Best backup lights for plowing on a 1500 Chevy truck

best backup lights for plowing
Photo courtesy Michaela Pereckas via flickr. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

I have been upgrading my snowplow setup. I have front facing lights but have decided to add some high intensity backup lights on my truck. Good warning lights are essential.

Find the best backup lights for plowing for the money on Amazon.

Chelhead Hitch Lights, 2PCS 3 inch Combo Backup Lights for Trucks with 2.5 inch Tow Hitch Mounting and Wiring Harness as Reverse Lights Compatible with Trucks SUV Pickup Tralier
  • MOUNT IT YOUR WAY: Coming with 2.5 inch hitch accessories and 12ft dual wiring harness, take 10 minutes to install them.The adjustable mounting bracket of pod lights allows you to adjust the led driving light by what you like, making changing direction of light beam easier
  • SUPER BRIGHT: 48W 4608LM 2X2 pod lights can emits 150°wide flood light and 30°spot beam with 6000K white rays,illuminate the entire forward viewing area, giving greater visibility without eye fatigue,perfect to be backup lights for trucks
  • WIDE APPLICATION: Design for most trucks, SUVs, trailers or RVs with 2.5" towing hitch, come with 3" 48W LED POD lights to function as backup lights for trucks, hitch reverse lights,plow lights for trucks
  • DURABLE DESIGN: Die-cast aluminum alloy housing with built-in oversized heat-sink which keep the temperature down and allow the LED's to run cooler and longer lifespan,Higher light transmission rate polycarbonate lenses - reduce optical loss, extends the life span of tow hitch lights to over 50,000 hours and waterproof(IP67)
  • PACKING & WARRANTY 2PCS 3 inch Led Pod Lights +1PC 2.5 inch Hitch Accessories + 1 PC 12ft Wiring Harness. We offer you a 12 months full warranty as well as lifetime customer support and excellent after-sale service

Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

What is the best spot for a backup light?

Backup lights can be added to the receiver hitch. You may even consider wiring additional reverse lights on your headache back rack.

Auxiliary backup lights for trucks

I added these receiver hitch lights to my 1500 Silverado for plowing snow. The truck does good, but I wanted LED lighting in the rear. The lights work well.

My Silverado isn’t my only plow vehicle. I have a small John Deere 112 garden tractor for plowing, as well.

The John Deere tractor does sidewalks just fine. Some days I use it for the driveway. I want good LED lights on it. I want to be seen when plowing near the driveway.

Best led strobe lights for plowing?

My thought: What about colored lights? Can plow trucks have blue lights? What color lights do plow equipment use? Why do snowplows have green lights?

SaleBestseller No. 1
ASPL [Upgraded 5] 48LED Roof Top Strobe Lights, High Visibility Emergency Safety Warning LED Mini Strobe Light bar with Magnetic Base for 12-24V Snow Plow, Trucks, Construction Vehicles (Amber/White)
  • UPGRADED -- ASPL Roof top strobe light bar use 48 high-intensity LED chips with magnifying lens to maximize light output and ensure more effective warning to other vehicles. At the same time upgrade the material, waterproof performance, cable length, magnet. Make the light not only bright, but also more durable.
  • EASY TO INSTALL -- 2 x 7 strong magnets with larger thick rubber suction cups, more stable than other 2 x 5 magnets. Very quick to mount without hurting the roof of your vehicles, as well as adding strength on attachment. 16.4 ft heavy duty cable and 12-24V plug and play, long enough to install the light anywhere of the vehicle.
  • FLASH PATTERN -- Double switch buttons setting, 16 Patterns to choose from. You can switch ON/OFF or select the flashing mode conveniently at the cigarette lighter plug buttons. Last used pattern recall/memory function.
  • HIGH PERFORMANCE -- Integrated heatsink, and anti-condensation drain port, good improved the problem of water vapor condensation inside the light. Completely Waterproofed, Strong fog penetrability and dust-proof and corrosion resistant.Lifespan up to 50,000 Hours.
  • SERVICE -- If any questions, please feel free to contact us by email.And we offer 2 YEARS warranty.If it is defective, we will full refund to you Or send new lights.
Bestseller No. 2
ASPL 8pcs Sync Feature Ultra Slim 12-LED Surface Mount Flashing Strobe Lights for Truck Car Vehicle LED Mini Grille Light Head Emergency Beacon Hazard Warning lights (Amber/White)
  • 【SUPER VISIBILITY】ASPL 8Pcs 12LED Surface Mount Strobe Lights, each light has a total of 12 high-intensity Led chips. Use aluminum alloy housing + ABS magnifying lens for maximum brightness to ensure more effective warning to other vehicles. These strobe lights can be seen from hundreds of feet away.
  • 【HIGH QUALITY】These lights can withstand harsh weather conditions, waterproof with IP67 and over 50,000 hours life span because of the better production process. Great to use in rain, fog, dust and snow, moisture-proof and vibration-proof, escorting your driving.
  • 【ADDED AYNC WIRE】Upgraded the synchronization function. If sync is required, just connect white wires of all lights together. RED --- +VDC. BLACK --- To Chassis Ground. YELLOW --- Pattern Selection. Yellow wire touches black for less than 1s to the next mode.
  • 【EASY TO INSTALL】Ultra-thin design is easy to install. Supplied with gaskets and screws to mount it to the grille or bumper. Universal for 12-24V all vehicles and can be installed in every position of vehicle.
  • 【26 FLASHING MODES】Built in flasher, and the last used pattern recall/memory function. 26 select-able flashing patterns, including Steady on, Single flash, Double flash, etc.
Bestseller No. 3
Xprite 12" Rooftop Strobe Light, High Bright LED Emergency Flashing Beacon Light w/Magnetic Mount for 12V-24V Construction Vehicles, Truck, Snow Plow, Postal Car (Amber White)
  • FEATURES - The amber white led roof top strobe light bar has a total of 72 high-intensity Led chip. Visible in day and night and great for emergency cars and trucks, construction vehicles, safety, security, snowplow, postal and city service workers, tractor, etc.
  • HIGH QUALITY - Made of durable ABS housing, crystal clear housing for max brightness, scratch resistant PC lens. IP66 Waterproof Rate. Able to withstand harsh weather conditions. Over 50,000 hour lifespan.
  • POWERFUL MAGNETIC BASE FOR EASY INSTALL - 2 pods with a total of 12 magnets, with protective rubber feet. Place on any vehicle metal rooftop. 10FT straight power cable.
  • 15 STROBE FLASH PATTERNS - 12V cigarrette plug with convenient dual switch design. 1 for easy power on/off. 2nd to change between 15 different flash modes, includes last pattern memory recall. Patterns include Rotating, Flashing, Alternating Between Left and Right Side, etc. These modes are sure to provide caution to potential upcoming hazards.
  • YOUR AFTER-SALES SERVICE - If you are not satisfied with this strobe beacon light, please feel free to contact us by email. Simply return it for a full refund or replacement. 2 YEAR WARRANTY!
Bestseller No. 4
ASPL 2pcs 48LED Roof Top Strobe Lights, High Visibility Emergency Safety Warning LED Mini Strobe Light bar with Magnetic Base for 12-24V Snow Plow, Trucks, Construction Vehicles (Amber/White)
  • UPGRADED -- ASPL Roof top strobe light bar use 48 high-intensity LED chips with magnifying lens to maximize light output and ensure more effective warning to other vehicles. At the same time upgrade the material, waterproof performance, cable length, magnet. Make the light not only bright, but also more durable.
  • EASY TO INSTALL -- 2 x 7 strong magnets with larger thick rubber suction cups, more stable than other 2 x 5 magnets. Very quick to mount without hurting the roof of your vehicles, as well as adding strength on attachment. 16.4 ft heavy duty cable and 12-24V plug and play, long enough to install the light anywhere of the vehicle.
  • FLASH PATTERN -- Double switch buttons setting, 16 Patterns to choose from. You can switch ON/OFF or select the flashing mode conveniently at the cigarette lighter plug buttons. Last used pattern recall/memory function.
  • HIGH PERFORMANCE -- Integrated heatsink, and anti-condensation drain port, good improved the problem of water vapor condensation inside the light. Completely Waterproofed, Strong fog penetrability and dust-proof and corrosion resistant.Lifespan up to 50,000 Hours.
  • SERVICE -- If any questions, please feel free to contact us by email.And we offer 2 YEARS warranty.If it is defective, we will full refund to you Or send new lights.
Bestseller No. 5
LINKITOM LED Strobe Light, 12V-24V Amber 40 LED Warning Safety Flashing Beacon Lights with Magnetic and 16 ft Straight Cord for Vehicle Forklift Truck Tractor Golf Carts UTV Car Bus
  • Super bright beacon light: 40 super bright LEDs with with Durable PC Lens, 360 degrees of coverage. keep security in fog, rain or snow and other low visibility area
  • Easy Installation: comes with strong magnets at the bottom of the case housing (Test go up to 60mph but not fall off) and 12V-24V switch plug. Just need attach the strong magnets on any metal exterior of cars and plug the switch plug.
  • Flash Patterns: 7 different flash patterns with a independent switch to cycle through modes. Memorizes last pattern used (recall last pattern)
  • Panel Dimensisons: 5" (W) x 3.4" (D) x 3.7" (H) / Cable length: Straight 16 FT with on/off power and independent control switch, plug and play / Up to 50,000hours lifespan expectancy.
  • Compatible with all those vehicles equipped with a 12-24V power socket. Great for emergency vehicles, postal service, construction vehicle, Truck Vehicle, Forklift, Tractor, Golf Carts, UTV Car, School Bus and safety warning etc.
SaleBestseller No. 6
HLAUTO 6Z4J Emergency Dash Strobe Lights: 2x16.8 inch Amber White Safety Lights, 48 LED Flashing Warning Hazard Interior Windshield Visor Traffic Light Bars for Trucks, Construction Vehicles
  • ????【STAY VISIBLE. DRIVE SAFE】: HLauto 2x16.8" dash strobe flashing lights are designed with 48 high-brightness LEDs and upgraded 4D lens, making it brighter than the other 32 LED strobe light bars. Keep your vehicle visible to ensure your driving safety
  • ????【EASY TO INSTALL】: With adjustable brackets, 10 suction cups, and 13.12ft long cable, you can easily place these dash strobe lights on the window and install them on the front windshield or rear window
  • ????【QUICKLY RESPONDER】: Just plug in the 12V or 24V cigarette lighter, and choose the strobe mode you need. This visor light bar has 20 flashing modes with last memory recall. Great for security, construction safety warnings, police, and law enforcement vehicles, etc.
  • ????【STURDY AND LONGER LASTING】: Exterior consists of ABS housing and aluminum alloy bracket to endure all kinds of weather conditions, this LED strobe light will not melt in the sun like many inferior dash lights.
  • ????【WARRANTY FOR YOUR RIGHTS】: HLauto emergency strobe lights bar come with a 2-year warranty and 24-hour service. Please feel free to contact us through your Order Number or User Manual
Bestseller No. 7
20 Pack LED Emergency Strobe Lights 6 LED Amber White Surface Mount Flashing Lights Warning Emergency Flashing Lights Construction Caution Lights for Truck off Road Car Firefighter Vehicles ATV SUV
  • Enough to Use: you will receive 20 packs of LED emergency strobe lights, adopting waterproof design, made of quality aluminum alloy housing, with heat dissipation ability; The high transmission PC lens can offer optimum protection, not easy to break or deform, can be applied in most harsh environments
  • Easy to Install: the LED warning emergency flashing lights have 2 lighting modes, including constantly mode and strobe mode, the red wire cable is connected to the positive pole, the black wire cable is connected to the negative pole, and the yellow wire cable is connected to the positive change flashing mode; When the yellow wire touches the red wire, the mode will be changed, when the yellow wire is released, the mode is fixed
  • High Bright LED Light: the bright LED strobe lights are designed with 6 pieces of high intensity LED chips, can improve the overall visibility, which are much brighter than the standard LED strobe lights, can ensure your driving safe during the day and night
  • 2 Flashing Patterns: the LED strobe lights have 2 different flashing patterns, include constant mode and directional flash patterns, designed with low power consumption, fast start up speed, fast heat dissipation, adding a stylish overall look to your vehicle and making it eye catching
  • Various Applications: the LED strobe lights are suitable for most vehicles with 12-24V power source, such as truck, SUV, pickup, off road vehicle, ATV, engineering vehicles, emergency vehicles, firefighter vehicles, construction vehicle and more
Bestseller No. 8
ASPL 29.5" 54 LED Strobe Light Bar Double Side Flashing High Intensity Emergency Warning Flash Strobe Light with Magnetic Base for Safety Construction Vehicles Tow Trucks Pickup (Amber/White)
  • 【SUPER VISIBILITY】ASPL 29.5”emergency strobe light is designed with 54 high intensity LEDS, Bright enough for day use. Both the front and back of the light have SIX groups of LEDs, and both left and right sides one. This unique design not only meets higher brightness needs but also warns other vehicles more effectively.
  • 【EASY TO INSTALL】4 x 7 strong magnets with larger thick rubber suction cups, more stable than other 4 x 4 magnets. Very quick to mount without hurting the roof of your vehicles, as well as adding strength on attachment. 16.4 ft heavy duty cable and 12-24V plug and play, long enough to install the light anywhere of the vehicle.
  • 【26 FLASHING MODES】Double switch buttons setting, 26 Patterns to choose from. You can switch ON/OFF or select the flashing mode conveniently at the cigarette lighter plug buttons. Last used pattern recall/memory function.
  • 【HIGH QUALITY】 Made of durable aluminum material, waterproof with IP67, over 50,000 hours life span. Great to use in rain, fog, dust, and snow weather, resisting moisture and vibration, escorting your driving.
  • 【FEATURES】29.5"L x 8.1"W x 3.7"H. Power: 54W. High-Power: 1W / LED Working at DC12-24V.This rooftop strobe light bar is a great choice for firefighter, snow plowing, safety warning, emergency vehicles, utility workers, postal service, construction vehicle, etc.
SaleBestseller No. 9
LUMENIX 72 LED White Amber Rooftop Strobe Beacon Lights w/Controller Magnetic Emergency Warning Traffic Flashing Light Bar for Construction Vehicles Towing Snow Plow Mail Trucks(American Flag Pattern)
  • PATENT DESIGN - Upgrade your vehicle with our newest design of the LUMENIX rooftop emergency warning lights. It's equipped with a portable controller that can control and know the light pattern change outside the vehicle. The rugged ABS housing ensures durability, capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions. The anti-scratch PC lens provides long-lasting clarity, ensuring maximum brightness. Meeting the demands of your search for all-weather truck strobe lights.
  • EXCEPTIONAL VISIBILITY DAY AND NIGHT - With a total of 72 high-power LED chips, this emergency flashing mini lightbar provides an extremely wide visibility range. The crystal clear lens maximizes brightness, making it easily visible during the day and night. It's the perfect choice for law enforcement emergency vehicles to effectively warn of potential hazards.
  • ADVANCED CONTROLLER WITH MULTIPLE STROBE MODES - Upgrade your vehicle with our rooftop strobe beacon light, featuring an impressive selection of 28 dynamic strobe modes, and this emergency light bar including 3 highly effective traffic advisor patterns, perfect for emergency vehicles and law enforcement applications. Equipped with a user-friendly control box, the intuitive control panel boasts a mode display for effortless mode selection.
  • STRENGTH MAGNETIC MOUNTING - Installation is a breeze with stronger magnetic mounts. The lightbar easily attaches to any metal rooftop using the 2 strong magnetic feet with protective suction cup rubber padding. Experience enhanced stability and hold with the suction cup design. The low-profile design minimizes air resistance. Whether it's emergency situations or causes worker attention, our products effectively communicate warning messages to those around, ensuring safety and security.
  • UTILITY VEHICLES USE - This truck rooftop beacon light is perfect for a wide range of utility vehicles. It is ideal for EMS law enforcement, first response situations, emergency vehicles, towing and construction sites vehicles, trailers, postal services, snowplows, rescue trucks, tractors, garbage trucks, street sweepers, road maintenance and city service workers, golf carts, school buses, security, and more.
Bestseller No. 10
LRTER 2 in 1 Emergency Strobe Traffic Advisor Light Bar Amber White Warning Hazard Safety Interior Windshield Dash Lights Emergency Lights for Trucks Construction 2x17.7", Amber/White
  • ????【PERFECT CUSTOMER SERVICE】LRTER LED emergency traffic advisor light bars are easy to install and durable, 100% ensure in good condition before shipped. We provide REPLACEMENT or REFUND service. 3 years warranty, plz purchase with confidence.
  • ????【SAFEGUARD YOUR SECURITY】LRTER windshield strobe lights are bright and visible from pretty far out. Good visibility during daylight without the high glare at night. When you are in trouble or take part in search and rescue efforts, turn on the warning flash lights, and the people will notice your vehicle from a distance. Great for safety in an emergency!
  • ????【SUPER VISIBLE】With PS magnifying lens and high-Iintensity LEDs, our emergency traffic advisor light bars are 5 times brighter than others. Even during the day time, these windshield strobe lights are plenty visible to drivers. Visibility during daylight hours is excellent, and you can get considerable visibility during nighttime hours.
  • ????【26 FLASH PATTERNS】With cigarette lighter plug, our emergency warning lights bar have 26 patterns to choose from for many different uses and last pattern recall/memory function. Plug and play & quick reponse.Well made and absolutely draw attention.
  • ????【MORE THAN 50000HRS LIFESPAN】Made of high high-quality aluminum alloy housing, LRTER warning flashing safety lights have a superb heat dissipation performance, which guarantee stable and dependable LED illumination and prolongs the lifespan of LEDs.

Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

I had these questions and looked into my local ordinances.

Blue lights on plow trucks are legal in certain locations. My state does not allow them, nor can my snowplow have green lights. Bummer.

I settled for some high intensity backup lights. I am confident my tractor can be seen. It no longer has the stock halogen bulbs, nor does it have the reflectors on the seat pan. It has an LED light bar on the front and reverse LED backup lights. It’s lit like a Christmas tree.

Find the best backup lights for plowing snow in 2023 on Amazon.

Originally posted 2022-07-08 15:00:02.