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Tim Can · 05-07-2007, 08:06 PM

I'm in Southern California and just got a new old '77 Argosy Minuet 6.0 and can't wait to get out. Inside is clean, outside could use paint...but paint won't stop me from going camping ASAP. When I drove it home, the tail lights worked fine. However, (after washing the trailer) now they no longer come on when connected to the tow connection. I don't have the manual so I don't know where to begin troubleshooting. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Plan to take to RV center to have checked out before a long haul, but will probably take to the beach since it's close.

My wife got me subscription to "Airstream Life" last Christmas. Anybody familiar w/ growing up and drooling over the Sears catalogue around the holidays knows what I was going through. Look forward to many years of joy.

Tim

Lumatic · 05-07-2007, 08:19 PM

If you don't have one get a test light. Take the lens off and see if you got juice to the bulb receptacle. If you do it's a loose bulb connection or corrosion or a bad bulb. If no juice check there is electricity coming out of the tow vehicle. Also check if you are grounded to the TV. If yes, check the fuses in the TV. Depending on the vehicle even if the TV's lights work some tow vehicles have seperate fuses and relays for the towee.

**moosetags** · 05-07-2007, 08:23 PM

Welcome to the Forums. We're glad to have you with us.

KeithC · 05-07-2007, 08:25 PM

Welcome from another "new guy" here. I have a 1968 Tradewind.

The folks here are great and have a vast knowledge of Airstream maintenance issues.

I ran into a similar situation as you...all the electrican worked fine, the outside of the Airstream required a good washing. After washing there were electrical connection issues to deal with.

If everything worked well before, your wiring is fine, you just have an electrical connection problem.Try a spray can product designed for electrical connection cleaning sold at NAPA, Autozone, etc. It will say something to the effect of "electrical contact cleaner". The spray cleans the contacts.

It costs $3 to $6 bucks, spray it thoroughly, no flame or lit cigarette nearby as it will light you up, too. A cheap quick trouble shooting tool.

Good luck. Airstreams are easy to fix, you'll love yours.

Tim Can · 05-07-2007, 08:37 PM

Thanks for the replies. As implied, I'm encouraged that I don't have a major electrical disaster. I'll try the spray on the contacts and change a few bulbs. I've tested the tow vehicle by connecting to a utility trailer to see if the lights worked. Checked out fine.

I followed the electrical connection into the trailer and under the seat to see if any fuses were blown. All fuses "appear" to be ok. Did not attempt to do a continuity test across the fuses because I have no idea of the circuitry and did not want to make a minor problem become a major problem.

Regardless, it's great to have the wisdom that this forum brings. Thanks

Tim

Goin camping · 05-08-2007, 12:11 AM

Welcome fellow Angelino!

You are surrounded by campin Airstreamers. If you see "NorCal" or "Not really a rally" anywhere that means we are going campin and you are invited.

I know you'll get the taillights fixed and we'll see you around the campfire soon.