Why Replace The Bracket?
1. Severe Rust & Corrosion (Most Common Cause)
Why: Long-term exposure to moisture, mud, and road salt causes the metal bracket to oxidize and rust.
Consequence: Rust weakens the bracket's structure, risking breakage. It can also impair electrical grounding, leading to malfunctioning trailer lights (brake, turn signals).
2. Physical Damage & Impact
Why: Accidents like backing into the trailer coupler, scraping, or other impacts.
Consequence: The bracket bends, cracks, or breaks. This prevents securely holding the plug in the correct position, risking further damage to the connector and wiring.
3. Improper Installation or Metal Fatigue
Why: Previous incorrect installation, use of wrong hardware, or stress from long-term vibration causing metal fatigue.
Consequence: A loose or cracked bracket makes the entire connector assembly shaky, leading to unreliable connection and potential failure.