Fix and install Backup lights

So the backup lights have never worked, no idea why. So it was finally dark enough to warrant fixing them. Backing up twisty FS roads in the dusk the previous weekend reminded me….

I had checked the fuses but its a complicated mess. Three fuses, two inside, one under the hood, one relay, the transmission selector switch and the added wring of the box, and tow harness… So I started at the junction box where all the lights connect in the back under the box, everything looked good. Traced the wiring all the way back to the transmission, all looked good. Range switch seemed fine and adjusted correctly. So I went back to fuses again….. There it was, one fuse turned sideways, I was checking the wring one. But new fuse in pace and all better!

But I had decided to add more reverse light. A cheap 20″ light bar should work well. I tied it to the trailer wiring so as not to overload the factory reverse circuit.

A couple of rivnuts in the aluminum plates above the back bumper and I have a spot to mount a light. This was my first use of rivnuts, super handy! They work like a rivet but leave a threaded inset.

Rivnut installed.

A couple of stainless 1/4-20 bolts and the bar is installed.

Light bar mounted.

 

Lights work!

All done!

3 Replies to “Fix and install Backup lights”

  1. Nice work. That sweet bumper will protect it from being killed too. I’ve thought about doing that exact same thing on our pathetically under-lit RV. Backing that thing up in the dark is impossible without people on the ground watching and directing me.

    I’m enjoying your blog and your build.

    1. Thank you! I was in the same boat, no backup camera so mirrors only, and it was dark. This helps immensely.

      I do like the bumper, the long term plan is to cut it off, and move it up 6-8″ for a better departure angle.

  2. Nice work. I’m just commenting so I can get on the email notification list for future posts.

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