Trailer Lights Dim When Headlights and Turn Signal are Used on 2001 Mitsubishi Montero Using C55380

Updated 05/26/2017 | Published 05/25/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(11)

$57.32

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

(66)

$14.36

Question:

I just installed this unit less than a moth ago and finally got around to connecting it to my trailer. When I turn on the headlights all of the trailer lights get very dim and when I use a turn signal all the lights flash and dim. I used a multi-meter to test all the lights on the trailer and they were all good. so i then tested the plug on my vehicle and I fount that both of the turn signal pins have a low resistances to ground and each other. To me this would say that there is a short in the converter unit causing crass talk between the two signal wires causing the flashing. It may also be sending power back through the ground which will burn out my lights. I would like to know what may be the cause of my issues and if possible the resistance of the signal pins, to ground and between each other. Thanks.

asked by: Evan P

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you have a ground issue.

You will want to start off by checking all of the grounds on your trailer and making sure that they are securely connected with a clean metal-to-metal connection. Rust and sometimes paint can sometimes cause issues with wiring. Checking the ground on your 2001 Mitsubishi Montero is a good idea as well.

Since it really sounds like a faulty ground connection, I doubt it is the converter unit in the Curt # C55380, but you can check that too by using a circuit tester # PTW2993 and testing the signal strength in front of and behind the converter itself.

If you have tested all of that and are still having issues please let me know and I can help you troubleshoot further.

expert reply by: Jon G