Question about toad diode wiring

[tommy_g]

I presently use magnetic tow lights and have for years. I'm thinking about diode wiring to the toad's tail and brake lights and a question to myself arose. I understand how a diode works on dc power(one way current flow only). My question of concern is about the output to the brake lights when I make a short stop that causes the Brake Buddy to activate. Since this would cause 12v to be applied from two different power sources(moho and toad) to the brake lights at the same time, would it just act like parallel batteries or could there be a problem?

[Bumpyroad]

w4phj wrote:
I elected to install separate sockets and bulbs which plug into the MH 7 pin outlet. Now there can be no warranty or feedback issues. This project took about an hour. The hard part was threading the harness thru the Jeep frame rails.

sounds like a better plan to me.
I wouldn't mess with factory wiring myself.
bumpy

[w4phj]

I elected to install separate sockets and bulbs which plug into the MH 7 pin outlet. Now there can be no warranty or feedback issues. This project took about an hour. The hard part was threading the harness thru the Jeep frame rails.

[jerseyjim]

In 2007-2011, my Chevy HHR (Toad) had the diode kit installed. Never a problem.

Using my 2011 Ford Ranger as a toad, my RV mechanic cautioned against using any diode setup "in some of these newer cars"....sometimes the diode system sends a false problem message to the computer and the "check engine" light comes on.

Yes? No? So, I went with the magnetic lights...again, never a problem. The RV dealer could have made some bucks selling and installing the diode set, but chose not to.

So...my experience, either system works fine...depends on the vehicle.

[Beverley_Ken]

No problem with the diodes, but may be cheaper and easier to install
separate bulbs and sockets. Your Accord appears to be the same vintage as our previous car, (03-05). I just put the bulb and sockets in the blank light housing in the trunk lid. Did not touch the Honda wiring at all. You have to run the wiring from the front (MH connection) to the trunk anyway. When we got the CRV, did the same thing with a blank taillight section.

Ken

[YC_1]

Diodes add many more connections and potential bad connections. Water intrusion can be an issue too.

If the brake device is sensitive to input voltage it could be fooled by the tiniest of voltage leak and either stay locked up or worse, some can lock up while you are driving the toad.

I highly recommend using separate bulbs which are easy enough to install or stick with your magnetic setup. Another option if you have a tow hitch on the toad it so to use a tow bar with or without a tow ball and then connect a cross bar to hold lights on each end. The light bar can be removed easily. I often just leave mine in place. The tow ball is still available if needed.

[K_Charles]

In my opinion, the diodes would be a lot easier then the magnetic lights. Once installed when you plug in your done.

[tommy_g]

Thanks!!! That's what I thought. Now I've gotta figure out another reason to tell DW it won't work.

[talotto]

Parallel 12V DC, just like a battery. The bulb gets 12V, its internal resistance limits current flow. No problem at all.