Trailer tail lights stay on when nothing is powered

Discussion in 'Refrigerated Trucking Forum' started by Jennyspete, Feb 19, 2021.

  1. SteveScott

    SteveScott Road Train Member

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    Nov 10, 2015
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    I made the mistake of letting a TA "mechanic" brake light issue on my practically new trailer a couple years ago. Long story short, he "accidentally" crossed some wires and left other wires exposed to the elements, and I wound up spending $1,100 on a new wiring harness several months later at a Utility dealership. Similar symptoms to what you're seeing on your trailer now.
     
    slow.rider Thanks this.
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  3. jamespmack

    jamespmack Road Train Member

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    Look inside the actual plug. Experienced disgruntled Co. Drivers have been known to push junk/copper wire in 7way. Causing multiple circuits to power up. And how often does anyone look inside.
     
    Ten Bears19 and DoubleO7 Thank this.
  4. Jennyspete

    Jennyspete Light Load Member

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    Apr 3, 2010
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    Well its been awhile but I thought I'd post what the solution was. We found that a wire was shorting out at the back of the trailer in one of the small harnesses for the tail lights. How that caused so many issues I have no idea. Electrical is like magic to me. Thanks for everyone's suggestions.
     
    RocketScott and slow.rider Thank this.
  5. RocketScott

    RocketScott Medium Load Member

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    Apr 10, 2013
    Kentucky
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    Thanks for coming back to update, many don't

    Current will find a path to ground however it can. Because trailers don't use a dedicated ground wire and in stead ground through the frame/chassis of the trailer weird stuff happens
     
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