Trailer Light Kits - Incandescent

Why Incandescent Trailer Light Kits Still Matter

Every trailer on public roads is required by law to display properly functioning lighting — stop lights, tail lights, turn signals, side markers, and reflectors. A quality incandescent trailer light kit bundles everything you need into a single, convenient package, making it the go-to solution whether you're restoring an older trailer's wiring system, replacing storm-damaged lights, or outfitting a new utility build from scratch. Incandescent kits remain popular for their low upfront cost, simple bulb-replacement maintenance, and broad compatibility with traditional trailer wiring harnesses.

What's Typically Included in a Trailer Light Kit

A complete incandescent trailer light kit generally covers the full range of DOT-required lighting functions for the rear of a trailer. Expect to find a pair of combination stop/tail/turn light assemblies, side marker lights, a wiring harness sized for your trailer length, a license plate bracket, and mounting hardware. Kits are commonly offered in two configurations: under-80-inch versions designed for smaller utility, lawn, or personal watercraft trailers, and over-80-inch versions that add rear clearance lighting to meet federal standards for wider loads.

Key Considerations When Shopping

• Trailer Width: Federal DOT regulations require different lighting configurations for trailers under vs. over 80 inches wide — confirm your trailer's width before purchasing.
• Submersibility: Boat and marine trailer lights will be repeatedly submerged when launching. Look for sealed, waterproof housings rated for submersion if you're trailering watercraft.
• Harness Length: Match the harness to your trailer's length. Most kits specify a 20- or 25-foot harness; longer trailers may need extension wiring.
• Connector Type: Common trailer connectors include 4-flat and 5-flat plugs. Verify compatibility with your tow vehicle's plug before buying.
• Bulb Accessibility: One advantage of incandescent systems is that individual bulbs can be swapped quickly at any auto parts or hardware store — a practical benefit for frequent towers on long hauls.

Top Brands in Incandescent Trailer Light Kits

Optronics is one of the most recognized names in trailer lighting. Founded in 1972, Optronics has built its reputation as a leading manufacturer of vehicular safety lighting for the OEM, automotive, and marine markets, operating testing and distribution facilities across North America. Their incandescent kits are engineered to meet FMVSS 108 compliance standards and are designed with sealed construction to handle demanding road and weather conditions.

Anderson Manufacturing — through its Peterson Manufacturing heritage — brings decades of expertise to trailer lighting. A family-owned innovator in safety lighting systems, Anderson has been building quality trailer lights for over 70 years, offering kits in both incandescent and LED configurations with submersible designs well-suited to marine and utility trailers. Their complete kits include tail lights, side markers, harness, license bracket, mounting hardware, and installation instructions, making them a practical all-in-one choice for trailering enthusiasts.