weather and bumps. |
Electrical testing | Looks at the electrical parts like voltage, current, and resistance of the lights. |
Environmental testing | Tests how lights work in different conditions like heat, humidity, and shaking. |
Safety testing | Checks safety features, like how visible the lights are to other drivers. |
Choosing lights with high brightness helps your trailer be seen, especially when it’s dark.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Durability is another key feature for trailer lights. Your lights need to handle bad weather like rain, snow, and extreme heat. Look for lights made from strong materials that resist rust and damage. Weatherproof seals can also protect the inside parts from water and dirt.
When you buy durable trailer lights, you won’t need to replace them often. This saves you money and makes sure your lights work when you need them.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is important for trailers that use battery power. LED lights are great because they save energy. They use less power but still shine brightly. This helps your trailer's battery last longer, so you can use your lights without recharging often.
By picking energy-efficient lights, you help the environment and lower your energy costs.
Compatibility Considerations for Universal Small Trailer Tail Lights
When you pick universal small trailer tail lights, think about compatibility. This helps your lights fit and work well with your trailer.
Size and Fit
First, check the size and fit of the tail lights. Measure the spot where you want to put the lights. Make sure the lights fit tightly without gaps. Most universal small trailer tail lights are standard sizes, but always check the measurements.
Tip: Use a tape measure for accurate sizes.
Note: If your trailer is unique, you might need special lights.
Wiring and Installation
Next, look at wiring and installation. Good wiring is important for your trailer lights to work right. Most tail lights come with a wiring harness to make it easier to install. Follow the instructions from the maker closely.
Here are some steps to follow:
Unplug the trailer from the vehicle.
Take off old lights if needed.
Connect the new lights using the wiring harness.
Test the brake lights and marker lights before finishing.
If you are unsure about wiring, ask a professional for help. This can save you time and keep things safe.
Legal Requirements
Finally, know the legal requirements. Different states have rules about trailer lighting. Make sure your lights follow these rules. This means having working brake lights, turn signals, and marker lights.
Reminder: Check local laws to avoid fines or safety problems.
By thinking about size, wiring, and legal rules, you can find the right universal small trailer tail light for your needs.
Product Recommendations for Trailer Tail Lights
Best LED Options
If you want the best LED lights for your small trailer, look at these:
Bargman 47-84-001: This light kit shines brightly. It has tail lights and turn signals. Its strong design can handle bad weather.
Optronics STL201R: This model looks nice and is very bright. It has reverse lights, which helps keep you safe.
Best Incandescent Options
If you like incandescent lights, check these out:
Peterson Mfg 425: This tail light kit is cheap and gives a warm glow. It comes with everything you need for easy setup.
Bargman 30-84-001: This choice is affordable and reliable. It has a classic look and meets trailer light laws.
Best Combination Options
For the best of both types, combination lights are great. Here are some top choices:
Optronics MC65RB: This kit has tail lights, turn signals, and reverse lights. Its small design saves space on your trailer.
Bargman 47-84-001: This flexible option combines many functions in one. It helps keep all signals clear for other drivers.
Choosing the right trailer light kit is very important for safety. Think about your needs and likes when picking the best lights for your trailer.
Installation Tips for Trailer Lighting
Tools Needed
Before you install your new universal small trailer tail light, get the right tools. Having everything ready makes it easier. Here’s what you will need:
Screwdriver: A flathead or Phillips screwdriver helps remove old lights.
Wire Strippers: These prepare the wires for connecting.
Electrical Tape: Use this to secure connections and stop short circuits.
Wrench: A wrench may be needed for bolts or nuts.
Multimeter: This checks the electrical connections.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Follow these steps to install your new trailer lights correctly:
Disconnect the Trailer: Unplug the trailer from your vehicle for safety.
Remove Old Lights: Use your screwdriver to take off the old tail lights. Keep the screws safe.
Prepare Wires: Use wire strippers to expose half an inch of wire on each end. This helps with connections.
Connect New Lights: Follow the instructions with your trailer light kit. Connect the new wires to the existing ones. Match colors: black is usually ground, red or yellow is for power.
Secure Connections: Use electrical tape to wrap the connections. This protects them from moisture and dirt.
Test the Lights: Before finishing, plug the trailer back into your vehicle. Check the brake lights and reverse lights to make sure they work.
Reattach the Lights: Once everything works, secure the new lights with screws.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When installing trailer lights, avoid these mistakes:
Ignoring the Manual: Always read the instructions that come with your trailer light kit. Skipping this can lead to mistakes.
Not Testing Lights: Failing to test the lights before securing them can mean redoing the work.
Poor Wire Connections: Make sure your wire connections are tight. Loose connections can cause lights to flicker or not work.
Neglecting Legal Requirements: Ensure your installation meets local laws about trailer lighting. This includes having working brake lights and turn signals.
By following these tips, you can successfully install your trailer lights and stay safe on the road.
In conclusion, there are many choices for trailer tail lights. You can pick LED, incandescent, or combination lights. Each type has its own advantages. When choosing your lights, think about brightness, strength, and energy use. Ensure the lights fit your trailer and follow the law. By considering these things, you can find the best tail lights for your needs and stay safe on the road.
FAQ
What are the benefits of LED tail lights over incandescent lights?
LED tail lights are brighter and last longer. They use less energy than incandescent lights. This makes them a smart choice for trailers because they help you see better and need fewer replacements.
How do I know if my trailer lights are legal?
Check your local laws about trailer lights. Make sure your lights have working brake lights, turn signals, and marker lights. Following these rules helps you avoid fines and stay safe on the road.
Can I install trailer lights myself?
Yes, you can install trailer lights by yourself. Get the right tools and follow the instructions from the maker. If you are unsure about wiring, ask a professional for help to keep things safe.
How do I maintain my trailer lights?
Look at your trailer lights often for damage or rust. Clean the lenses and connections to keep them working well. Change any burnt-out bulbs quickly to stay visible.
What should I do if my trailer lights stop working?
First, check the wiring connections and fuses. Make sure the bulbs are not burnt out. If the problem continues, talk to a professional to find and fix the issue.