How to Install a Break Controller from Scratch on a 1996 Chevy Suburban

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To install the Tekonsha P2 Proportional Brake Controller, # 90885, on your 1996 Chevy Suburban, you will need a couple of items.

First, the brake controller. Next, Tow Ready Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring, # 118319, if you do not already have one. Last, a 7 and 4 Way Installation Kit, # ETBC7. You will need to hardwire the brake controller but it is not all that difficult for the average do-it-yourselfer.

Start by installing the 118319 harness. Installation is simple. The unit plugs in line with your vehicle taillights. I have included the installation details and an installation video below.

After you have the 118319 harness installed, you can hardwire the ETBC7 kit. Start by mounting the 7-Way and grounding the unit using the white wire. Connect it to an existing ground point or the vehicle frame. Next, plug the 118319 you just installed into the back of the ETBC7. There are now just a few wires left to hardwire. The purple wire will be connected to the vehicles reverse light wire.

Using the duplex cable that comes with the ETBC7 kit, connect the black wire to the black wire on the duplex cable and connect the blue wire to the white wire on the duplex cable. Next, route the duplex cable under the vehicle, avoiding areas that might pinch or burn the wire, up into the engine compartment near the battery. Next, mount the brake controller according to the instructions linked below.

Under the hood, mount a 40 amp circuit breaker. You will connect the black wire from the duplex cable first to the 40 amp circuit breaker, then to the vehicles positive battery terminal. Next, route the white wire through the fire wall, into the cab near where you mounted the brake controller.

In the cab, use a length of wire and attach it to the white wire on the brake controller. Attach another length of wire to the black wire on the brake controller. Route both wires through the firewall and into the engine compartment near the battery. Mount a 20 or 30 amp circuit breaker (see brake controller instructions for which size to use) somewhere under the hood. The black wire will connect to the 20 or 30 amp breaker and then to the positive battery terminal. The white wire will connect to the negative battery terminal.

In the cab, attach the white wire you ran earlier to the blue wire on the brake controller. Next, use a circuit tester, like the Quickee # 3808, to find the stop light wire on the brake switch located above the brake pedal. Find the wire that carries a signal ONLY when the brake pedal is pressed. Connect that wire to the red wire on the brake controller.

I have included a link below to an FAQ article on wiring a brake controller from scratch. I have also included some videos showing the installation of an ETBC7 kit and a video showing a brake controller installation on a 1993 Suburban for reference.

expert reply by: Michael H