Trailer Light BarBy Mike FahleAfter years of problems with trailer wiring, I made a light "bar" for putting the lights on any boat (or other load) that I am hauling on any trailer. I have eliminated wiring and/or lighting problems completely with this approach and it allows me to use any trailer without concern about the lights. My latest one uses rectangular vinyl downspout stock which is inexpensive, easy to obtain, easy to work with, is lightweight, is non-marring, and is maintenance free. I used submersible lights so that I do not even need to be concerned about a torrential downpour while trailering. It has the added benefit of putting the lights higher and further back (across the tiller arms) to increase their visibility to motorists behind. I have three marker lights and reflective tape in the middle so that it is legal and clear that a wide load is ahead. I taped the ends closed with wide, white, cloth tape so that the spiders have no way to make this there home inside. It is easy to wrap the long lead wires together with electrical tape or put them inside the lightweight plastic tubing designed for this purpose and available at most auto parts stores. I wrap the wires around the bar when not in use and use two pieces of shock cord to tie them down - the shock cord is used to tie the bar to the tillers near the rudders when the bar is in use. The whole thing is easily stored safely in the cat box while sailing. I have used this on many trailers with different loads and it works great - just be prepared to lend it to others after they see it in use! Mike Fahle |
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