Fuse Keeps Blowing on Running Light Circuit With Incandescent License Plate Light

Updated 10/26/2020 | Published 10/23/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Optronics LED Trailer License Plate Light w/ Bracket - 5 Diodes - Clear Lens

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$19.96

Dielectric Grease for Electrical Connectors, 2 oz.

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Peterson Great White LED Trailer License Plate Light w/ Bracket - 1 Diode - Clear Lens

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$38.87

Question:

I have a 5.5 x 10 Aluminum trailer...All LEDs except the license plate light is a regular bulb. I keep blowing the fuse on the running lights....it works on my buddys truck which is an older Expedition, I have a new Jeep. What would cause the fuse on my truck to keep blowing? BTW the trailer is brand new also.

asked by: Jason

Expert Reply:

There are a couple reasons why the same fuse keeps blowing for your running lights. The license plate light and your running lights are on the same circuit, so it could be the incandescent light of the license plate is overdrawing the circuit, so I do recommend changing it to an LED with the Optronics LED Trailer License Plate Light # LPL55CB or Peterson Great White LED Trailer License Plate Light # M290B-P.

It could also be a simple short on the wiring, so you will want to take a look at the wiring to see if you can find any wires on the circuit that are crimped, frayed, or otherwise damaged and repair or replace as needed.

The last thing to take a look at are your trailer connectors, as they may have corrosion which is leading to a short. If so, you can try and clean them or replace the trailer side with a new 4-way, the 4-Pole Trailer End Connector # 18004.

Also, to prevent corrosion on the connectors and maximize the lifespan of them I strongly recommend using Dielectric Grease for Electrical Connectors # 11755.

expert reply by: Kyle S