Testing a Vehicle Side 7-Way Trailer Connector for Proper Function
Question:
How is checking a trailer connector done, specifically, and what tools are needed? I have a probe/clip/light tester circuit and a voltage tester with the black/red probes, and box with a dial on the side and a knob with different settings on the front. Will either of these items work?
asked by: Carol
Expert Reply:
To check the pins on the vehicle side 7-Way, you can use a circuit tester or the volt meter. The circuit tester will show you if a signal is coming through on the pin you are testing while the volt meter will tell you that and how much voltage is being sent. When you test the brake circuit pin on the 7-Way, it may be more beneficial to see how much voltage it is sending through.
If you are facing the 7-Way, using either tester, you will test for the proper signal as follows:
1 oclock position = 12 volt hot lead
3 oclock position = right turn/brake light
5 oclock position = brake controller output
7 oclock position = ground
9 oclock position = left turn/brake light
11 oclock position = tail and running lights
Center = reverse lights
You will need to have someone sit in the truck and run through each function while you test the pins. In order to determine the configuration on the trailer side, you will have to trace the wiring back from each pin. You an use the wiring diagrams I have linked for you.
While checking the connectors if you notice any corrosion build up or dirt inside or or in back of either connector, clean it out. A wire brush like a battery terminal brush works well.
You can also check the adjustment on the brakes to make sure they are not adjusted too tight. There is a a little wheel with teeth in it at the bottom back side of each assembly. Using a flathead screwdriver you can turn the wheel to adjust the brakes. I have included a link to a video that features our installer adjusting the brakes. Go to the 4 minute, 55 second mark.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter Electric Trailer Brake Assembly - 12" - Right Hand - 6,000 lbs
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brakes
- Electric Drum Brakes
- RH
- 6000 lbs
- Brake Assembly
- Manual Adjust
- 12 x 2 Inch Drum
- Dexter
more information >
Continue Researching
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Shop: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Shop: Transmission Cooler
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Shop: Curt 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Custom Wiring Harness w/ 7-Pole Connector and Cover Plate - 7' Long
- Shop: Vehicle Tow Bar Brake System
- Shop: EcoHitch Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - 2"
- Shop: Curt 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Custom Wiring Harness w/ 7-Pole Connector - 7' Long
- Video: Choosing the Right Trailer Wiring
- Shop: Castle Rock ST205/75R15 Radial Tire w/ 15" Liger Aluminum Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - LR C - Black
- Search Results: 4 pole to 7 pole adapter
- Search Results: 7 pole to 4 pole adapter
- Shop: Aluminum Margay Trailer Wheel - 15" x 5" Rim - 5 on 4-1/2 - Glossy Black
- Shop: Roof Rack
- Shop: Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller - 7-Way Plug Mount w/ Bluetooth App - 1 to 2 Axle - Proportional
- Search Results: yakima roof rack
- Search Results: roof rack
- Video: Choosing the Right Brake Controller
- Video: Curt Echo Mobile Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 2020 Subaru Outback Wagon
- Q&A: How to Clean a 7-Way Trailer Wiring Connector
- Search Results: #84 spindle
- Search Results: torsion axel for trailer
- Search Results: lug nuts
- Video: Taskmaster Tires and Wheels - Wheel Only - AX02550545BMMFL Review
- Q&A: Is Dielectric Grease Good For Protecting My 4-Pin Trailer Connector?
- Q&A: What Size Tires Fit on the 15 x 5 Trailer Wheel with 5 on 5-1/2 Bolt Pattern