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jenmurray12 · 06-24-2016, 04:25 PM

I have a '66 vintage cardinal lovebird.. 10ft... Needs complete overhaul to include electrical.. I need some serious help... I don't know where to start.. Do I buy a universal trailer wiring kit?? Any suggestions??? Currently has no functional wiring... has two light fixtures inside, and only an ice box.. if that helps...

BFlinn181 · 06-24-2016, 05:35 PM

If you purchase a converter/charger to charge the batteries and power the 12 v systems when on shore power it might have a fuse panel integrated in it for house functions. You need circuits for the lights, water pump, furnace, CO and LP detector, among others.

The lights for towing the trailer are usually wired directly to the umbilical cord connecting to the tow vehicle. The wiring harness for that should have a separate fuse panel for it. You'll need brake, turn signals, tail and clearance lights for that circuit. It the trailer has electric brakes, you might have a separate 12 v battery, charged by a pin in the umbilical cord, for break-a-way braking in case the trailer becomes loose from the tow vehicle.

TQ60 · 06-24-2016, 09:50 PM

Places like mid - term in Fresno sell just about everything to do wiring so things like fuse distribution blocks connectors and wire.

Also check out books or Google electrical wiring for autos and homes to see how both 12 and 120 volt systems are wired.

Assume old wire is brittle and connections not good.

ahicks · 06-25-2016, 07:07 AM

If I were you, I'd sit down and figure out just exactly what it is that I want the trailer to do when done. Like, do you just need running lights and stop/turn only, or are there some things that you'd like to see on the inside of the trailer as well (lights, furnace, fans, etc.)?

Once you have that figured out, as specifically as you can, THEN proceed with your wiring needs. Start at the front with the plug that connects to the tow vehicle, and work your way back.

bap · 06-25-2016, 07:31 AM

also do you plan on using it off grid or will you be hooking up straight to shore power ,,if you plan on just using it on shore power no need for converters or anything ..just run a new shore cord to a new box then wire up your outlets,lights and a 110 fridge if you want,,,easy simple ...----build it to suit your needs,,,

best of luck with your build,,,and yes welcome to irv2,,,---alot of great people here,,eager to help....
....jeff