JSGlow
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Joined 21 years ago
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Re: Electrical issue
BTPO1 wrote: JSGlow wrote: No to sound too naive but I did not previously know that the hitch itself was part of the circuit. IMO the hitch could be part of the system, but it is not a very good ground. There should always be a separate ground wire (White) installed. JMO There is a white wire. It's part of the 4 wire lead. As I recall they are black, green, yellow and white. My boat frame is enclosed tubular steel so the combined wires enter a little hole on the neck and then emerge by each taillight. An examination this morning reveals black, white and one of green/yellow at each taillight. Having had to fool with the right light last year when I had a short, my recollection is that white ground wire is attached to the trailer frame on the mounting plate behind the actual plastic turn signal fixture. That one alone had been giving me problems and a little TLC last summer cured the problem. Again, yesterday was unusual in that I initially had 100% good running lights but nothing else, followed later by running lights and 100% good left (blinker and break) but no blinker/break on right. With 45 more miles under my belt all the problems had seemingly corrected themselves 100%. That doesn't suggest a short back at either light to me and made the hitch discussion make a ton of sense. I cleaned it up further as a result. Again, happy to get feedback from more folks who know.304Views0likes0CommentsRe: Electrical issue
Thanks Roy. I think I'll buy one. Pretty sure it was the hitch. Did full test this morning here at home (trailer still fully hitched) and all was fine. I'm thinking that the friction on the way home cleaned things up enough. After disconnecting I took a light sandpaper to both the ball and trailer receiver. Both were pretty gunky, especially the trailer. No to sound too naive but I did not previously know that the hitch itself was part of the circuit.306Views0likes0CommentsElectrical issue
Just a little advice from my accomplished electricians out there. Yesterday we picked up our boat from winter storage and had trouble getting our lights to work on the trailer. Initially all I was able to get were my running lights. No turn or breaks signals. Figured I'd limp it home and work on the issue later. Did a quick check and found that by midway through the trip both left turn signal and left break light were now working properly, but not the right. Got home and found the right turn signal also working. Couldn't tell on the break at that moment because I was alone. Note that this is the first time here in 2015 that anything has been plugged into my to vehicle. I suspect that I've just got some corrosion on the TV (male) side of the pig tail. All other parts and cords were stored inside for the winter and I don't think I have a short. Would you agree? And what's your recommendation for 'cleaning' and improving the connection? Thanks!1.2KViews0likes7CommentsReplacement for a V-8 Explorer?
Our Explorer is getting up there both in years and miles. Probably about time to think about a replacement. Our Hybrid trailer out the door is probably 5000 lbs and I always felt our V8 rated at 7300 was a good match. But they are getting increasingly difficult to find. Need to stay in the SUV market for a variety of reasons. Not interested in a pickup. Suggestions? We're of course thinking used. This is primarily a winter and tow vehicle at this stage in our lives.3.4KViews0likes14CommentsRe: At what age did your kids stop camping with you?
My kids stopped at about 16-17 when jobs, HS sports, and access to Facebook became more important. They're now college students and while our time is very limited because of other commitments they have, both have expressed interest in trying to get out again. Currently planning a 4-day weekend with my son the week after the community pool closes (he's Head Lifeguard) and just before he heads back to college for his Sophomore year.440Views0likes0CommentsRe: Hitch on the back and transporting a canoe
I wouldn't personally add a bike rack to the back of my trailer. Too much bounce in my mind. Have heard stories where bikes were lost presenting a serious highway hazzard. Canoe/kayak on top of the tow vehicle is standard operating procedure. Several manufacturers make nice racks. My Thule allows our canoe to ride above the standard Ford Explorer factory rack.295Views0likes0CommentsRe: New camper. Water features
You'll quickly get the hang of all your systems. Coming from a tent camping background I know how to conserve so we routinely have the hot water heater off (unless there's a future need) and leave our pump off. But there is no correct answer except to use LOTS of fresh water in the black tank. Water in that spot is your friend.346Views0likes0CommentsRe: Full tank of Propane=How many days of usage?
Concur with some of the above posts. In cool weather access to electricity is the key either via shore or a genset. We love the dual tank setup as I've never worried about propane. I always know I have 1+ tanks at my disposal. Agree with electric heat as a 'base' if power is available.381Views0likes0Comments
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Prefer to camp in a travel trailer? You're not alone.Jan 21, 202544,029 Posts
