How To Determine What Is Causing Wiring Harness Converter To Short Out on 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan

Question:

2009 Dodge Grand Caravan, basic 4x6 utility trailer, standard 4 plug wiring I had my trailer wiring installed professionally. I have had two converters blow in a year. Both times I noticed that a light bulb was burnt out on the trailer. Can a blown light bulb on the trailer cause a converter to fry? Thank you very much for an excellent web site and your time and efforts.

asked by: Mike B

Expert Reply:

A light bulb going out on the trailer will not cause a converter box to short out, but it is indicating a short on the trailer that could be causing the converter box on your vehicle to short out.

If all of the functions at the 4-Way connector on your 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan are working properly, we can turn our attention to the trailer. Start by checking all of the light bulbs on the trailer to be sure they are installed properly and in good working condition. Next, check the ground connections on the trailer. The taillights are suspect for ground problems especially if they are grounded through their mounting bolts. A plastic license plate holder could be an issue also. If the mounting brackets for any of the lights are bolted to the trailer frame, the ground connection can be lost there also. I am including video links on troubleshooting a trailer ground wire.

If all the ground connections are solid, look for a broken pinched or frayed wire that is making contact with the trailer frame or another wire in the trailer wiring harness.

I am including a couple of video links on how to test the converter box on your vehicle.

expert reply by: Jeff D