Trailer Wiring Harness Converter Boxes No Longer Working After 1 Year of Use on a 2008 Ford Escape

Question:

why do the control boards keep crapping out i do not feel this is a great product the first one lasted less than a year and now the secound one is not working after two years i will not replace again wit this type.

asked by: Tim

Expert Reply:

The problem could be corrosion build up at the trailer connectors that is causing a short or another wiring issue on the trailer that is causing a short. If this is the case, then the harness # C56160 is actually doing its job of protecting the vehicle wiring by shorting out at the converter rather than the vehicle.

You will want to check your trailer connectors frequently before use for any corrosion, clean out the connectors, and make sure the wiring harness ground connection is intact. Moving the ground to a more substantial location, like the vehicle frame, may also help.

Check the trailer wiring for any nicks that may come into contact with the metal trailer frame because this can cause a short too. Fix these as needed and also make sure the main ground on the trailer is intact and is connected to a clean bare metal surface on the trailer frame.

Also, if the trailer or trailers you are using has extra running lights, this may be creating too much power draw for the system and can be causing an overload situation. If you wanted to go with a different harness, Tow Ready makes a good one, # 118551, that is highly rated by customers. I have included a link to the installation details and a link to a video showing a typical installation.

expert reply by: Michael H