Troubleshooting No Power to the Trailer Brake Controller on a 2008 Chevy Avalanche

Updated 10/14/2010 | Published 10/13/2010

Question:

Is there a fuse in line on the power supply wire to the brake controller

asked by: Jim H

Expert Reply:

There are a couple of connections you may need to make under the hood to finalize the brake controller # 5504 installation. Under the hood on the driver side, remove the power distribution box lid. Once removed, you will see a ring terminal directly to the right of the power distribution box (between the box and driver side of the truck). There may be some tape holding it in place. Just cut the tape to release the ring terminal.

Next, route the wire to the front of the power distribution box and attach it to the left post (M6 stud). While under the hood, check to make sure the ring terminal that provides 12 volt power to the 7-Way trailer connector is also connected. This terminal will be located to the left of the power distribution box, taped to a harness under the power brake booster. Again, cut the tape to release it and route the wire to the front of the box and attach it to the right post (M8 stud).

Use properly sized nuts to secure the ring terminals. You will then need to insert a 30 amp fuse into the corresponding spot to power the brake controller. For the 12 volt to the 7-Way, a 40 amp fuse into the corresponding spot on the power distribution box. Once the connections are finished you can replace the lid to the power distribution box to complete installation. I have included a link to an FAQ article with the above information for reference.

expert reply by: Michael H