Wiring connections on trailer lights

[samagy16]

Just installed a new set of LED lights on my trailer. Easy enough. My question is about the wire connection.

Is it safe to crimp the wire like you would making a wire connection in car wiring for example, or black tape? Twist connector? Or what? This area gets submerged in Salt water everytime I launch and retrieve so I'm not sure if connections need to be done a certain way.

Any input would be appreciated.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Wiring connections on trailer lights

they make water proof connectors, for that situation. http://www.sprinkler.com/buy/wire_connectors

 

[mla2ofus]

Re: Wiring connections on trailer lights

Crimp the wires along w/ shrink tubing. If making a 3 wire connection, wire nut and fill nut and wire insulation w/ silicone.
Mike

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Wiring connections on trailer lights

Absolutely no wire nuts on trailer wiring. You can crimp and heat shrinks three wires just as easily as two.

 

[htv]

Re: Wiring connections on trailer lights

Tyco Electronics/Raychem make a one step solder and heat shrink connection that are pretty nifty.http://www.amazon.com/Tyco-CPGI-CWT-9004-10-12-10-Solder-Splice/dp/B001H1LNWU

 

[samagy16]

Re: Wiring connections on trailer lights

Guys,

Thank you very much. I will visit my local marine store and see what I find as I need these connections done pronto since I will be towing my trailer in two days and can't wait for anything in the mail.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Wiring connections on trailer lights

You don't need a marine store. Most home improvement stores (Lowes, Home Depot, and hardware stores) have a very wide selection of electrical supplies.

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: Wiring connections on trailer lights

Most auto parts stores sell the light blue crimp connections that have the heat shrink already on them...about 6 bucks a pack.

 

[reelfishin]

Re: Wiring connections on trailer lights

I solder and heat shrink all my trailer wire connections. I've never had a problem that way. I buy heat shrink tubing which has a glue inside, it seals the connection permanently. It can be had at most auto supply stores or auto electric shops.

 

[Jeep Man]

Re: Wiring connections on trailer lights

I've spent most of the last 30 years wiring up just about everything. If it is constantly being subjected to water and occasionally salt water, I would solder all connections and use a di-electric grease or liquid rubber to coat the bare wire. Then I would protect it with heat shrink. This will prevent ANY water intrusion which will lead to corrosion.

 

[samagy16]

Re: Wiring connections on trailer lights

Thanks to all that replied to my situation.

I was able to go to my nearest Home Depot a find the TYCO connectors which were perfect. Did not think that Home Depot would have this, thought I was going to have to go to my closest West Marine which is half hour away

Heat was carefully applied and everything turned out perfect. Lights work great and the wiring is neat and well protected.

Once again thanks to all. This forum makes me

 

[htv]

Re: Wiring connections on trailer lights

Yep, the Tyco connectors are great. Solder and shrink wrap beats crimp and shrink wrap every day of the week. It's the new best thing.

 

[lordmercury]

Re: Wiring connections on trailer lights

I solder and heat shrink all my trailer wire connections. I've never had a problem that way. I buy heat shrink tubing which has a glue inside, it seals the connection permanently. It can be had at most auto supply stores or auto electric shops.

+1,000,000
That's the "right way"
I also ran all my wires through the trailer tubes so as to protect them from UV(sunlight) and other man made/caused destructive forces.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Wiring connections on trailer lights

Its the moisture you have to worry about.

 

[Twainman]

Re: Wiring connections on trailer lights

I am all for enclosing wire in the frame. I had 2 trailers in my fenced in storage areas and my daughter put here Brittney pups in there for exercise--need I say more--they exercised on all my trailer wiring that was exposed. Had to re-wire all.

 

[Floatsum]

Re: Wiring connections on trailer lights

Being a salty,,, almost every trailer I've had would have lighting issues unrtil I did them right.
Slide some shrink tubing over the wire.
Straight splice and solder
Paint with liquid tape
Slide the tube over and shrink when tape is almost dry
2 more coats of liquid tape over the shrink and go.

Pull the bulbs, heavily apply elect. grease to contacts and wire joints
Reassemble and you're good for years. I do unplug and cool before launch.

I've had lights in the salt for over 5 yrs. without a issue doing things this way.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Wiring connections on trailer lights

I also like using totally sealed lights. When the bulb burns out, you replace the whole light.