Crunch goes my tail light assembly...

[jerseygeorge]

So.. after 5 years of towing my 20' boat with no issues at all I hooked up a small Winnegabo, single axel. First trip out, displaying my excellent backing up skills, I was going into a tight spot and heard a crunch. The tool box on the trailer contacted the drivers side rear light lens assembly... and destroyed it.

The boat has a long tongue, and the bow on the boat far back and high. The location of this tool box is really limiting.

I am wondering how to prevent this again, and also wondering how expensive a replacement to get. Has anyone heard of a "limiter", like bumpers that stop your turn angle before damage to vehicle? Is there a bell or buzzer on a limit switch when you back too sharply that alerts you?

I was bummed because this can easily happen again with this rig.

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[RedSled]

So I don’t suppose a backup camera can see that right?

 

[jerseygeorge]

So I don’t suppose a backup camera can see that right?

I don't think so, but as with all trailer backing up to a boat ramp, into a parking spot, etc. my head is out the window looking backwards. Or at the least looking in the rear view mirrors.

 

[jerseygeorge]

The trailer has a 12v system, battery right in the box. Be so easy to rig a left right limit switch and a horn. Back up to sharp and get a loud beep. Even I could wire that one up! I just wonder if someone else has solved this issue already.

 

[flyrv9]

The easiest solution is to use a spotter when backing up. Should be able to find a tail light assy at a wreaking yard. Failing that, check out Camelback Toyota in Phoenix. They have a good on-line parts business and was helpful when I had to order parts for my 2000 Tundra.

You could build an alarm using a switch, rod, battery and buzzer. Attach it to the top of your toolbox (with a magnet or whatever). When the tail light gets close it pushes on the rod which closes the switch and sets off the buzzer alerting you to stop. Make it so it can be moved to either side.

 

[chrisridebike8]

sorry to see this happen. tail light replacement should be cheap. check marketplace for used ones. there are tons of people getting rid of the stock ones for aftermarket. the 2014+ ones should fit too if you want to go that route (I personally hate all the chrome on them and prefer the older tail lights).

 

[DAW89446]

LKQ new and used parts.

 

[nglayton]

Good news is, that it's super easy to replace. Like less than an hour for sure.


I think the whole assembly is about $150'ish.

Bad news is ---> now is the time to upgrade to something more stylish and you have to buy both sides to match, double the cost.

 

[jerseygeorge]

Good news is, that it's super easy to replace. Like less than an hour for sure.


I think the whole assembly is about $150'ish.

Bad news is ---> now is the time to upgrade to something more stylish and you have to buy both sides to match, double the cost.

LOL! I have 10 years on this 4Runner, and if they come out with a hybrid like the Sequoia and Tundra... I'll be all over that. So I am hoping to just get 1-2 more years out of this vehicle. So.. no fancy stuff for me. But you are right, factory part, $150 from Conicelli in Norristown PA. I have done very well ordering parts from them.