Troubleshooting Hopkins 3-2 wire Converter HM48847 Only Having 9.7v Out Of Converter

Updated 06/09/2021 | Published 06/06/2021

Question:

I have a Hopkins 3-2 converter on my 99 Toyota Tacoma, for powering a 4-pin flat trailer wiring harness. I was getting a voltage on turn signals and brake lights from 12v before the converter to 9.5 - 10v output after the converter, but no voltage on tail lights. I called and spoke with one of your sales/advice people and she said to purchase a new 3-2 converter because something went wrong in mine. So I did. I installed the new converter, and I still have a voltage on brakes and turn signals to 9.7v output after the converter. I have a solid ground. Ive even direct grounded to the negative battery terminal. Same thing. So Ive wasted some money, but still need to fix this issue. Any idea what could be causing this? Or is this normal for a 3-2 converter? Thanks!

asked by: Alex U

Expert Reply:

I reached out to my contact at Hopkins and the Hopkins Tail Light Converter - LED Compatible # HM48847 you have should have a full 12 volts exiting the converter.

She recommended checking that the ground wire is connected to clean, corrosion free metal, but since you have already checked this then this is likely not the cause.

Are the tail lights on your 1999 Toyota Tacoma the factory tail lights? or have they been changed with aftermarket ones?

If not it really sounds like the converter is faulty, but getting two faulty ones in a row would be pretty unlikely.

I recommend returning the # HM48847 and using the Tekonsha # 118379 which is a confirmed fit for your Tacoma and will not require any splicing into your factory wiring.

I included a video of the # 118379 for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Samuel C