Is Trailer Wiring Problem a Ground Issue

Published 06/14/2019

Question:

I just installed LED fender lights on my cargo trailer 14single axle Interstate I also re-wired the 6 pole plug. I took pictures of the old one to make sure I wired the new one correctly. After install, none of my trailer lights work. But if i remove the ground from a fender light and jump it to the frame of my truck, it works. That tells me a ground issue somewhere. What is confusing me is that when I touch my test between the truck frame and the trailer, it lights up. I cant decide if its a ground issue or a short issue

asked by: Travia C

Expert Reply:

I absolutely agree with you that what you are experiencing is a ground issue; moving it to a frame with a clean metal surface is going to resolve the issue in nearly every case. If it was a short you would still be having issues with lights not working as moving the ground wouldn't resolve that. A short means the voltage would not be getting to the lights and also possibly affecting other lights so you are right on that it is a ground issue.

I have added a link to a help article on troubleshooting trailer wiring that I highly recommend checking out as well.

expert reply by: Kyle S