Tailgate light strips are a great way to add some style and functionality to your truck. These LED strips not only light up your truck bed, but also indicate when you are stopping or turning. In this article, we will discuss the wiring diagram for installing a tailgate light strip, step-by-step.
What is a Tailgate Light Strip?
A tailgate light strip consists of multiple LED lights arranged in a strip. These LED lights are designed to be mounted on the tailgate of a truck. The strip functions as an indicator light system, indicating when the driver is applying brakes, turning, or reversing.
Tailgate light strips enhance the safety of your truck on the road. They are especially useful when driving in low light conditions, as they make your truck more visible to other drivers. These strips are also a great way to add personality and style to your vehicle.
Materials Required
Before you start installing your tailgate light strip, ensure that you have all the necessary materials. You will need:
| Materials | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tailgate light strip | 1 |
| Wire stripper | 1 |
| Electrical tape | 1 roll |
| Wire connectors | 2-3 |
| Zip ties | 5-6 |
Installation Procedure
Follow the steps below to install your tailgate light strip:
Step 1: Disconnect Your Truck’s Battery
Before starting the installation, it’s essential to disconnect your truck’s battery. This is to ensure your safety and prevent any electrical short-circuits.
Step 2: Strip the Wire Insulation
Using a wire stripper, strip the insulation off the wire that connects the tail lights to the truck’s electrical system. You will need to strip off about 1/2 an inch of insulation from each wire.
Step 3: Connect the Wires to the Tailgate Light Strip
Use wire connectors to connect the tailgate light strip wires to the truck’s wires. Ensure that you connect the correct wires. The black wire from the tailgate light strip should be connected to the truck’s wire with a black stripe, while the red wire should be connected to the wire with a gray stripe.
Step 4: Set Up the Ground Wire
Locate the grounding wire (usually black or green) in the truck’s electrical system. Strip off 1/2 inch of insulation and connect it to the tailgate light strip’s grounding wire.
Step 5: Mount the Tailgate Light Strip
Use zip ties to mount the tailgate light strip along the top of the tailgate. Ensure that it is well-secured and doesn’t move around during driving.
Step 6: Seal the Connections
Use electrical tape to seal the wire connections between the tailgate light strip and the truck’s electrical system. This is to provide insulation and prevent any electrical shorts.
FAQs
Q: Can I install a tailgate light strip myself?
A: Yes, you can install a tailgate light strip yourself. Follow the steps outlined in this article to do it.
Q: Do I need to disconnect my truck’s battery before installing the tailgate light strip?
A: Yes, it is essential to disconnect your truck’s battery before starting the installation. This is to ensure your safety and prevent any electrical short-circuits.
Q: Can I install a tailgate light strip on any type of truck?
A: Yes, you can install a tailgate light strip on any type of truck. Ensure that you have the correct materials and follow the installation steps correctly.
Q: How do I know if my tailgate light strip is installed correctly?
A: Once you have installed the tailgate light strip, test it by turning on your truck’s headlights, brake lights, and turn signals. Ensure that the tailgate light strip is functioning correctly and indicating the appropriate signals.
