How to Inspect a Trailer Board Lamp With Plug

Date:2022-11-24

Typically, when towing a trailer, you are required to have a trailer board lamp with plug. This type of fixture provides rear lighting and provides space for a number plate. There are several different types of trailer light boards. Some are portable, and some are permanently mounted. The most common rig is the "A" rig, which has light fixtures permanently mounted on the trailer frame. This rig has positive and ground wires going to each fixture. You may also have a "B" rig, which has positive and ground wires going to each light. These are typical on motorboat trailers, although you can find them on other trailers.

The most common problem with trailer lights is that the bulbs fail or the electrical contacts are damaged. The first step is to inspect the wiring for a loose connection, or the ground wire is not secure. You can also use a wire brush to clean the mounting bolts. You should also check the ground screw for corrosion. If the trailer light has a plug and socket, it should be cleaned with a power contact cleaner. You should also check the plug's stopper contacts to make sure they are clean.

The next step is to check the wires that power the board lamps. In general, you want to use big wire ties, wireframe clips, and wire clamps to secure the wires in place. It is also a good idea to use corrosion-preventive grease on the connectors. This is especially important for the trailer wiring, which is more susceptible to corrosion than other types of wiring. If the wires are not secure, they could short circuit. Water exposure can also affect the wiring, and can cause burning filaments or cracks in plastic lenses. In addition, salt water exposure can shorten the life of the fixture.

Typical trailer light wiring harnesses are designed to have socket connections, although some vehicles have separate circuits for turning and braking lights. A quality trailer light connection plug is a seven pin flat male. This type of plug has a plastic jacket, a metal prong, and separate wires for running lights, left and right directional signals, and signals. Often, the trailer wiring harness will also have a "five flat" version, which is used on disc brake trailers. You can also purchase adapter fittings to connect a LED connector to an incandescent light socket.

If you are having trouble with a trailer light, you can check the wiring with a tow vehicle tester. This device is plugged into the connector in the tow vehicle, and the light will light up if the circuit is complete. If the lights don't light, the problem is probably a corroded contact. Using a tester is a quick and inexpensive way to determine the cause of the problem.

If the lights still won't light after you've checked the wiring, you should try to clean the contacts with a power contact cleaner. Make sure that the ground wire is secure, and that the receptacle is free from water.