If you own a 1987 Toyota Pickup, chances are you will need to replace or repair the tail lights at some point. Fortunately, it is relatively easy to find a wiring diagram for the tail lights, whether you are doing a repair or a modification.
What is a Wiring Diagram?
A wiring diagram is a schematic representation of the electrical circuits of a vehicle. It shows the connections between components and how they are powered. A wiring diagram is often the first step in troubleshooting an electrical problem, as it allows you to see how the circuit is supposed to work.
How to Read a Wiring Diagram
Before we get into the details of the wiring diagram for the 1987 Toyota Pickup tail lights, let’s review some basic principles of reading wiring diagrams.
First, understand that a wiring diagram is a representation of the circuit as it should be, not necessarily as it is. That means that some wires may be shown as straight lines even though they are actually routed through several components.
Second, understand the symbols used on a wiring diagram. Electrical symbols are used to represent components such as switches, lights, and relays. These symbols are usually standardized across different manufacturers and are often described in a legend on the diagram.
Third, follow the flow of the diagram from left to right, following the path of the wires. Note that wiring diagrams may be split into several sections if the circuit is complex.
1987 Toyota Pickup Tail Light Wiring Diagram
The tail light wiring diagram for a 1987 Toyota Pickup is relatively simple. There are three wires that run to each tail light assembly. One wire is for the tail lights themselves, one is for the brake lights, and one is for the turn signals.
The wire colors for the tail lights are as follows:
| Wire Color | Function |
|---|---|
| Red | Tail Lights |
| Green | Brake Lights |
| Yellow | Turn Signals |
The wiring diagram for the 1987 Toyota Pickup tail lights is shown below:
Tail Light Circuit
The tail light circuit is relatively simple. Power is supplied to the circuit by the 10A TAIL fuse in the fuse box. The fuse is connected to the TAIL relay, which is located in the relay box. The relay is then connected to the tail light circuit.
The tail lights themselves are operated by the headlight switch. When the headlight switch is turned on, power is supplied to the tail light circuit. The tail light bulb is then illuminated.
Brake Light Circuit
The brake light circuit is also simple. Power is supplied to the circuit by the 10A STOP fuse in the fuse box. The fuse is connected to the BRAKE relay, which is located in the relay box. The relay is then connected to the brake light circuit.
The brake light switch is located on the brake pedal. When the brake pedal is depressed, the switch is activated, sending power to the brake light circuit. The brake light bulbs are then illuminated.
Turn Signal Circuit
The turn signal circuit is a little more complex than the other circuits. Power is supplied to the circuit by the 10A TURN fuse in the fuse box. The fuse is connected to the TURN relay, which is located in the relay box. The relay is then connected to the turn signal circuit.
The turn signal switch is located on the steering column. When the switch is activated, power is sent to either the left or right turn signal circuit, depending on which direction the switch is moved. The turn signal bulbs are then illuminated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I troubleshoot a tail light problem?
A: The first step in troubleshooting a tail light problem is to check the bulbs. Replace any bulbs that are burnt out. If the problem persists, check the wiring and connections for damage or corrosion. Lastly, check the fuses and relays for any signs of damage or failure.
Q: Can I use LED bulbs in my Toyota Pickup tail lights?
A: Yes, LED bulbs are a popular upgrade for Toyota Pickup tail lights. However, be sure to purchase bulbs that are designed for your specific vehicle and that are compatible with your electrical system.
Q: How do I install aftermarket tail lights?
A: Installing aftermarket tail lights is generally a straightforward process. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and be sure to make all necessary electrical connections. Before installing the new lights, be sure to remove the old lights and any associated wiring.
Q: Do I need to replace the entire tail light assembly if only one bulb is burnt out?
A: No, you can replace individual bulbs without replacing the entire assembly. However, if the assembly is damaged or corroded, it may be best to replace the entire unit for optimal performance.
Q: Why are my tail lights dim or flickering?
A: Dim or flickering tail lights may be caused by a poor electrical connection or a failing bulb. Check the wiring and connections for any signs of damage or corrosion, and replace any burnt out bulbs. It may also be helpful to check the fuses and relays for any signs of damage or failure.
