Will Installation of a Even Brake System on a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox Dinghy Affect the Brake Lights

Question:

I just purchased a 2011 equinox to replace my saturn vue as a dingy. i plan on using supplemental braking on the equinox as it 500lbs heavier. my question is when i wire the lights will i have to wire the brake lights in or will the even brake system turn the brake lights on when the pedal is depressed. or if ido wire it in will any thing be damaged when the lights are turned on by both systems? thank you

asked by: Thomas M

Expert Reply:

For your 2011 Chevrolet Equinox, you will not have to worry about the brake lights from the towing vehicle interfering with the brake lights on the dinghy when the brakes and Even Brake system are activated.

You will need to use a Roadmaster Stop Light Switch Kit, # RM-751439, for your vehicle. This kit will bypass the Equinox braking system making your wiring completely separate from the vehicle brake light system. You will still need to wire the Equinox for towing just like you did the previous dinghy.

The reason for this is that fuses must be pulled on the Equinox for flat towing, and the vehicle brake lights will not operate off of the brake pedal. You should check the vehicle owners manual for procedures required for flat towing.

If you are purchasing the Even Brake new or have removed the transmitter, breakaway switch and wiring for the Even Brake system from the previous vehicle, you will not need any other parts. If you did not remove those parts you will need the Roadmaster Even Brake 2nd Vehicle Kit, item # RM-98400.

An option for your vehicle that you may want to consider is an Auto Battery Disconnect, RM-765, to make sure that the battery does not get drained when towing.

expert reply by: Bob G