Troubleshooting 4-Way Flashers not Working Properly for a 2001 Dodge Ram and 2002 Horse Trailer
Question:
I Have a 2001 dodge dually and a 2002 horse trailer.When I use my flashers they only flash for a short time then stop,they remain lit.When the trailer is not hooked up the flashers work ok Can you help me?
asked by: Walter R
Expert Reply:
I will be happy to help. Since the issue is only present when your truck and trailer are connected; and the truck flashers work fine without the trailer connected, I would think the problem is associated with the trailer. It sounds like using the flashers while your truck and trailer connected overloads the system.
The first think to check is to make sure that there is a good solid connection at the vehicle and trailer plug. Also, inspect the plugs and make sure they are in good working order, and there is no obvious signs of damage or corrosion.
The next item to check and the typical issue is a ground issue. You will want to make sure that everything is properly grounded. This will be the trailer wiring as well as the lights. Some lights ground through mounting hardware, to take a look at those too. You will want to make sure that the grounding wires are connected to an appropriate bare metal surface that is free of paint, rust, and debris.
You mentioned that your trailer is a horse trailer, if it is a aluminum horse trailer that might also be causing the issue. If the ground wire is currently connected to an aluminum surface, you many need to run an additional wire to a steel surface on the trailer to get a good ground. Aluminum is not considered a good grounding metal.
If the connection points all check out, and you do not see a ground issue you will also need to trace the wiring and make sure it is in good condition. Keep an eye out for any breaks, slices, or splices in the wire. Pay close attention to the wire near any pinch points or moving parts.
Another possibility, since the flashers start to work, and then remain lit you might check the fuses related to your truck wiring. The flashers may start to work but then overload the system, and this might have damaged a fuse on your truck and that may be why they are constantly lit and not flashing.
I have spoken with one of my industry contacts that specializes in vehicle and trailer wiring, and he mentioned that it might also be the TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) might be going out or might not be functioning properly on your truck. This is a module that controls several systems on your vehicle, so I would think that there may be other systems that would indicate problems. However, this is a possibility. If so I recommend having a local mechanic investigate the TIPM and check to see if it is functioning properly.
I have included links to the parts referenced above, as well as several helpful articles about troubleshooting trailer wiring for your reference.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
35 Ft 4-Way Trailer Wiring Harness - Wishbone Style - 42" Ground
- Trailer Wiring
- Trailer Connectors
- Trailer End Connector
- 31 Feet and Longer
- Plug and Lead
- 4 Flat
- Optronics
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