Joe,
All my tail light problems have stemmed from the plug at the hitch or
corrosion at the bulb contact. I mixed up a batch of muriatic acid and H2O
and plunged the plug into it to clean the terminals. The light connection
improved immediately. Some years I have even wrapped the plug in a plastic
bag when it is not in use. As far a being "driven to drink" today it is
forest fires here in Wyoming.
Cheers, GAS