Installing Aftermarket Brake Controller on 2008 Chevy Silverado with OEM Brake Controller

Published 08/27/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Activator IV Trailer Brake Controller - Up to 4 Axles - Time Delayed

(357)

$103.31

12-10 Gauge Butt Connector

(23)

$0.86

10 Gauge Wire - Blue Primary - Per Foot

(104)

$1.84

Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(2763)

$159.00

Question:

Can i hook up one of your after market controlers... The factory one has thrown loss of communication to ??? Whatever computer ...rather than starting to replace parts and struggling with a dealer yada yada yada...i am thinking of just going with aftermarket and punting the factory one if possible

asked by: Bob B

Expert Reply:

You certainly can bypass your factory controller.

I'd recommend you go with a proportional controller like the Tekonsha Prodigy P2, part # 90885. A proportional controller provides safer and more predictable braking because it matches the amount of power it sends to the trailer brakes to the intensity of the braking of the tow vehicle. The quicker the tow vehicle stops, the more power is sent to the trailer brakes.

The controller would mount to the underside of the dash, preferably to the right of the steering column within easy reach of the driver. The wires on the controller would connect to the tow package wiring as outlined in the technical bulletin I've linked you to. You'll also need to run your own length of # 10-1-1 wire from the blue wire on the controller through the firewall under the vehicle to the 7-way at the rear bumper. You'll cut the blue wire leading to the 7-way trailer connector, and connect the wire ran from the front, using butt connectors like part # 05732-2.The technical bulletin outlines the whole process.

expert reply by: Mike L