Troubleshooting 7-Way Trailer Connector on 1999 Ford F350 That Works Intermittently

Question:

What is the issue? Have 6 blade plug and connector. If wiggle plug sometimes lights work, sometimes not. Thinking of replacing connector and or plug. 1999 F350 SD Thanks!

asked by: Wanda H

Helpful Expert Reply:

Since the problem is intermittent, the most likely cause is corrosion on the blades in the connector on the vehicle or the sockets on the connector on the trailer. First, check those blades on the vehicle's connector for green or white corrosion. If the corrosion is minor, you can take a piece of sandpaper and remove the corrosion, but if its severe it's likely that the corrosion has spread to the interior of the plug and is interfering with the voltage coming through and the connector assembly should be replaced. We offer a replacement as part # 118243.

Next check the sockets on the connector on the trailer. Once again, if the sockets are corroded it'll be difficult to use sandpaper on them, if you have a file that's small and thin enough to fit in there, you can take a stab at cleaning them. If not, you'll need to replace the connector. We offer a trailer connector/junction box as part # HS381-9000 that would work great for you. The junction box provides a spot to neatly make your wiring connections so they'll be protected from the elements and easy to access if necessary.

When the blades and sockets have been cleaned or the connector/s have been replaced, it's a good idea to use some dielectric grease like # 11755 on the blades and in the sockets to prevent corrosion from occurring again.

expert reply by: Mike L