Troubleshooting Camper Lights When Running Lights Work But Turn/Brake Lights Do Not
Updated 02/02/2015 | Published 01/31/2015
Question:
cocerning part # 47-86-101 or 47-84-420 My bargman tail light brake light and rt turn signal dont work but the running lights do. Its a 2014 northern lite camper. Checked the wire for turn signal/brake light at the light itself and line going into the camper and they are both working. Wondering if there is a way to fix the LED lights or is it one of those new technologies that you have to replace the whole thing? Already have the plastic housing just need the tail light itself and the wires that come out of it if there is no way to fix the light. Just need to make sure which part number is the correct one for my application. Thanks,
asked by: David B
Expert Reply:
You can troubleshoot your truck and trailer by disconnecting the harness and test each one separately. On the truck side I recommend using a circuit tester like part # 40376.
Since you said the vehicle side of the wiring is working properly you will want to test the camper wiring. You should look for signs of dirt, discoloration or corrosion. You can try cleaning the connectors with a spray-on contact cleaner if they show any such signs of corrosion and then use dielectric grease like part # 11755 that helps keep moisture out to prevent corrosion.
You can test the trailer lights using a 12V battery. Connect the battery negative terminal to the ground pin on the trailer connector. One by one connect the battery positive terminal to each of the three pins on the trailer 4-pole. If the trailer lights function correctly when directly powered in this way then you know the issue is not within the trailer wiring and is with either the truck or trailer connector. If the lights do not work when using the battery you will need to inspect all trailer wiring from the 4-pole back to the trailer lights.
Check the wires for visible signs of damage like cracked or worn insulation, loose wires or any that may be pinched between trailer components. If you find any damaged wires you will want to repair or replace any such wire as needed.
If the wire functions work for all of the trailer wiring then you may need to replace the light unit altogether.
