Caution for SMB Trailer owners

[Ford_6L_E350]

I've used my SMB trailer for over 10 years with my SMB. I got a new van and had to install a 7 pin connector for the electrics. I carefully checked the lights to ensure I wired the connector properly.

Discovered the Tail lights and Brake lights were reversed! Can't be reversed at the plug or the connector because the brake lights are 2 wires (right turn/left turn) while the tail lights are one wire. I had always checked the lights when I hooked up, and lights came on with the brakes, turn signals and headlights. This time I was more careful checking my work (I guess I thought the SMB work would be right) and discovered the tail lights are BRIGHT and the brake lights are dim. So, with the lights on the brakes and turn signals don't show on the trailer. Lights off I had dim brake/turn lights.

Both my light assemblies had the tail and brake light wires reversed. Cut and splice and all is well.

I doubt mine was the only trailer miswired like that.

Mike

[daveb]

Hey Mike what plug did it come with? Mine was the large standard trailer plug... not that it makes a difference because you're saying it's the light wiring itself. I've checked mine on every trip and have not found any issues but I'll look more closely. Thanks.

[carringb]

Pretty common mistake with trailer builders, because the lights are colored to commercial wiring spec (red/brown/black) and the trailer wiring kits are RV spec (Brown/Green/Yellow) and the brown isn't the same function between the two.

[REF]

more importantly......lets see that new van!