Chevy Bowtie LED Lighted Trailer Hitch Cover Only Lights Up Half the LEDs

Updated 03/11/2016 | Published 03/10/2016

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Question:

The Bully hitch cover I had for my 2005 Silverado 1500 used only the outer two wires green/white. The 4 wire Reese 86062 I bought only lights up part of the bowtie when I plug it into the same connector that I previously used. If I put a 9 volt battery on the test leads that came in the plastic display case with the test me button it does the same as when I plug it into the truck. Only part of the bowtie is lit. Using the brown and white wires does make the whole bowtie light up so I know the bulbs or LEDs are ok. Why is it when I plug the Reese into the same working connector that I previously used for the Bully cover, does it only light up part of the bowtie and not respond to the brake pedal.

asked by: Jeremy

Expert Reply:

To determine if the problem is with the Chevy light hitch cover # RP86530 use a circuit tester such as # PTW2993 to test the pins on the truck's 4-Way connector while someone operates the turn signals, brakes, and running lights in the truck. If any of the circuits are not showing power then that could be the reason and it is likely a blown tow package, stop light, or CHMSL fuse.

Also, if the truck's 4-Way connector is dirty/corroded the cover will not function properly. I have experienced this firsthand. The fix is to clean out the corrosion with a wire brush.

If everything on the truck is working, then there must be a problem with the circuitry of the hitch cover and it will need to be replaced.

expert reply by: Michael H