Testing trailer lights with a truck may seem convenient, but it adds another variable to the diagnostic process. If the trailer lights, brake lights, turn signals or 12V circuit are not working properly, how do you know if the issue is on the trailer or the tow vehicle?
That is why technicians, fleets and trailer owners use the IPA® Ranger MUTT®.
Your Truck Is Not a Trailer Tester
When you plug a trailer into a truck to test it, the truck becomes part of the circuit. If the truck has a bad ground, blown fuse, weak connector, wiring issue or faulty module, it can make the trailer look like the problem.
This can lead to misdiagnosis, wasted time and unnecessary repairs.
Common issues caused by testing trailers with a truck include:
- Confusing truck faults with trailer faults
- Missing intermittent trailer lighting problems
- Wasting time checking the wrong system
- Replacing trailer parts that are not defective
- Sending equipment out before confirming every circuit
- Delaying inspections because a tow vehicle is needed
Before blaming the trailer, remove the truck from the equation.
Test Trailer Lights Without the Tow Vehicle
The Ranger MUTT® is a portable trailer light tester designed to independently power trailer circuits without using a truck. Instead of relying on the tow vehicle, technicians can connect the Ranger MUTT® directly to the trailer and manually cycle through the lighting and auxiliary functions.
The manual control knob allows users to test key trailer circuits, including:
- Running lights
- Brake lights
- Left turn signal
- Right turn signal
- Hazard/flasher functions
- 12V auxiliary circuit
This makes it easier to see what is working before the trailer hits the road.
Portable Trailer Testing Built for Real Use
The Ranger MUTT® is built for real-world trailer maintenance, inspections and pre-trip checks. Its portable design makes it easy to use in the shop, yard, roadside or field without needing a truck nearby.
Whether you are checking an RV, utility trailer, cargo trailer, boat trailer, work trailer or fleet trailer, the Ranger MUTT® helps confirm trailer lighting operation faster and more accurately.
Made in the USA, Water Resistant and Backed by IPA®
The Ranger MUTT® is made in the USA, built with a water-resistant design and backed by a 1-year warranty. IPA® also provides 24/7 technical support, giving technicians confidence when diagnosing trailer electrical issues.
For shops, fleets and trailer owners, the Ranger MUTT® helps reduce guesswork, improve inspections and prevent avoidable lighting problems before they become roadside issues.
Stop using your truck as a trailer tester. Use the Ranger MUTT® to isolate the trailer, test each circuit and know what is working before you go.
