Changing out a pigtail on a light is a simple job you can do to save you and your trailer trip to the service shop.

The light on your semi-trailer is not working. Unfortunately, replacing the light didn’t fix the problem, so you have determined the pigtail needs replaced.

Tools Needed

  • A small torch.
  • Wire stripper.
  • Wire crimps.
  • And, possibly a flathead screwdriver and a drill for lights with screws, or rivets.

Types of semi-trailer lights:

  • Standard semi-trailer lights have a rubber grommet and can be popped out with a screwdriver.
  • Lights secured with screws.
  • Lights secured with rivets.

STEP 1:

Remove the light.

Before you can get to the pigtail, remove the light.
The pigtail will be plugged into the back of the light.

STEP 2:

Free the pigtail from the light.

Using your wire cutters, cut each wire to free the pigtail from the light.
Note: The color of the wires on the new pigtail might not match the colors of the wires on the trailer side. So, look on the back of the light to see the labels that indicate; Ground, Tail (Marker), Stop & Turn. Then follow the wire from the pin in the plug and make sure they’re lined up accordingly.

STEP 3:

Strip the wires.

Strip the outer jacket to expose the bare wires.

STEP 4:

Install butt connectors.

Slide the butt connector over the exposed wire until it stops.
Then, using the wire crimpers, firmly crimp the center of the butt connectors tightly around the exposed wire.
Using a small torch, run the torch or over each end of the butt connector to shrink around the wire

STEP 5:

Connect the light.

Connect the light. Plug the light in, and put it back into place.

Grommet lights: Tuck the wires back in and push the light in until it sits firmly inside the grommet.
Lights with screws: Replace the screws and tighten them, being sure not to pinch the wires between the light and bracket.
Lights with rivets: Be sure the old rivets are completely drilled out before installing new ones.

It’s just that easy!

how-to-replace-a-mud-flap-on-a-semi-trailer-larry-anders-tip

I’m Larry Anders.

Check back again for another Tech Tip Tuesday.

Shop Parts

Over 24k Parts OEM and Aftermarket

Shop Trailer Inventory

New and Used

Don’t Miss Out On Deals!

utility-keystone-trailer-sales-mobile-app-download

DOWNLOAD THE UTILITY KEYSTONE TRAILER SALES MOBILE APP FOR EXCLUSIVE SPECIALS!

apple-store-utility-keystone-app-download(1)
google-play-utility-keytone-mobile-app-download-1
utility-keystone-qr-code

Watch More Semi-Trailer DIY Videos

Watch Semi-Trailer Parts Spotlight Videos

Replacing a Semi-Trailer Hubcap

By |September 1, 2022|Categories: DIY Semi-Trailer Repair, DIY Semi-Trailer Repair, How to Buy the Best Semi-Trailer Parts, Parts Post, Semi-Trailer Parts Showroom Spotlight Posts, videos|

Replacing a [...]

Comments Off on Replacing a Semi-Trailer Hubcap

Replace a Hubcap on a Semi-Trailer

By |September 1, 2022|Categories: DIY Semi-Trailer Repair, How to Buy the Best Semi-Trailer Parts, Parts Post, Semi-Trailer Blog, Semi-Trailer Parts Showroom Spotlight Posts|

Learn how to replace a hubcap on a semi-trailer [...]

Comments Off on Replace a Hubcap on a Semi-Trailer

Trailer Floor-Roof-Sidewall Repair

By |August 29, 2022|Categories: DIY Semi-Trailer Repair, DIY Semi-Trailer Repair, How to Buy the Best Semi-Trailer Parts, Parts Post, Semi-Trailer Parts Showroom Spotlight Posts, videos|

Trailer Floor-Roof-Sidewall [...]

Comments Off on Trailer Floor-Roof-Sidewall Repair
Go to Top