If you're taking on the task of installing a trailer hitch on your truck or car, you're going to require a plug for those lights. Now, as auto repair tasks go, trailer wiring can be a pretty tricky process. If you have faulty wiring, it's a good idea to change it out before you find yourself stuck in a pinch. In this article, we will outline the process of repairing and installing it.
The first step in your application is getting to the tail light harness. This can usually be done by removing the tail light assembly; although in some cases you can pop out a single harness from the back of the light.
Either way, the goal here is to gain access to the wiring. You may need to remove a couple bolts, depending on the vehicle, but the fixture should slide right out afterward.
Next, we need to figure out which does what. Crossed connections have can have hazardous effects (i.e. opposite turn signals). Having a helper at this point is preferable. With your test light, put the clamp end on a grounding point.
Take the sharp end and pierce a wire. Once this is set, have someone operate each signal until the test light illuminates. Whichever signal sets it off will indicate what that particular wire does. Note the location and repeat the process until each wire is accounted for.
In order to divert the electrical flow to the trailer wiring harness, you'll have to tap into the wire by way of device called a Scotch lock. Now, slide the factory wire into the end of the scotch lock that goes up all the way through.
Slide the end of the trailer wiring wire into the end of the scotch lock that stops partway. Make sure to push them into place gently so that doesn't slip. Now it's just a matter of locking it into place.
Make sure your trailer and factory wires are where you want them, and fold the top of the Scotch lock over, pressing it together tightly with pliers. This process drives the metal connector into place so no slips can occur later on. Finally, fold the out clip over and lock it in place. Repeat this process until each wire is secure, keeping in mind to stay neat and tidy.
Go through the lights one by one, making certain that there's a signal at the connector. As long as you see a light each time, you're all set! Simply reinstall your tail lights!
