Troubleshooting 5th Wheel Right Turn Signal Working Without Being Hooked up to Tow Vehicle

Question:

When fifth wheel trailer is not hooked up to tow vehicle, The right turn signal brake light wireblack when tested has power to it. Would this be from electric brake failure on right side.

asked by: Brian S

Expert Reply:

If your right turn circuit is showing power when your 5th wheel isn't connected to your tow vehicle it sounds like you have some circuits that are crossing over.

Try disconnecting whatever power source you have on your 5th wheel whether it is being connected to the campsite power or a battery on your trailer and you should see the power disappear. If this is the case then you need to inspect the wiring for your right turn signal and look for where it may be receiving power. This would likely be from damaged wiring or even corrosion inside your 7-Way connector.

Another possibility is that your breakaway battery might be the issue. Try testing the wires on that as well as the battery itself.

expert reply by: Jon G