Trailer Brake Controller Recommendation and Install Method for a 2008 GMC c5500 Topkick
Updated 05/10/2011 | Published 05/07/2011
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
Looking for wiring location for electric brake controller on 2008 c 5500.
asked by: Gene
Expert Reply:
From what I was able to find, the 2008 GMC Topkick 5500 does not have a port to plug in a brake controller wiring harness. A brake controller will have to be hardwired into the vehicle using a 4 and 7 Way Installation Kit, # ETBC7.
Usually, this would require the installation of a 4-Way wiring harness first that would then plug into the back of the ETBC7. However, there is not a 4-Way harness available for the Topkick, so you will need to clip off the 4-Way plug on the ETBC7 and hardwire the wires directly to the taillights.
Brown goes to the taillight circuit, green goes to right turn/brake light circuit, and yellow goes to the left turn/brake light circuit. The ETBC7 kit comes with 25 feet of wire but you may need more of # 10-2-1, and a circuit tester, # PTW2993, to find the correct wires on the vehicle.
After that, you can follow the installation details in the FAQ and video links I have provided for the ETBC7. For a brake controller, I recommend the Tekonsha P2, # 90885, because it is easy to set up and easy to use. I have included a link to the installation instructions for the brake controller as well.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers - GM
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Wiring Adapter
- Plugs into Brake Controller
- Vehicle Specific
- Tekonsha
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: SumoSprings Solo Custom Helper Springs - Front Axle
- Shop: Vehicle Sway Bars
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Shop: Firestone Ride-Rite Air Bags w/ Easy Mount Compressor and In-Cab Control - Single Path - 5,000 lbs
- Shop: SuperSprings Custom Suspension Stabilizer and Sway Control Kit
- Shop: Roadmaster Front Anti-Sway Bar and TruTrac Rod Kit - 1-5/8" Diameter
- Shop: Roadmaster Front Anti-Sway Bar - 1-5/8" Diameter
- Shop: Rear View Safety Camera Extension Cable - 9-1/2' Long - Male/Female Connection
- Shop: Roadmaster Front Anti-Sway Bar - 1-3/8" Diameter
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Q&A: Hole Dimensions for Hopkins 7-Way and 4-Way # HM48470
- Video: What to Know About the Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers
- Video: DIY Install: Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers on your 2005 GMC Sierra
- Video: Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller Review RED24FR
- Q&A: Is 14 Gauge Wire Too Small for Electric Trailer Brakes
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Q&A: How to Replace a Lance 6-Pin Plug w/ a Standard 7-Way Connector
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Search Results: suspension enhancement
- Video: Choosing the Right Vehicle Suspension Upgrades
- Q&A: Firestone Air Bags for 2026 Ford F-350 FX4 Dually
on Accessories and Parts
