Has anyone just spliced wires?

Hey guys,
just a quick question..
Has anyone just spliced into the rear lights on an 09 base for trailer lights.
Yes I know curt has one for $45. It is for 8 foot trailers, with tail, and maybe two side running lights.
The tails on 09 are LED.
I don't know if the truck brake light is separate from the turn.
Anyone?
Thanks,
D.

 

No, you need a wiring adapter, such as this one:

http://www.etrailer.com/Custom-Fit-Vehicle-Wiring/Toyota/Tacoma/2010/118496.html?vehicleid=20107326

This is because the tacoma runs the brake lights on a separate circuit from the turn signals, but the trailer uses the same bulb for both functions.

If you "just splice it in" you'll get JUST brake lights or JUST turn signals - or you'll short out your wiring if you try to do both.

 

Depending on how many bulbs are on your trailer, you may need a beefier controller that also runs dedicated power from the battery.

 

Thanks for the quick replies guys..
Just not as simple as it used to be..
Damn, I sound old.
thanks again
D.

 

Thanks for the info, but the most this truck will tow is a ten foot trailer that has two tails, and maybe two running lights. I see your point about overloading the circuit, but it shouldn't be a problem in this case.
Thanks
D.

 

I don't get it. Why would these companies sell a plug in?

 

from the picture it is more than just a simple wire set. there are like 3 boxes on that harness. My bet would be there are capacitors in the box to prevent you from overdrawing the circuit. AND on top of that there is a FIRE WARNING on the trailer plug portion. It sucks but unlike the older trucks you have to be careful what you tap into now.

 

So, why is this circuit not in the tow package.....Hooked up the boat for the first time to the new Taco (2010) yesterday, and the disk brake solenoid was not activated??