AMC Eagle Den Forum

General => Member Specialties => Electrical => Topic started by: WoodenBirdOfPrey on December 03, 2011, 05:56:57 PM

Title: Checking interest - trailer wiring
Post by: WoodenBirdOfPrey on December 03, 2011, 05:56:57 PM
I saw a few posts while browsing through the site about the troubles a few members had hooking up a trailer wiring harness because the Eagles use a 3 light setup which leaves no way to easily hook up both the brake lights and turn signals.  I'm one of the lucky ones that have a tow package, so I don't have this problem with my Eagle.

I'm in no way an engineer, but I am an electronic tech and enjoy challenges like this.  If anyone is interested in getting a trailer plug wired up to the Eagle the "right way" instead of having to use an additional set of lights and a second plug, I can draw up a diagram and post the idea I have for it.  There's nothing real complicated with it, and all the parts needed could be purchased with a trip to Radio Shack and maybe an auto parts store.
Title: Re: Checking interest - trailer wiring
Post by: eaglefreek on December 03, 2011, 06:24:27 PM
Would it be easier than using a trailer light converter? http://www.summitracing.com/parts/CHT-55130
Title: Re: Checking interest - trailer wiring
Post by: WoodenBirdOfPrey on December 03, 2011, 06:40:41 PM
Nope, my method would involve more work because it would be using 4 individual diodes, so there would be soldering onto the leads, insulating the wires, securing the diodes so they don't get ripped off, etc.  I'm willing to bet that's all the converter box is, just 4 diodes put into a convenient package with color coded wiring.  My method would just be about 10 bucks cheaper, but even I would use the converter box you posted if I needed to wire up a harness.  I just didn't know they existed.  I figured if there was a solution that simple and readily available we wouldn't have had members rigging things up with additional lights and wiring on the trailer.

That's one of the reasons I was checking interest.  There's no reason for me to put the work in if there's already easier solutions. 

I had 2 ideas, and the second one would be far more complicated because it would involve several relays, running a constant power wire to the fuse panel, and the 4 diodes.  The benefit to the more complicated method is it wouldn't put additional strain on the already weak factory wiring, and won't affect the flasher speed.  It would be the same concept as the factory tow package setup.
Title: Re: Checking interest - trailer wiring
Post by: bigdog56e on December 04, 2011, 01:43:16 PM
  I used a NAPA converter on my Eagle, easy to wire up and works fine.
                                                                                          Eddie ;)