How to Wire a Camper Shell Third Brake Light and Interior Lights on a 2011 Chevy Silverado

Updated 12/28/2010 | Published 12/27/2010

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Pollak Replacement 7-Pole, RV-Style Trailer Connector Socket - Vehicle End

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Derale Lighted On/Off Switch for Electric Fans

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Question:

What is the best way to hook up the brake and interior lights on a truck cap for a 2011 Silverado 1500 ext. cab, 4WD, standard bed w/ Max trailering package.

asked by: Mike H

Expert Reply:

You are going to want to find the Center High Mount Stop Light wire for the brake light on the truck cap on your 2011 Chevy Silverado. This wire is bundled with the brake controller wiring located under the dash, and held together with tape and a tag that lists the wiring functions. The wire you are looking for is orange and will have a tag on it labeled CHMSL.

For the interior lights, if they are on a switch, you can run a wire from 12 volt hot lead behind the factory 7-Way to the switch and then from the switch to the lights.

You could also use the tail light circuit to power these lights if they are not switched. The running lights would have to be on for the lights to operate.

If you want the camper shell lights to work without the taillight turned on and they did not come with a switch, you can install one using the Derale On/Off Switch, # D16740.

expert reply by: Michael H