How Does a Trailer Brake Controller Sense when a Trailer is Connected on a 2011 Chevy Silverado

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

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter BrakeRite II Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator Kit - Vented - 1,500 psi

(37)

$1245.41

Dexter BrakeRite SD Adapter for Ford/Chevy Integral Brake Controllers

(25)

$185.09

Question:

I have a 2011 chev 2500 with factory trailer brakes controller. it works with one trailer but does not sense another and so doesnt work. how does it sense when a trailer is connected?

asked by: Bruce H

Expert Reply:

Aftermarket brake controllers send a small amount of voltage along the brake output wire, if a trailer is connected, the magnets in the brake assemblies will create a power draw. This power draw tells the controller that a trailer is connected.

The integrated brake controller in your 2011 Chevy Silverado could possibly work in the same manner. I do not have much experience with them to say for sure. What I do know is that integrated brakes controllers often have trouble with electric over hydraulic systems.

If the trailer you are having problems with has electric over hydraulic brakes, there is system you can use, the Titan BrakeRite I Plug and Play Electric-Hydraulic Actuator Kit, # T4813102, and adapter # T4845900.

For drum brakes you would add the reducer # T4844100 to the actuator # T4813102 and then still use the same adapter # T4845900.

The other option is to install an aftermarket brake controller that is compatible with electric over hydraulic systems. I recommend the Tekonsha P2, # 90885. It works with electric and electric over hydraulic systems. I have included a link to the installation details and a link to an FAQ explaining how to install an after market controller in a truck equipped with a factory controller.