RV FEATURE
MY TRAILER LIGHTS AREN ’ T WORKING
If I had to pick one electrical issue that constantly comes up for me , it would be problems with the trailer plugs . I don ’ t know why anyone hasn ’ t come up with plugs that make good , reliable connections and are immune to the effects of their environment . That said , when they play up , a few simple actions can get them working again .
First , you need to clean the contacts properly . Using the electrical contact cleaner spray , give both plugs a liberal drenching and shake them dry . This should remove most of the dirt and grime . You may need to clean inside ‘ female ’ plugs using a fine brush .
Once dry , spray the plugs with a small amount of the silicone lubricant . Connect the plugs and make sure they are a snug fit . If they feel loose , you may need to slightly prise apart the ‘ male ’ connectors with a fine screwdriver . Don ’ t go too far . You only need a gap less than 1mm wide .
The terminals of your car batteries require regular maintenance .
If you have an older caravan , the fuse box may be hard to find . Some are actually in the switch housing .
If this doesn ’ t resolve the issue , you may have problems with the wiring inside the plugs . Unscrew the plugs and take them apart carefully . Examine the point where the bare wires are screwed into the contacts . Make sure no frayed wire filaments are touching the contacts on either side of the one they should be wired to . Also , make sure there ’ s no water or mud inside the plugs as these can cause short circuits .
If the lights are still not working , you may have an issue elsewhere . Some manufacturers have a separate fuse box specifically for the trailer wiring . If in doubt , ask your manufacturer for advice . Failing that , it may be a simple case of replacing the plugs altogether . Sometimes they are beyond repair .
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