Troubleshooting New Side Clearance LED Lights Not Working on Older Camping Trailer

Question:

tJust replaced side and rear lights with LED. This is on an old Trillium camper. I have the rear lights working, but not the side lights. Wondering what is most likely the problem

asked by: Kim

Expert Reply:

The likely issue with the side lights is either the ground isn't strong enough and you need to have a better connection to the frame or since you added LED lights there may be a power draw issue in which case you would need to check your wiring for a break or short.

You can use an incandescent bulb circuit tester like # PTW2993 to test those lights to ensure power and ground are good. With LED lights you do need the polarity correct for function so if you have the power and ground reversed it won't work. Most lights ground through the mounting hardware, so you may need to use a jump wire from the frame to ensure the mounting connection is a good ground. It is highly likely your issue is a poor ground connection since the rear LED lights are working.

expert reply by: Jason S