1974 Eco Camper - Lights do not work

[BrowningSchubarth]

We have a 1974 Eco Camper that has been quite flawless, but I realized when we went to bring it home from storage, the lights on the camper do not work. I'm really hoping to take it out in the next couple of weeks but we need the lights to work. How can we troubleshoot and fix this? Any recommendations. I am home for the next few days and I hope to spend some quality time with it. Any info helps! I will take some photos tomorrow during the day time!

[Tom 72]

Others may have clearer advice. If it were me, I would start with a multimeter that can measure the presence of 12 volts. Beginning at the tow vehicle's trailer connector, I would check for voltage. Next check the trailer side of the connector. If current is there, then I'd check halfway to the lamp on the trailer. If current is there, go 3/4 of way to lamp, etc. If no current halfway to trailer lamp, keep bisecting the distance in half, until you know where current is, and is not. You may find a cut wire or a short grounding it out. Aside from the metal frame, I'm not sure where it could short. Good luck.
PS, if no current on tow vehicle connector, of course work backwards, bisecting the distance on tow vehicle.

Plan B. Run new wires to lamps, and attach with zip ties.

[The Minimalist]

I assume you are only talking about the actual trailer lights; stop, turn, brake, etc. If everything was working and now doesn't, check the ground. If you don't have a good ground you won't get lights. Normally you will find a ground wire somewhere close to the hitch. It's likely either corroded or got broken unhitching or moving the trailer.

[BrowningSchubarth]

Here are some photos.

[BrowningSchubarth]

[BrowningSchubarth]

[John in Michigan]

In your 2nd photo, the "ground" wire or common wire is the white wire. If that wire is loose or if the pin connected to that wire is corroded/dirty, the result may be that none of your lights work. You can improve the pins and matching sockets by spraying some electrical contact cleaner on them or applying electrical contact grease.

Also, have the lights EVER worked for you?

[Borrego Dave]

Originally Posted by BrowningSchubarth

Here are some photos.

You're showing two different type plugs, 6 pin round & 7 pin blade. Which one are you using?

[BrowningSchubarth]

Originally Posted by Borrego Dave

You're showing two different type plugs, 6 pin round & 7 pin blade. Which one are you using?

One connects to the camper with the wires, the black one connects to my car. It double posted photos but there are only 2 different.

[BrowningSchubarth]

It was actually my fuse on my car! Phew!!