Mounting a Brake Controller in a 2005 Chevrolet Suburban

Question:

I have a 2005 suburban and have just purchased from you a Tekonsha P2 controller. My question is about the physical mounting of the unit. The suburban has two nice cubbies in the center, below the radio and heater controls. It seems to me that it would be great to put the mounting pocket into one of those. The issues are how to physically mount it in there and how to get the wiring through from the back or bottom of the compartment. Do you have any idea how much of a project it would be to do this? I really dont feel like disassembling the whole dashboard, but removing a bezel or something wouldnt be a problem. Just wondering if you have ever attempted it this way, instead of screwing a bracket to the underside of the dash.

asked by: Steven T

Expert Reply:

Mounting the Tekonsha P2 Brake Controller, part # 90885, in the center slots of your 2005 Chevrolet Suburban will take some modification. First you will want to check and make sure the brake controller will fit in either of the slots. If it does not fit you may need to remove the slot and create a modified slot so the brake controller will fit. At this time we do not have an example to give you regarding the location of the mount you are requesting.

The brake control wires from the connector that installs under the dash, # 3015-P, may not reach the length to the center mounting position. If this is the case you may need to extend those wires. You should be able to drill a hole in the side of the center plastic piece and through the back of your designated mounting slot to fish the wires through. You can use something like a wire coat hanger to fish the wires through the two holes. Be sure to drill carefully so nothing on the other side is damaged.

The key to mounting the brake controller in one of the center slots is securing the unit in the slot. The Tekonsha P2 comes with two mounting options and it may be difficult to use either in the enclosed slot without dismantling that section of the dash. If the slots are encased by a removable plastic piece, it may be easier to remove the front plastic panel and then remove the slots individually to modify them for securing the brake controller.

expert reply by: John H