If you’re like most truck or SUV owners, you’ve probably considered adding some extra lighting to your vehicle for off-road use. One popular option is ditch lights, which are mounted on the side mirrors and provide additional visibility when driving in low-light conditions. If you’re looking to install ditch lights on your vehicle, you’ll need to know how to wire them properly. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of wiring your ditch lights using a Cali Raised ditch light wiring diagram.
What Are Ditch Lights?
Ditch lights are auxiliary lights that are typically mounted on the side mirrors of a truck or SUV. They’re designed to provide additional lighting when driving off-road, particularly in low-light conditions. Ditch lights are particularly useful when driving on narrow trails, as they can help you see obstacles and avoid hazards.
Why Install Ditch Lights?
There are several reasons why you might choose to install ditch lights on your vehicle. Here are a few:
- Improved visibility: Ditch lights provide additional lighting that can help you see better when driving in low-light conditions. This can help you avoid hazards and see obstacles more clearly.
- Enhanced safety: With improved visibility comes enhanced safety. Ditch lights can help you avoid accidents and improve your overall driving experience.
- Aesthetic appeal: Ditch lights can give your vehicle a more rugged, off-road look. They’re a popular choice among truck and SUV owners who want to customize their vehicles.
How Do I Wire Ditch Lights?
Wiring ditch lights may seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually fairly simple if you follow the right steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before you get started, you’ll need to gather a few materials:
- Ditch lights
- Wire strippers
- Electrical tape
- Zip ties
- A Cali Raised ditch light wiring harness
- A Cali Raised switch
Step 2: Mount the Lights
Before you can wire your ditch lights, you’ll need to mount them on your vehicle. To do this, you’ll need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific type of ditch lights.
Step 3: Connect the Wiring Harness
The next step is to connect the wiring harness to your ditch lights. To do this, you’ll need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific harness. In general, you’ll need to strip the wires and connect them to the corresponding wires on the ditch lights using wire connectors.
Step 4: Connect the Switch
Once your wiring harness is connected to your ditch lights, you’ll need to connect it to your switch. To do this, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific switch. In general, you’ll need to connect the wiring harness wires to the corresponding wires on the switch using wire connectors.
Step 5: Test Your Lights
Once everything is wired up, it’s important to test your lights to make sure they’re working properly. Turn on your vehicle and test the switch to ensure that your ditch lights turn on and off as they should.
Cali Raised Ditch Light Wiring Diagram
To help you wire your ditch lights, Cali Raised has created a wiring diagram that you can use as a reference. Here’s what it looks like:
| Wire Color | Function | Wire Gauge |
|---|---|---|
| Red | Power | 16 AWG |
| Black | Ground | 16 AWG |
| Yellow | Switch Signal | 18 AWG |
Be sure to follow this diagram carefully when wiring your ditch lights.
FAQ
Q: Do I need to use a wiring harness to wire my ditch lights?
A: While it’s possible to wire your ditch lights without a harness, we recommend using one for safety and reliability purposes. A wiring harness ensures that your lights receive the proper voltage and protects against electrical shorts.
Q: Can I wire my ditch lights to my high beams?
A: We don’t recommend wiring your ditch lights to your high beams, as this can be illegal in some states and can blind other drivers on the road. Instead, wire them to a separate switch and only use them off-road.
Q: Can I install ditch lights on any vehicle?
A: Ditch lights can be installed on most trucks and SUVs, but it’s important to choose a mounting location that doesn’t interfere with the vehicle’s operation. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions and local regulations before installing ditch lights.
Q: Can I install ditch lights myself?
A: While it’s possible to install ditch lights yourself, we recommend consulting a professional if you’re not comfortable with electrical wiring or vehicle modifications.
Q: What’s the difference between spot and flood ditch lights?
A: Spot ditch lights provide a focused beam of light that’s useful for long-distance visibility, while flood lights provide a wider beam of light that’s useful for illuminating a larger area. Consider your off-road needs when choosing between spot and flood ditch lights.
