Tail Lights Not Working on 4-Way Connector on Ford Truck with Hopkins Adapter # 37185

Question:

I actually have the Hopkins 47185 which I believe is the same as the 37185. I have wired it to my truck according to how it shows in the link on how to install a brake controller on 1997-2004 Ford trucks and vans. I did the installation and have only used the 7-way for the last 4 years. I tried the 4-way today, and found that I did not have power to the Tail Brown wire light connector. I do have power to the Tail light connector on the 7-way. I unplugged the 4-way connector for the 47185 that plugs into the factory 4-way and found that I dont have power to the Tail light connector at the factory 4-way also. I do have power to the right and left turn lights. When hooked to the trailer lights, I also do have brake lights, but no tail lights. What would be the problem?

asked by: Kevin B

Expert Reply:

On your Ford Truck, there could be a few things you should check. If you do not have power to the 4-way or 7-way connector, part # 37185, it may be a blown tow package fuse under the dashboard or under the hood of the vehicle.

If you have power to the 7-Way connector but not the the 4-way connector at the rear of the vehicle, there may be a bad wire or corrosion inside the, part # 37185, unit. This could happen over time from water getting into the unit and causing corrosion.

You can test the 7 and 4-Way connector with a Multimeter, part # PT89ZR. Using the Multimeter, test for continuity on the brown tail light wire to the 4 way connector on the 7 and 4-Way adapter on your vehicle. If there is not continuity, part # 37185 most likely needs to be replaced.

If these trouble shooting steps do not work, let me know what you find and we will try to find the problem.