Wiring suggestions for docking lights

[Roll]

I have a switch that fits my panel and is a duplicate for the switch for the map lights in the coach, which I plan to use for the docking lights on-off switch.

I purchased four low profile Oval LED lights that are painted and ready to install at the wheel wells where I see most docking lights fit.

What I don't have is a good plan or schematic for wiring these lights. I understand I should not wire them directly to the battery, (through the switch) but rather I need to protect the circuit with a breaker or fuse.

Other complications are that these switches have a number of connection posts I will have to figure out. Two posts are certain to be for the two lights built into the switch; one for illumination when the dash lights are on and the other to indicate the switch (docking lights) are turned on, but I don't know the function of all the rest.

Thanks for any help,

Roll

[Skip426]

For some reason my wiring schematic , doesn't show my docking light switch. But you may have to consider, the possibility, the switch may have an internal relay, so the lights are only on in reverse.
Is there a band name on the switch ?
Could be you'll have to track down wiring diagram from the supplier.

[Roll]

Originally Posted by Skip426

For some reason my wiring schematic , doesn't show my docking light switch. But you may have to consider, the possibility, the switch may have an internal relay, so the lights are only on in reverse.
Is there a band name on the switch ?
Could be you'll have to track down wiring diagram from the supplier.

The switch is OE for Coachmen for driving lights and map lights. I think it is used for both those applications. Coachmen does not offer docking lights so there will be no schematic from them. Otherwise I have collected parts from various sources for this, it is not a kit and so thus no prepared schematic.

I don't know why, however, I could not mirror another schematic for docking lights provided it was straight forward and not proprietary.

I thought someone might know of or have a schematic I might review for a general plan.

Roll

[vsheetz]

Docking lights? New term to me.
Where on a coach and what functionality do there provide?

[Ray,IN]

Winnebago uses docking lights on some models. They only work in reverse or when the key is off. Go to the Winnebago forum board and open the proper sticky at page top for wiring schematics. It's not for your make but might offer some insights for DIY docking light wiring.
My MH has both, docking lights above rear wheels, and floodlights atop the rear cap, for parking at night. The halogen lamps/docking lights replacement bulbs for my MH are sold by big-box hardware stores like Lowes, Menards, Home Depot, etc.
Naturally I never intend to arrive after dark, but, the best laid plans____you know the rest; so I keep them all working.

[Roll]

Originally Posted by vsheetz

Docking lights? New term to me.
Where on a coach and what functionality do there provide?

Usually, but not always, found mounted on the body near the wheels and are used to light up the area around the coach when setting up after dark. I'll post a pic of a Newmar where you can see the oval lights by the wheels.

There are other types, probably more effective, that point down and back. Monaco uses these frequently at the rear wheels.

1st pic. Side of a Allegro Bus with the docking lights circled in red. Newmar used the same lights and locations, as did a number of coach manufacturers.

2nd pic, This is one example of using a sealed beam that points back and slightly down. You are looking at the curb side, rear wheel, of a Holiday Rambler about 2007 vintage.