Left Turn Signal Inoperative on 5 x 8 Landscape Trailer

Updated 03/20/2018 | Published 03/17/2018

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Digital Multimeter with 42" Long Test Leads - LED Display

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Question:

2015 Lowe’s landscape trailer, 5x8. Left turn signal is inoperative. Bulb checks good with a multimeter. Voltage is getting to the copper strip and alternates, also verified with multimeter. Almost as if the bulb is not seating properly, but it feels secure. Thanks!

asked by: Joel

Expert Reply:

If you have tested the contacts in the trailer's bulb socket with a multi-meter like # PT89ZR or circuit tester like # PTW2993 and have confirmed that 12V power is reaching that fixture, then I suggest testing the bulb outside of the socket to confirm it is functioning. Carefully apply 12V power to the bulb contacts to make sure the bulb itself works.

If the bulb is good and the socket is getting power, then check the ground at that inoperative light. Depending on the trailer/light design the ground could be either a separate wire that runs to the trailer frame, or it could have a light that uses its mounting hardware to make the ground connection. Either way that light must make a solid ground to function.

You can try sanding off paint or primer that may be blocking proper metal-to-metal contact. Also check for grease or rust at the grounding point. Rust can be sanded off and grease or other contaminants can be cleaned off with a solvent.

Dielectric grease like # 11755 will help protect your contacts from future corrosion.

expert reply by: Adam R