Electrical/Lighting
Continued
We can’t cover every scenario in this manual but here’s some trouble shooting we can do to help get
your trailer back in top condition.
Having a helper standing behind the vehicle to see if the lights are working will make the process go
a lot quicker..and save you from running back and forth.
1). Start at the Vehicle
If your lights seem dim or don’t work at all, lets start with the harness at the vehicle. This will require
an electrical tester that you can find at your local hardware store. This tester will tell you right away
if you have a problem from your car or truck. If the tester shows a problem, check the operation of
all your vehicle lights to make sure you don’t have a blown fuse, a burned-out light or a bad flasher.
Clean the connections and check again. Check for broken wires near the connector. If you still have
problems, make an appointment to have the wiring checked.
If the lights on the tester function properly, the problem is the trailer lights or harness.
2). Clean Every Connector
If we’ve determined the vehicle is okay and lights still aren’t working properly, clean all the contact
pins with a good quality electrical contact cleaner and a fine wire brush.
3). Check the Ground
Most problems occur because of a bad ground. If your using incandescent lights, they should be
grounded at the front of the trailer along the metal frame (should be a white wire).
Double check and clean all connections with sandpaper. If the ground screw is corroded it should be
replaced.
LED lights on the hand use the vehicle as the ground. SO if theres a grounding issue it’s back at the
vehicles plug or wiring.
4). Replace Bad Bulbs & Clean Corroded Sockets
If you have just a single light out chances are you just need to replace the bulb. Remove the lens
cover, replace the bulb(s). Test it and if ti works your on your way.
If the light still fails to work, we need to check and clean all the sockets of any corrosion. Some
simple sandpaper around a wooden dowel works great.
5). Testing the Continuity
Bad, or broken wiring can also lead to failures. Check the trailer wiring with a continuity tester
available at your local automotive shop. Follow manufactures instructions for use and testing
procedure.
6). Replace the Wiring
If you’re finding badly corroded parts and all else fails, you can buy a new wire harness for about
$30-$60. A new harness should include the wiring connector, lights and lenses, and complete
instructions. In most cases, it can be installed in about two hours or less.
