Troubleshooting Trailer Lights That Go Off When 2011 Dodge Ram Is Put in Reverse
Question:
when I put my 2011 ram in reverse all of my boat trailer lights go off. when in any other gear they work normal. no flicker or nothing when in any other gear. all truck lights work when in reverse.
asked by: Mike
Expert Reply:
It sounds like the wiring on your trailer 7-way connector is wired incorrectly. Try using a circuit tester like part # PTW2993 and testing each pin on the trailer connector for function. If the pins on the connector are compared to the hands of the clock, the pin at the 1:00 position is the 12-volt accessory feed. This pin should show constant voltage. The pin in the 3:00 position should show voltage when the right turn signal and brake is activated. The pin in the 5:00 position carries the brake controller output voltage and should go hot when the manual brake switch is used on the brake controller. The 7:00 pin is the ground, 9:00 is left turn/brake and the 11:00 is the running lights.
If you determine that the vehicle trailer connector is wired incorrectly, examine the connector on the trailer itself and verify that it is correctly wired. You can use a car battery to power up each pin on the connector if needed to verify function.
I have linked an FAQ on wiring that shows the correct wire functions.
Products Referenced in This Question
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Adapter 7-Pole to 6-Pole - Universal
- Trailer Wiring
- Wiring Adapters
- Single-Function Adapter
- 7 Round - Blade
- Plug Only
- 6 Round
- Hopkins
more information >
Continue Researching
- Shop: 7-Pole Blade to 5-Pole Flat Connector Wired Trailer Adapter - Coiled Cable - 94-1/2" Long
- Shop: Demco Trailer Coupler - Flat Plate Mount - 3/4" Bolt Hole - 2-5/16" Ball - 21,000 lbs
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Trailer Lights Turning off When Brakes are Applied
- Shop: #84 E-Z Lube Spindle w/ Brake Flange for 3,500-lb Trailer Axles
- Shop: Buyers Products Cast Trailer Coupler - Flat Plate Mount - Auto Latch - 2-5/16" Ball - 18K
- Shop: BTR E-Z Lube Spindle w/ Brake Flange for 2,500-lb Trailer Axles - 1-3/4" Diameter
- Shop: Steel Spoke Trailer Wheel - 16" x 6" Rim - 6 on 5-1/2 - Galvanized Finish
- Q&A: Replacement Bearing Solution for DICO Hub 45263
- Video: Americana Tires and Wheels - Wheel Only - AM20747 Review
- Shop: Demco Trailer Coupler - Flat Plate Mount - 5/8" Bolt Hole - 2-5/16" Ball - 21K lbs
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Search Results: 44649
- Video: Choosing the Right Trailer Wiring
- Search Results: 68149
- Video: Lippert Solera Slider Slide-Topper Review
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 4-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Q&A: Wheel and Tire Recommendation For Jet Ski Trailer with Tire Size ST175/80R13
- Search Results: 25580
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Shop: Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Q&A: Wiring a Camper Shell Third Brake Light on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado
- Search Results: dust caps
- Video: Roadmaster Automatic Battery Disconnect Installation - 2020 GMC Sierra 1500
- Article: Car Camping Checklist
- Q&A: Towing a Trailer with Electric Brakes with a Semi Tractor with Air Brakes
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Video: Lippert SolidStep RV and Camper Steps Installation - 2019 Jayco Eagle Fifth Wheel
- Article: Trailer Tire Sizing