Trailer wiring…how to improve grounding…

Lou C

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Nov 10, 2002
Messages
12,681
This is in response to the thread about testing trailer wiring where the debate was whether separate ground wires were necessary or not. Grounds are a common problem and here’s how I solved it on my trailer…run ground wires tying together all parts of the trailer so that corrosion in a bolted together trailer like most galvanized trailers will see in salt water use doesn’t disrupt the ground or return path. So the white wire is grounded to the tongue. Then 2 ground wires go from the tongue to each frame rail. One from each frame rail to the fender mount where the clearance lights are mounted. And one from one of the frame rails to the rear crossmember. I did this about 7 years ago and converted to LED lights at the same time & not had any trouble with the trailer lights since (which was a yearly headache in salt water use). It does the job & is a lot easier than running a separate wire to each lamp.
 

roscoe

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Oct 30, 2002
Messages
21,739
I get it, but looks like multiple connections with potential for failure.

Why not just use a wiring harness that has a full run ground wire already in it?
 

airshot

Vice Admiral
Joined
Jul 22, 2008
Messages
5,085
The last couple wiring harnesses I have bought have an extra wire for running a continous ground wire. Seems the manufacturers are getting smarter....
 

dingbat

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Nov 20, 2001
Messages
16,081
I simply drill and tap the frame and install stainless grounding lugs as required.

The tapped connections ensures continuity to the frame.
 
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