How to Install A Brake Controller On A 1997 Chevrolet K2500

Updated 12/21/2010 | Published 12/19/2010

Products Featured in This Question

7- and 4-Pole Trailer Connector Socket w/ Mounting Bracket - Vehicle End

(2638)

$43.19

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(135)

$26.43

Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires

(3397)

$121.19

Question:

I am putting a brake controller in a 1997 K2500 chevy truck. I am having trouble locating the brake light wire in the cab for the controller. Any ideas or suggestions?

asked by: Bill

Expert Reply:

Some models of the 1997 Chevrolet K2500 do have the brake (blue) and hot lead (orange or red) wires already ran from under the hood to the end of the driver's side frame rail. However, these wires are hard to access and additional wire will still be needed.

To install a brake controller on your 1997 Chevrolet K2500 you will need to have a 4-way trailer connector on the rear of your vehicle and then you will need to hardwire the brake controller with the Brake Controller 7 & 4 Way Installation Kit # ETBC7.

If you need to install a 4-way connector on your vehicle, you will use the Tow Ready T-One Wiring Harness # 118315. This harness will plug into a connector located on the drivers side rear frame rail near the bumper. I am sending a link to the installation instructions for the wiring harness.

Then, you will need to hardwire the brake controller to your vehicle with the # ETBC7 kit. The # ETBC7 Installation Kit, comes with a new 7-Way and 4-Way connector which will plug into the 4-way trailer connector on the back of your vehicle. The 4 remaining wires on the connector will be hardwired to the vehicle.

I am sending a link to detailed instructions on how to install the # ETBC7 kit on your vehicle and a video link of the # ETBC7 kit being installed on a 2003 Chevy Express Van. The vehicle is different, but the wiring principle is the same.