Trailer light problems
Everyone who has a boat knows how terrible it is to deal with trailer lights. They are constantly going out and giving people trouble. Well mine just got fixed for my bass boat and for some reason they went out again. I dont want to bring them to the shop and pay to get them fixed again so I'm going to try and do it myself. I need a little help though. They will not turn on with the brakes or with the lights but when I lock my car they flash once.... When I turn on the caution lights they flash once in the back and then stop... So it is not the bulbs. Can anyone tell me what is wrong with them?? I got a ticket last time I pulled it for not lights and I can't get another one. Any help in greatly appreciated or if y'all know of anyone who can fix this problem in baton rouge within the next day or two please let me know and I'll pay them. I gotta go fishing this weekend
August 01, 2012 at 2:23pm
The first thing to do is check to make sure you have a good ground. Many times it's a poor ground that causes the problem.
If your trailer is painted or galvanized, make sure the ground is connected to bare metal. You may have to grind away some paint or galvanize at the area where your ground to the trailer is connected.
Also, a multi-meter is great for diagnosing trailer light problems. You can get one for about $10. Use it to check voltage at the plug coming off the vehicle and verify you have ~12 volts at the various connectors by testing with the lights on/off/ signals on/off, brake pressed/not. If you have voltage for all functions at the vehicle, then move to the lights to test and then the wires.
Good luck.