Brake Lamp/Turn Signals Not Working on Trailer Towed By 2020 Chevy Silbverado 1500

Question:

Hi, I have a tri axle trailer with hydrastar electric brakes, on my landcruiser everything worked fine using a redarc brake controller and a 7 pin plug. Since getting a 2020 silverado this is where my problems have begun. When plugging in the 7 pin the trailer running lights all work, then when putting my foot on the brake the truck makes a clicking noise where the light module is near the spare wheel of the truck and all trailer lights turn off. When this happens my truck is putting up a trailer disconnected code on the display. Any help would be much appreciated. thanks

asked by: Joe

Helpful Expert Reply:

I think I might know what your problem is. Does your trailer have LED lamps? If so, what's likely occurring is that your trailer turn signal/brake lamp circuits aren't pulling enough load for the so called 'smart' trailer connector to operate correctly.

The solution would be to install load resistors like part # DI34ZR on the two turn/brake lamp circuits on the trailer as shown in the provided diagram. Load resistors are typically used to 'fool' bulb out sensors, but they'll work for this purpose, as well.

expert reply by: Mike L