Although it is not common, it is possible to LED work lights connect to a trailer. In this blog, we will tell you more about connecting work lights to a trailer. Additionally, we will explain what to look for when searching for the right LED work lights for your trailer or towed vehicle.
A LED work lamp on a trailer is actually an addition to the regular set of lights. The normal set of lights on a trailer consists of: combination rear lights (tail light, brake light, turn signal, fog light, and a triangle reflector), marker lights, and width lamps.
The LED work lamps are not necessary on a trailer. Additionally, the work lamps may not be used on public roads. As the name of the lighting category partially suggests, the work lamps are exclusively intended for use during work in the dark.
Connecting work lamps to a trailer as reverse lights
In many cases, the LED work lamps on a trailer serve as reverse lights. This category of work lamps is indicated by an ECE-R23 certification.
When deciding to connect an additional reverse light, it is important to observe the following guidelines. When using an R23 certified LED work lamp, it is important that the work light is not positioned higher than 1.2 meters and not lower than 0.25 meters. This creates a specific angle of 30 degrees, which helps prevent glare for following traffic. Connecting an additional reverse light is of great value when you need to reverse your trailer in the dark. This form of additional lighting ensures that you have sufficient visibility of what is happening behind you.
LED work lights cause a malfunction when connected to the trailer.
When connecting work lights to your trailer, it's possible that the towing vehicle may not detect the LED lighting. The cause of this is that the LEDs require too little power from the towing vehicle for it to detect the lighting. This problem can be resolved by using a power resistor to the vehicle. Adding a power resistor enables the lighting to be recognized, and the lighting functions properly.
In addition to resolving the malfunction, you could also choose LED lighting that already comes with a CAN-bus proof solution. This will also solve the problem of your towing vehicle not detecting the LED lighting. By opting for a CAN-bus solution, the vehicle will recognize the LED lighting, eliminating any malfunctions.
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Connecting work lights to a trailer can be done through various connections
There are several options for LED work light to connect it to a trailer. Below, the most common connections are further explained.
Deutsch connector
The Deutsch connector is a commonly used connector when connecting the work lamp to a trailer and is available in various lengths up to 4 meters. The advantage of a Deutsch connector is that it is easy to connect in the cable system compared to other connectors.
It can of course happen that an LED work lamp on your trailer is damaged. In such a case, replacing the work lamp is very easy. You can easily disconnect the broken work lamp and replace it with a new LED work lamp. This is because the LED work lamps are equipped with a simple Deutsch connector.
The Deutsch connectors come in various lengths with the possibility of branches, allowing you to connect more work lamps to your trailer. Additionally, it is also possible to connect a Deutsch connector to your existing cable with a connection kit.
AMP Superseal connector
The AMP Superseal connector is a waterproof connector that is resistant to harsh conditions such as exposure to fuel, oil, salt, etc. These connectors are used in many different industries such as agriculture, machinery, and the automotive industry, making them suitable for connecting work lights to a trailer.
Pay attention to the fact that the connectors are IEC529 and DIN40050 certified for water resistance.
Connection box/junction box
The connections are linked using a connection box. This connection box can be used as a central box where the connections are linked. This can be useful when you want to connect work lights to a trailer. From the towing vehicle, a central cable goes to the distribution box from which all the lighting on the trailer is controlled.
