No Brake Lights on Trailer When Using Tow Ready Wiring # 118494 on 2011 Chevrolet Equinox

Question:

I wired the system 118984 as instructed in my 2011 Chevy Equinox, when testing the wiring, each turn signal worked, the rear lights worked, but when I applied the brakes, the system failed, presumably the circuit protector tripped out. Is this resettable? Secondly, my trailer uses the combined stop / light turn signal system. Is this kit designed for such a system, or do we need to ad a controller for this purpose too. I note that the circuit limit is 2 amps, while 2 - 21 w bulbs has a load of 3.5 ampps. Thanks

asked by: Bill L

Expert Reply:

I would start by checking the ground connections. Make sure the white wire of the Tow Ready Wiring # 118494 is connected to clean metal surface.

Next, make sure that all the lights on your trailer have a good, clean ground connection. If your left side trailer light uses a plastic license plate frame, this may be causing a bad ground connection.You will also want to check your trailer connector to make sure there is not any corrosion which could be causing a bad connection.

You could try to unplug the fuse of the Tow Ready Wiring # 118494 for 3 minutes to see if the unit will reset. If any of these solutions do not work, the unit may be shorted and would need to be replaced.

This unit will work with trailers that have combined stop and turn signals. Most trailers typically have a combined stop and turn signal.

The maximum load for the stop/turn signals is 2.1 amps per side. If the 3.5 amps is for 1 side, then you are overloading the circuit.

I have linked instructions and a video installation for the Tow Ready Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring, part # 118494.