Choosing the right submersible boat trailer lights kit is crucial for safety and legal compliance. This guide will delve into the essential aspects of selecting, installing, and maintaining these vital components for your boating adventures. We'll cover everything from understanding different types of submersible lights to troubleshooting common issues, ensuring you're fully equipped to navigate the waters safely and legally.
What is a Submersible Boat Trailer Lights Kit?
A submersible boat trailer lights kit includes all the necessary components to illuminate your boat trailer, ensuring visibility, especially during nighttime towing. Unlike standard trailer lights, submersible kits are designed to withstand submersion, protecting the internal circuitry from water damage, even during accidental submersion. This is a critical safety feature, preventing electrical shorts and ensuring continued functionality even after encountering puddles or submerged sections of roadways. The kit typically consists of:
- Submersible tail lights: These are the main lights showing brake, turn, and running signals.
- Submersible license plate light: Illuminates the license plate for easy readability.
- Wiring harness: Connects all lights and plugs into the vehicle's towing system.
- Mounting hardware: Brackets and screws to securely attach the lights to the trailer.
What are the different types of submersible boat trailer lights?
Several types of submersible boat trailer lights exist, each with unique features and benefits.
- LED Submersible Lights: These are increasingly popular due to their long lifespan, low energy consumption, and bright illumination. LEDs are also more resistant to vibrations and shocks than incandescent bulbs.
- Incandescent Submersible Lights: Although less common now, incandescent submersible lights were once the standard. They offer relatively inexpensive initial cost, but have shorter lifespans and higher energy consumption compared to LEDs.
The choice between LED and incandescent depends largely on budget and longevity preferences. LED lights represent a worthwhile long-term investment due to their extended lifespan and reduced energy use.
How to choose the right submersible boat trailer lights kit?
Selecting the right kit involves considering several key factors:
- Number of lights: Ensure the kit includes all the required lights for your trailer (tail lights, turn signals, brake lights, and license plate light).
- Light intensity: Brighter lights are essential for optimal visibility, particularly in low-light conditions. LED lights generally offer superior brightness.
- Durability and water resistance: Look for kits explicitly labeled as submersible and rated for adequate water resistance. Check the IP rating (Ingress Protection rating); a higher IP rating indicates greater protection against water ingress.
- Wiring harness length: Ensure the harness is long enough to reach from the lights to your vehicle's tow connector without creating strain.
- Compliance with regulations: Verify that the kit meets all relevant safety and lighting regulations in your area.
How to install a submersible boat trailer lights kit?
Proper installation is crucial for optimal function and safety. While specific instructions vary depending on the kit, the general process typically involves:
- Mounting the lights: Securely attach the lights to your trailer using the provided mounting hardware.
- Connecting the wires: Carefully connect the wires according to the kit's instructions, ensuring all connections are secure and waterproof.
- Testing the lights: Thoroughly test all lights to confirm proper functionality.
- Securing the wiring harness: Protect the wiring harness from damage using cable ties or other appropriate methods.
How to maintain a submersible boat trailer lights kit?
Regular maintenance will prolong the life of your lights and ensure continued functionality:
- Regular inspection: Periodically inspect the lights and wiring for any signs of damage or loose connections.
- Cleaning: Gently clean the lenses to remove dirt and debris.
- Replacing damaged components: Replace any damaged bulbs or components promptly.
What are the common problems with submersible boat trailer lights?
Common issues include:
- Burnt-out bulbs: Replace promptly with bulbs of the correct type and wattage.
- Loose connections: Tighten any loose wires or connections.
- Damaged wiring: Repair or replace damaged wiring as needed.
- Water ingress: If water gets inside the light housing, replace the light unit.
Are submersible boat trailer lights waterproof?
While marketed as "submersible," it's important to remember that no light is entirely waterproof indefinitely. Regular inspection and maintenance are key to preventing water damage. The IP rating provides a guideline for the level of water resistance. Prolonged submersion or significant impact could still lead to damage.
How long do submersible boat trailer lights last?
The lifespan depends heavily on the type of light (LED vs. incandescent) and the quality of the components. LED lights generally have a much longer lifespan (often 50,000 hours or more) than incandescent lights.
By carefully selecting and maintaining your submersible boat trailer lights kit, you ensure your safety and legal compliance when towing your boat. Remember, proper lighting is crucial for safe navigation on the road, especially during nighttime towing.
