Troubleshooting Reverse Lamps Installed on Dump Trailer Pulled by 2000 Ford F-350

Question:

I connected the Hopkins 7 blade jacketed trailer cable with the LED smart lights, to my MaxxD tandem axle dump trailer so that I can install reverse lights. I installed 2inch LED cube lights which only have 2 wiresredand black I connected the red wires to the purple reverse wire on the 7 blade plug, and connected the black wires to the white ground wire on the 7 blade plug but the lights dont come on when in reverse and the indicator light on plug doesnt indicate continuity. What did I do wrong? Also, can I unhook the auxiliary wire to the trailer so that the led indicator light doesnt constantly drain my trailers battery? My dump trailer has an interstate battery on board along with the hydraulic pump. Appreciate any assistance. My trucks a 2000 F350 PSD

asked by: Greg H

Helpful Expert Reply:

The first thing I'd check is the center pin on the 7-way connector on your truck to make sure it's active and powers up when the transmission is placed in reverse. If it's not, you might have a missing or blown fuse.

One fuse is located in the panel under the steering column. Check the 10A fuse in location 28, and install or replace as needed. The other fuse and relay is located in the distribution box in the engine compartment which is located near the brake master cylinder that sits just above where the steering column extends through the firewall into the engine compartment. The 20A fuse is in location 4 and the relay is in location 38.

As far as the lamps go, you'll be better off grounding the white wire from your # HM48503 trailer side connector directly to the trailer frame. Make sure the ground wire for each lamp you installed is grounded to the trailer frame itself or to metal that's in direct, solid contact with the trailer frame.

You can detach that 12-v feed from the trailer connector if you wish, but one LED shouldn't draw enough power to discharge your battery unless there's a short on that circuit somewhere. That 12V feed is actually a good thing, as it can deliver a maintenance charge to your on-board trailer battery while the truck motor is running. I'd consider installing a Battery Isolation Solenoid like # PK5231201 on that 12V circuit. The solenoid will disable that feed when the ignition is shut off and eliminate any chance of that 12V feed draining your battery.

expert reply by: Mike L