Troubleshooting All Lighting Not Working on Truck Camper

Question:

Hi there! We just bought a used slide in camper to put on to our 2005 Dodge Ram 3500 dually truck. When we initially brought the camper home, we did use my stepdads 2011 Duramax, and all the lights on his truck and on the camper were functioning properly. When we went to put the camper onto our Dodge, when the camper is plugged in, none of the lights on the camper work, as well as the brake lights, and turn signals on the truck. We have not yet looked at the plug harness for the truck yet, as we are unsure of exactly what to be looking for for a problem like this. Any input would be greatly appreciated!

asked by: Mykaela G

Expert Reply:

Hi there!

None of the lights are working so there are a great many issues that could be occurring so I'll give you a number of troubleshooting methods, which will mean you will have to look at the harness on the truck, as well as the camper.

to determine the specific problem you will need to use a circuit tester such as # PTW2979 to test the connector on your truck after disconnecting it from your camper. Check the wiring going into your harness from your tail lights to see if those wires are carrying the correct signals, if not then the issue is with the vehicle wiring.

If the signals going to your harness are okay, you'll need to test the signals coming out of the harness, and if they are correct then your issue is likely going to be with the camper side wiring. You will also want to check both your vehicle and trailer connectors for corrosion, which can be green or white in color. A build-up of corrosion can interfere with the signals getting through the connectors so if it is present you will need to either replace the plug or clean the corrosion and be sure to use Dielectric Grease # LT37534 to help stop any future corrosion.

Another important issue you will want to take a look at are the ground connections, as they can be the cause of numerous lighting problems. You'll want to make sure your grounds are securely attached to bare metal surfaces free of any paint, dirt or corrosion of any kind. Also check your wiring thoroughly to ensure there are none that are crimped, broken or otherwise damaged.

I've added links to a pair of help articles on trailer wiring that you may also find useful.