Troubleshooting a 7-Way Vehicle to 6-Way Horse Trailer Connection  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

There is definitely a short circuit somewhere to cause a fuse to blow and batteries to go dead. I strongly recommend checking all your wiring in your vehicle and your trailer. I'd start on the vehicle side and make my way back. Using a circuit tester like # PTW2993, check each function of your 7-way on your vehicle without the trailer attached. The incandescent light will draw enough power to give you an accurate reading on all the functions. If there is a problem with any of the functions, replace your wiring to that function.

Double check all of your connection points for rust, corrosion, or debris as this can cause system shorts. Clean or replace as needed. It is also a good idea to use dielectric grease like # 11755 to give you a stronger connection.

Next, connect just the adapter to your vehicle and test each function. If the functions aren't working correctly, replace your adapter. The internal functions of an adapter aren't easy to reach and for the price point, I recommend just getting another adapter. The Hopkins Adapter 7-Pole to 6-Pole - Universal, # 47549, is a good adapter to replace what you've got.

If your adapter isn't the issue, you will want to check your trailer wires for damage like crimps, missing insulation, or other noticable damage. Double check the routing of the functions to the wiring harness of your trailer. Make sure your ground is clean of rust or debris and has a solid metal to metal connection. I've attached a help article to assist.

expert reply by: Jason S

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