Location of side marker lights

[Frank O]

I have a mid-1990s two-axle Loadmaster trailer for my 21' center console. The trailer is more than 80" wide, so it needs the lighting configuration for a wider trailer.

While replacing the tail lights, I noticed that someone mounted the side marker lights facing forward on a crossbeam just forward of the fenders:

http://www.inkbox.net/whaler/trailer/side-marker.jpg

That doesn't seem regulation. Shouldn't each lamp be facing sideways on the beam a few feet forward of the wheels?

 

[windy5849]

Re: Location of side marker lights

There are numerous threads discussing light placement in this forum.Here is a link to one that should be helpful.

http://www.nhtsa.gov/cars/rules/standards/conspicuity/Trlrpstr.html

 

[ajgraz]

Re: Location of side marker lights

Those are not side-marker lamps, they are forward clearance lamps. As long as they are within 6" of the edge of the fender (i.e., the widest part) they are legal as forward clearance lamps.

Can't see in the pic, but are there also side-facing amber lamps somewhere further forward, maybe on or near the tongue? Those would be your forward side-marker lamps.

 

[j_martin]

Re: Location of side marker lights

Theoretically, the side markers should be halfway between the tail lights of the tow vehicle, and the tail lights of the trailer. I'd mount them on the frame just ahead of the bend toward the tongue.

From the side you should see 2 sets of red lights with an amber marking lamp between them.