Trailer Says it is Not Connected

Updated 03/16/2017 | Published 03/15/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

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$14.40

10 Gauge Wire - Blue Primary - Per Foot

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$1.61

Question:

I recently just bought a used 2016 Kaufman eazy 4 loader and all the lights work and blinkers but no brakes brake lights work my trucks telling me the trailer is not connected trailer brakes not connected is what it saying on the dashboard also is saying trailer bring it in and check trailer break wiring please help

asked by: Kam

Expert Reply:

You will want to start off by checking all of the wiring on your 2016 Ram. Using a Circuit Tester, like part # PTW2993, you can test all of the pins on the 7-Way wiring harness at the rear bumper to make sure that they are all functioning properly.

Since your brakes and brake lights are not working, I would make sure to look closely at the pins in the 3 o'clock, 5 o'clock, and 9 o'clock positions (see attached photo). If any of the pins are not sending a signal all the way to the wiring harness then you will want to follow the wiring and inspect it for any signs of corrosion, cuts, exposed wires, or if it is bent anywhere. If you find anything that looks like it needs to be replaced, then you can use the 10 Gauge # 10-1-1 wiring to do so.

If the wiring that is connected to your brake controller is not receiving a signal then you will want to cut the wire and test it about 6 inches from the brake controller to see if there is a signal. If there is a signal then you will need to replace the wiring, if there is no signal then you will need to replace your brake controller. I recommend using the Tekonsha P3 # 90195.

If the wiring on your Ram's 7-Way is sending all of the signals, then you will need to repeat the same process on your trailer. You will want to follow the wiring and inspect it for any signs of corrosion, cuts, exposed wires, or if it is bent anywhere on your trailer side. You can use the same # 10-1-1 wiring to replace anything that needs replacing on the trailer side as well.

If you have changed any bad wiring, or you everything was looking just fine, then you will need to take your truck and trailer into a shop so that they can look at it all a little more closely.

I have attached a demonstration video and some helpful articles for you to view as well.