Troubleshooting 5-Way Trailer Wiring When Reverse Lockout Is Not Working On 1997 Chevrolet Tahoe

Question:

I just installed the recommended kit for concerning a 4way to 5way attaching the blue wire to the reverse light in my 1997 Chevy, 2door, Tahoe. Does not work and need help. When I plug my 5way from the trailer to the newly installed 5way on the Tahoe, the reverse lights will not work on the Tahoe. When unplugged, they work. Not sure what to do next. Appears there may be a short but not sure where to go first. When all is plugged in, everything else works fine, to include stop, tail and brake lights, just not the reverse which also would activate the trailer lock if working correctly. Any suggestions Thanks

asked by: Dwight B

Expert Reply:

It sounds like the reverse solenoid valve is not hooked up correctly. I have attached a link to an installation video for a solenoid valve that shows how the wiring is done. You want to make sure one of the wires coming from the valve is attached to the blue wire on the trailer 5-way wiring harness and the other wire is securely grounded to a clean, bare metal surface on the trailer.

If everything is connected properly, you can check all of the wiring harness connections on the trailer and also make sure the grounds are all secured correctly. Check the connectors for signs of damage or corrosion and repair as needed.

You can check the vehicle connector as well. You can use a circuit tester like part # PTW2993. Have a helper sit in the truck and run through all of the functions. Have them place the vehicle in reverse, making sure they are applying the brake and test the brake output pin on the harness to make sure you are getting current. If not, you will need to make sure the blue wire on the harness is attached to a wire that only shows current when the Tahoe is placed in reverse.

I have attached a helpful article for troubleshooting wiring you can check out.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L