I was wondering if anyone has rigged up a switch to turn on their backup lights without having to shift into reverse? I'm thinking the signal cable has to be up front somewhere and I'm hoping someone has already worked it out.

Thanks!

 

Why not add extra lights out the back that come on with reverse and put those on a switch. I think the canbus is involved with the setup you want to do and the factory backups are horrible anyways to see anything.

 

I don't have an answer as I haven't done this, but I'm sure it could be done. Is this to hook up a trailer in the dark?

 

I actually have auxiliary backup lights installed already. I used Rigid LED units which are powered directly off the factory backup light harness (with the factory bulbs removed). It was easy to do since they draw less power than the stock incandescent lamps.

However, I'm thinking that it would be nice to be able to turn them on when setting up camp which is why I'm trying to locate the factory power wire. I've heard rumors of a white white with a grey stripe on the passenger side that I'll look for tonight.

 

Warn makes wireless lights that are activated by a fob device. You could hook them up in the back and blind assholes who like to tailgate

 

I found the white wire with the grey stripe and it's the correct one. I cut it and ran both sides to a SPDT switch on the dash. I added 12v constant power and presto, backup lights on any time.

I wish I'd done this a long time ago! It was quick and easy.

 

What is the make and model switch?

 

I'm very interested in this as well because my rigid lights and my rear bumper are soon on the way and I'm thinking to get the electrical work done before hand. I'm hoping someone can answer this with maybe even the possibility of a wiring diagram. This is my thought...
I'm thinking of wiring the Rigids direct into the stock reverse circuit. Then maybe a relay to feed direct power for those times we need lighting on the fly. I'm thinking a diode on the 12v feed from the relay and another diode from each 12V feed being tapped into the reverse lights. This should resist reverse current flow back to any source, am I right and if so how do I determine the correct size of resistor?

 

The make and model of the switch? I have no idea. It's just a generic round rocker SPDT switch. Any SPDT switch that fits your mounting needs will do.

MFX: It sounds like you want to do exactly what I've just done. My Rigid LED lights are wired directly to the backup light wires behind the taillight housings. I removed the stock bulbs and the Rigid lights actually draw less power. Adding the switch like I've done allows you activate them on-demand. You don't need a diode to protect against reverse current flow because there is no reverse current flow. When you throw the switch you're disconnecting the backup light power line (post relay) from the vehicle's electrical system and powering the lights via the new source (in my case, the dash 12v outlet constant supply wires).

 

Maybe turn the jeep around and use your front head or fog lights??? Just an idea?
There you go, solved your problem....