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

Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers - GM

(1194)

$18.48

Deka Jacketed 2 Wire, 10 Gauge, Brake Wire - per Foot

(323)

$2.72

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

(2776)

$159.43

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

(3416)

$134.98

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

(62)

$13.94

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.