tow fuse for 1997 Chev 1500 Express Van

wgander

Cadet
Joined
Mar 26, 2004
Messages
28
Anyone know if there's a separate fuse for the factory installed trailer wiring harness?<br />I've been having problems with the trailer lighting. I replaced it and have the same problems, such as dim turn signals when the running lights are on. Last night, the fuse for the instrument panel/running lights blew - I replaced it. I'm convinced it's not the trailer wiring. I replaced the short 4 wire harness on the van today and one of those plug in light checkers didn't show any operating lights. I disconnected that harness and used a 12 volt continuity light on the factory harness. With the clip to the ground wire, I didn't get a continuity light when I touched the probe to any of the other bared wires (run,turn, brake). The owners manual doesn't mention anything about a separate fuse and none of the fuses listed in the operators manual or fuse panel indicate they'd control the trailer wiring.<br />The van lights work OK.
 
D

DJ

Guest
Re: tow fuse for 1997 Chev 1500 Express Van

Bill,<br /><br />Are you sure that vehicle has a factory harness?<br /><br />You will not get continuity on the brake, turn wires unless the key is on and they are activated.<br /><br />How is your TRAILER harness grounded?
 

wgander

Cadet
Joined
Mar 26, 2004
Messages
28
Re: tow fuse for 1997 Chev 1500 Express Van

Yes, it's a factory harness. I bought the van new from the dealer with the factory tow package already installed. The wire harness was tucked under the frame in the rear, all nicely labeled, when I first bought it and added the 4 wire harness for my trailer. (The factory harness is just wire - no connections on the end.) All the lights have worked for several years.<br />When I used the harness connection light checker, and then the continuity probe, I had the key on and signals/hazard light activated.<br />The harness from the vehicle to the trailer connection is grounded to the vehicle trailer wiring harness; the trailer lights are grounded to the trailer and the 4 wire trailer harness also has a ground connection to the vehicle.<br />But, I donm't think the trailer's the problem, anway, since the continuity light never gave me an indication of power on the vehicle trailer wiring harness.
 

Richok

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Mar 16, 2004
Messages
97
Re: tow fuse for 1997 Chev 1500 Express Van

Bill you should have a fuse for the trailer harness. I think that vehicle has an underhood fuse/relay box.
 
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