Trailer Lights Do Not Work and Brakes Lock Up in Reverse

Updated 08/09/2018 | Published 08/08/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Easy Grease Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 6K Axles - 6 on 5-1/2 - Pre-Greased

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$96.34

Curt Trailer Connector Adapter - 4-Way Flat to 5-Way Flat - Vehicle End

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$17.61

Question:

Just bought the boat and have 2 questions 1 Cant get brake, blinker or reverse lights to work on trailer. I have a 4-pin on tow vehicle and am using an adapter to the 5-pin trailer hook up. Checked all fuses. Any place else I should look into? Read that a 7-to-5-pin adapter may work better. 2 My surge brakes keep engaging and locking up while backing up. Once theyre engaged they stay engaged. Read this problem may be related to my problem above? While trying to replace the pads. I couldnt get them over the rotor/disc. It is vented. Is vented disc standard on this trailer?

asked by: Bryan

Expert Reply:

If none of the lights on your boat trailer are working then it most likely the fuse on the tow vehicle. I know you said you have checked them but it is imperative to look in your owner's manual to be sure you have the correct locations for each circuit. Once you do find the correct circuits you will need to remove each fuse and inspect the element to make sure there is not a break. The break can be faint so be sure to pay special attention. If you are absolutely certain the fuses are good then the other issue could be the grounds so you will want to check this for both trailer connectors in addition to each light. The bulbs could also be busted so this is something you will need to check. If all else fails start tracing each of the wires back to the point of origin. Depending on your tow vehicle, it may be necessary to have the dealer activate the tow package as well.

If the brakes on the trailer are engaging when backing up then you do not have the reverse lockout installed properly or it is not working. If the adapter you are using is like part # C57187 then you will need to make sure the reverse light wire is installed on the correct circuit which you can use a test light to do so. I can't say I have heard of vented disc brakes being common on a boat trailer but I don't see any reason as to why the vents in the rotor would interfere with the brake pad. I would double check that the pads are on the correct side and compatible with the calipers.

expert reply by: Conner L