Troubleshooting Trailer Wiring that Keeps Blowing Fuse on Truck

Updated 06/08/2018 | Published 06/07/2018

Question:

i have an enclosed trailer that seems to blow my tow vehicles fuse from time to time.. i have looked for the reason for the short and can not seem to find it. in the short term, is there a way to add a fuse to trailer wiring , so that it will blow that fuse first and not blow my towvehicles fuse ? thanks,

asked by: Frank Z

Expert Reply:

If you know what circuit on the trailer is causing the fuse to blow on your truck, then you can install the Flex-a-lite 40 Amp Fuse Holder # FLX30357K inline with that circuit wire. With that being said, this won't really fix the issue, as you will still continue to blow the fuse until the short on the trailer wiring is located and repaired.

If you have isolated the issue to the trailer side, I recommend closely inspecting the wiring for any damaged or exposed areas. Check the wiring just behind the tail lights themselves and also make sure the assemblies are securely grounded to a clean, bare metal surface. Also check the trailer side connector for any dirt or corrosion that might be built-up behind the pins, cleaning as needed.

While the issue is most likely on the trailer, it's also possible that the wiring issue is on your tow vehicle. Make sure the connector on your vehicle is clean and inspect the wiring going into it for any damage/pinched/exposed areas.

If you still cannot find and resolve the issue, please let me know and we can continue to troubleshoot.

expert reply by: Chris R