Rewiring Boat Trailer

[misterfixit]

With just purchasing an old boat, I have some issues with the wiring; they are broken and missing in places. I want to get this trailer back up to operational specs to move the boat around and become licenced. What is the best way to rewire the trailer that has an electric brake on it to aid in slowing the vehicle down as the brakes are applied.

 

[alldodge]

Re: Rewiring Boat Trailer

With just purchasing an old boat, I have some issues with the wiring; they are broken and missing in places. I want to get this trailer back up to operational specs to move the boat around and become licenced. What is the best way to rewire the trailer that has an electric brake on it to aid in slowing the vehicle down as the brakes are applied.

It's not unheard of having electric brakes on a boat trailer, but they don't normally come that way. If you do have electric brakes on your trailer, you will need 6 wires going from the connector the lights and brakes. most use the 7 blade connector because it is coming more standard. Also need a brake controller for the truck. Have a look here for wiring

Trailer Wiring Diagrams | etrailer.com

 

[jayhanig]

Re: Rewiring Boat Trailer

I probably don't need to say this but I assume you are going to replace the entire wiring harness. Don't bother trying to repair what you have; replace the entire harness. I am a big fan of soldering rather than crimping and also using heat shrink generously.

You might consider upgrading to LED tail/turn lights. They are much brighter and will hold up better in the long run. This would be the time. You only want to do this once.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Rewiring Boat Trailer

Whatever you use, soldering or crimp connectors(I prefer crimps) NEVER use these:

I am replacing all the wire on my trailer because of these. They break the insulation and will cause wire to corrode for feet past these things.