Troubleshooting Wiring Issues on 2002 Dodge Ram Pickup And Trailer

Question

Question:

vehicle is a 2002 dodge ram pick-up What could be the reason that the brake lights and turn lights are both o.k., but the running lights on the trailer do not light

asked by: Al P

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Expert Reply:

There are a couple issues that could cause the situation you are experiencing. Start out by checking the vehicle-side trailer connector with a circuit tester such as # PTW2979 to isolate whether the issue is originating from your truck or trailer. I have included a link to a video showing how to test a 4-way flat trailer connector.

If you have OEM trailer wiring on your 2002 Dodge Ram Pickup, you can also check out the tow package fuses on the truck to make sure you do not have a blown fuse. If you have an aftermarket harness, you will definitely want to check the connection points to ensure there is not a problem there. As a reminder, these are options you will want to look at if you find a problem on the vehicle side.

If you find no issues on the vehicle, check the trailer. There is a chance you have a short somewhere in the trailers wiring. You should check the taillight circuit on the trailer for shorts. You should also check the ground connections in the process. Shorts can be caused by exposed wire, excess power draw, or corrosion on the lights of trailer connector. You will want to check your wires thoroughly to ensure your wiring is not damaged, frayed, or corroded.

I have provided a link to our FAQ page on wiring that provides useful information when troubleshooting trailer wiring.

expert reply by: Brandon M

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Answer 1

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 2

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

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Answer 3

When it comes to choosing between the Blue Ox Patriot #BLU37TR and the Brake Buddy Select 3 #HM39524, these systems are extremely similar in their setup and functionality. Both of these systems provide proportional braking in a compact and easy to…

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Answer 4

You will have to go with a sliding hitch to allow the trailer to make tight turns. For a trailer 8 feet wide the only bed length that's going to allow 90 degree turns without a slider is a stationary hitch. That being said you have two options.…

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Answer 5

Lance does have a proprietary plug, but many customers see a standard 6-way or 7-way round and notice it doesn't fit their factory 7-way as well. I've attached an article to help if you have one of the 7-way or 6-way round connectors which we…

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Answer 6

In order to determine the torque rating for the lug nuts on your trailer you will need to know check out the chart I attached that shows all of the torque specs for all the trailer lugs available based on stud size, wheel material and wheel size.

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Answer 7

The first thing you will need for your 1999 D250 is a 4-way. The Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness #C55317 plugs into the connection points behind your rear bumper and will allow you to power your trailer's signal lights. Once the 4-way is…

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Answer 8

Choosing the right height setting for your 5th wheel hitch is a combination of a few different variables. First of all you want your towing setup to be as level as possible. With your Montana High Country 340BH level you will want to measure from the…

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