Seperate Turn Signals

[geartow]

Has anyone gone to separate turn signals from there brake lights ? to get rid of the converter-box. It would only require one extra conductor to do and a 5 way connecter . If you did did you use yellow or red lights on t5he trailer?

[legojenn]

Has anyone gone to separate turn signals from there brake lights ? to get rid of the converter-box. It would only require one extra conductor to do and a 5 way connecter . If you did did you use yellow or red lights on t5he trailer?

My trailer came with amber signal lights. The yellow and green lines go to the signal light and a separate line goes to the brake. I don't know why we in North America don't copy the British and Europeans with separate tail, signal and brake lights.

[absolutsnwbrdr]

If your tow vehicle has separate turn signals and brake lights then its easy, and the converter box isn't necessary. If your tow vehicle uses the same bulb for turn and brake, then its a different story.

Also, the converter takes the additional load created by the trailer lights off of the tow vehicles electrical system. Some turn signals will flash rapidly or slowly depending on the resistance in the system, and adding the load of trailer lights can affect that.

Another reason that people use the converter boxes and do not come up with their own wiring system is because its a standard system. You can wire up your trailer however you like, but if you do something is not standard, then you will not be able to switch tow vehicles or tow any trailer that is not wired your special way.

I suppose you could rig up your own adapter, but why?

http://www.etrailer.com/faq-wiring.aspx

[absolutsnwbrdr]

If you do separate the brake and tail lights, brake lights are required to be red, while the rear turn signals can be either red or amber.

http://www.easternmarine.com/em_store/t ... _tech.html

http://www.nhtsa.gov/cars/rules/standar ... rpstr.html

[Dale M.]

Also, the converter takes the additional load created by the trailer lights off of the tow vehicles electrical system. Some turn signals will flash rapidly or slowly depending on the resistance in the system, and adding the load of trailer lights can affect that.

Only if its a POWERED converter box..... Some are not....

Dale

[absolutsnwbrdr]

I learn something new every day. Thanks for the correction Dale.