Backup Light Connection Issue - Need Advice
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Trailering
Joined: Apr 2020
Posts: 21
Likes: 3
From: Texas
Backup Light Connection Issue - Need Advice
Hello All,
This weekend, I installed an LED light strip just above the bumper (below the tailgate). It came with a harness with a 4 pin connection to plug into the trailer 4-pin. This worked great and covered every function (left, right, brake, hazard) with exception for the backup light circuit. By reading other posts, I connected the backup wire for the LED strip to the backup wire from the rear side of the 7-pin connection (center wire) utilizing a T-splice connector. Everything works as it should. However, on the way into work today, I kept getting “Trailer Connected” and “Trailer Disconnected” warning messages. I could not seem to replicated it in a way that I can pinpoint when or what drives the message (i.e. every time I used a turn indicator or every time I hit the brakes). The 4 pin connector is solidly in place and has dielectric grease appropriately applied. I did not employ any type of relay with the install.
Any thoughts would be most appreciated.
This weekend, I installed an LED light strip just above the bumper (below the tailgate). It came with a harness with a 4 pin connection to plug into the trailer 4-pin. This worked great and covered every function (left, right, brake, hazard) with exception for the backup light circuit. By reading other posts, I connected the backup wire for the LED strip to the backup wire from the rear side of the 7-pin connection (center wire) utilizing a T-splice connector. Everything works as it should. However, on the way into work today, I kept getting “Trailer Connected” and “Trailer Disconnected” warning messages. I could not seem to replicated it in a way that I can pinpoint when or what drives the message (i.e. every time I used a turn indicator or every time I hit the brakes). The 4 pin connector is solidly in place and has dielectric grease appropriately applied. I did not employ any type of relay with the install.
Any thoughts would be most appreciated.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Feb 2021
Posts: 1,405
Likes: 1,171
From: East TN
I ran my LED backup lights on my F-150 exactly like you describe for 4 years with no issues at all. On my Super Duty I used a relay tied to the lighting circuit so they only illuminate if the lights are on too. As far as I can see I do not see detection circuitry on the reverse wire circuit. I would double check your big connectors going to the hitch, etc. under the truck.
Mountain Pass
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 194
Likes: 58
you cannot use the 4 pin on the bumper. there is a splitter pigtail that goes in the wire harness above the spare tire. some also have an extra 1 wire lead for the reverse light so no splicing needed. had to do the same thing on my sled deck.
Thread Starter
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Trailering
Joined: Apr 2020
Posts: 21
Likes: 3
From: Texas
you cannot use the 4 pin on the bumper. there is a splitter pigtail that goes in the wire harness above the spare tire. some also have an extra 1 wire lead for the reverse light so no splicing needed. had to do the same thing on my sled deck.
https://youtu.be/YreVxl-FLoM
https://youtu.be/YreVxl-FLoM
Senior User
Joined: Jul 2020
Posts: 176
Likes: 18
I purchased the pigtail/splitter and re-installed. Still have the same issue…getting “trailer disconnected”, “trailer turn signal fault” types of messages. As an aside, prior to ever installing, I would occasionally get these messages when towing the airstream…got di-electric grease as a possible solution but no bueno. It did not happen as frequently as it does now. Now, every time I put the brakes or turn indicators on, I get a message. About ready to rip it out and throw it in the trash.
Rule #1: Fix any "weirdness" prior to adding aftermarket items.
Rule #2: See rule #1.
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