Parts Needed for Brake Controller Installation on a 1990 Chevy 1500 and 2003 Chevy Silverado 1500

Updated 06/23/2011 | Published 06/22/2011

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Activator IV Trailer Brake Controller - Up to 4 Axles - Time Delayed

(357)

$103.31

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

(3397)

$121.25

Hopkins Plug-In Simple Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(51)

$25.59

Twist-in, 7-Pole, RV-Style Trailer Connector for Chevy and GMC Vehicles - Vehicle End

(617)

$17.20

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

(60)

$12.27

Question:

Im looking at the 5504-2-8 Brake Electronic Brake Control. I want to put this control on my 1990 CK1500 4x4 5.7 liter 350 Chevy pickup turck. Will this control work with my truck and, what other items will I need to instal this control? I also have a 2003 CK1500 5.3 liter Chevy Silverodo with a factory instaled tow package. Will the 5504-2-8 control work on it as well and, what other items will I need to instal the control on it? Thank you

asked by: Mark B

Expert Reply:

You can certainly use the Activator IV Brake Controller, # 5504, on both your 1990 Chevy and the 2003 model. For the 1990, you will need the brake controller, 4-Way wiring harness # HM41115 (unless the truck already has it), and a 4 and 7 Way Installation Kit, # ETBC7.

You will first install the 4-Way wiring harness. I have included a link to the installation instructions for you to view. You will then install the ETBC7. I have included a link to an FAQ article and video that explain the installation. It will also cover installing the brake controller.

To install the brake controller in the 2003 Silverado, you will need the Activator IV Brake Controller, # 5504, and the Draw-Tite GM Adapter, # 3015-S. If the truck did not come with a factory trailer connector, you will also need to install part # PK11916.

The brake controller wiring harness plugs into a port located in an electrical junction box to the left of the brake pedal. There may be some additional connections you will need to make under the hood to make the brake controller and 7-Way fully functional. I have included a link to an FAQ article that will explain the installation process.

The only other part you may need for both installation is a circuit tester, # PTW2993, if you do not already have one.