How to Install: HitchMount LED Pod Reverse Kit

The HitchMount LED Pod Reverse Kit allows you to install one SSC1 or C1R LED Pod in your 2-inch trailer hitch receiver, adding a high-power reverse light, additional running light, and optional 4th brake light. 

The following installation guide will provide you with instructions on how to install the HitchMount LED Pod Reverse Kit on your vehicle. Check out our installation video, or continue reading for step-by-step instructions! 

Installation Video

Mounting Instructions

The C1R model includes a SafetyStrobe feature. This provides extra visibility by blinking the high-power red LED rapidly the first time the brakes are applied. If you would like to disable this feature, cut the purple wire on the included module, and the light will not blink when it is activated. To keep this feature, leave the purple wire connected.

Step 1 - Connect the Wire Harness.

Disconnect the plug on the back of the 7-pin trailer connector, by reaching up underneath the bumper. Depress the locking tabs and slide the connector off. Connect the provided wire harness in-line, by connecting one side to the original plug, and the other side to the back of the 7-pin connector (A).

NOTE: If your vehicle does not have a 7-pin trailer connector or the provided plug does not fit, you may proceed with the installation by tapping the wires on the included 7-Pin harness to your factory wires. To do so, remove one of the 7-Pin connectors on the included harness, so you are left with bare wire leads. Then tap the bare wires to your vehicle's factory signals (Brake Light, Running Light, Reverse Light, and Ground) using the table below. A multimeter may need to be used to determine which wires to tap.

Step 2 - Route the DT Connector.

Route the DT connector (B) through the back of the trailer hitch receiver, to the front. If your hitch receiver does not have an opening on the back, you may need to create an opening in order to run the wire through. This is not common or expected.

Step 3 - Connect HitchMount Pod to Harness.

Plug the DT connector (B) into your LED pod. Then, using the patent-pending HitchMount clip, simply push the light into the trailer hitch receiver until it snaps into place.

Step 4 - Test Function.

Test the function. Please note that, depending on the configuration and features of your vehicle, certain systems may be enabled or disabled as the vehicle recognizes the presence of a connection on the trailer harness. This is normal. It may be possible to change some of these operating conditions from your vehicle’s dash if desired. If the lamp itself does not illuminate when expected, please try turning the vehicle off and back on, then contact Diode Dynamics directly for assistance.

Step 5 - Wiretap Installation (Optional).

If you do not experience any issues in Step 4, skip this step and continue to Step 9.

If you experience an issue while testing the function of your C1R HitchMount LED Pod Light, such as flickering or trailer detection, you may use the included wiretap harness to tap into the factory brake light wire. 

Start by locating the red amp wire on the 7-pin wiring harness and disconnect it as shown in the red circle below.

Step 6 - Remove Plug Cover.

Remove the cover from the amp connector plug on the included wiretap harness.

Step 7 - Connect to Amp Wire on 7-Pin Harness.

Connect the uncovered amp plug of the wiretap harness into the amp plug receiver of the 7-pin connector harness that was disconnected in Step 5 as shown below.

Then place the plug cap removed in Step 6 on the loose amp connector of the 7-pin wiring harness and secure it out of the way.

Step 8 - Tap Factory Brake Light Wire.

Use the included T-Tap to tap into the factory brake light wire (circled in red below). Then connect the wiretap harness to the T-Tap.

Step 9 - Removing HitchMount.

To remove the HitchMount, depress the clips on either side and apply forward pressure to slide the lamp out of the receiver. Unplug the wire harness. If you plan to leave the harness disconnected for an extended period, unplug the harness from the 7-pin connector as well for safe storage.

Otherwise, simply tuck the DT connector out of the way until it is again needed.

Using a HitchMount with a Hitch Pin (Optional) 

The HitchMount has been designed to stay securely in place during use. If you would like to add a locking hitch pin for added security (not included), you may easily accomplish this with slight modification. This modification does not void any manufacturer warranty.

Watch the video below, or keep reading for instructions to perform the modification. 

Step 1 - Cut Out Retention Tabs.

Push the retention tab outward and use a cutting tool to cut out the circular section on the tab. Repeat on the other side.

Step 2 - Connect HitchMount Pod to Harness.

Plug the DT Connector into the pod, and slide the HitchMount into the trailer hitch receiver. 

Step 3 - Insert The Hitch Pin.

Slide the hitch pin into place with one hand, as you align the HitchMount with your other hand. It should be a tight fit, which will prevent rattling and movement once installed. Lock the pin if desired.

Questions About the Installation?

If you have any questions or issues installing the HitchMount LED Reverse Pod Kit, please contact us for further information.

Where Can I Buy The HitchMount LED Pod Reverse Kit?

If you're ready to upgrade your vehicle with the HitchMount LED Pod Reverse Kit, you can purchase one by clicking here or using our dealer locator to find a dealer near you.

Want to know more about Diode Dynamics products? Visit DiodeDynamics.com and subscribe to our newsletter for new product releases and more!

This Installation Guide is for the following SKUs: DD7420, DD7422, DD4145, DD4146