driftboat trailer rewiring tips

SSPey · 08-09-2002, 08:46 PM

One of the lights on my DB trailer isn't working correctly, it stays lit but won't register turn signals. The trailer wiring has given me enough trouble over the years that I wan't to rewire it myself from scratch. Any tips for the electrically challenged? The trailer is a sturdybuilt, regular 4 pin

KENAIDOG · 08-09-2002, 08:55 PM

FnF, i just rewired my trailer using a kit that includes everything from lights to wiring. Real simple just match color to color. I got it at Joes for around 40.00. First thing i would do is just cut off all splices and reconnect with some new butt splices with shrink tube around them. Sometimes this will help because the old wire has corrodid so much around the splice it will not conduct anymore. This might help, and you could get away with maybe just replacing one light and saving you some $$$$. GOOD LUCK

Pete · 08-09-2002, 09:06 PM

I got some Peterson submersible lights ... think I got them at G. I. Joe's ... they are amazing. The bulbs are encased in a plastic bubble, so cold water never touches the hot bulb. Knock on wood, I've had them for 2 years and haven't had a problem. For about $15 a side, I don't think anything else is worth the time!

08-09-2002, 09:28 PM

Follow the two posts above and you can't go wrong.

ladtrips · 08-09-2002, 09:34 PM

Good idea starting from scratch. 99% of all wiring problems are in the ground. Make sure all connections are grounded to bare metal. I have the fully enclosed lights on my boat also. So far so good, still entact and I never unplug them when launching. Good luck.

Miss B Haven · 08-09-2002, 10:05 PM

floatnfish - If you're close to Hillsboro shoot me an e-mail or call my cell (503) 887-0561. Between the Farm stuff, boats and MH's seems like I've rewired about a hundered trailers (once each). Drag it over and I'll give you a lesson. You buy the parts if we need any. The sealed bulbs are the ONLY way to go, don't get the ones that the water can go up into but only so far (air trap). Problem is that the wires/connectors are below that line and the connections go away.

Tilla · 08-10-2002, 09:53 AM

I've got the Wesbar trailer lights with the replaceable "sealed illumination capsule", great idea, but..........keep a spare capsule around ($8.00) you cannot find them at many auto parts stores. And many have no clue what you are talking about.
I ordered two spares from Cabelas.