Brake Controller, Trailer Hitch and Wiring Recommendation for 2013 Chevy Express Van

Updated 03/20/2018 | Published 03/19/2018

Products Featured in This Question

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

(3469)

$120.66

Question:

I have a 2013 Chevy Express van 3500. I want to add a Class 4 hitch, 7 way connector and trailer brake controller. The trailer has 2 axles and a GVW of 12,000 lbs. I do not have a particular brand in mind but I like the Curtis Class 4 no drilling hitch, and the Tekonsha Primus IQ controller. My questions: 1. I do not know if the van is pre-wired for a trailer, is there a simple way of determining this? 2. If it not wired for a trailer what wiring kit options do you have? I would like a complete kit that will handle lights and trailer brake. I would prefer a lighting kit that isolates the van from the trailer. 3. If I find the van is already wired for a 7 way connector is there an isolation kit available? I would greatly appreciate any and all comments. Pro and Con. Thank you very much for your time

asked by: David

Helpful Expert Reply:

Your 2013 Chevy Express Van does not have factory brake controller pre-wiring regardless of it has the factory 7-way or not. Either way you'd have to hardwire the brake controller to the 7-way. Since you do not have a hitch most likely you do not have any trailer wiring at this time.

You will need to start with a 4-way (if you do not have one). For that you would want the # 31345 since you said you wanted the trailer wiring isolated from the van wiring.

From there you would need to convert the 4-way to a 7-way so that you can install the brake controller. For that you will want the Brake Controller Install Kit and 7-Way Adapter part # ETBC7. I attached installation instructions and an install video for this product as well.

For a brake controller I would recommend the Prodigy P2 Brake Controller part # 90885. This is our best selling brake controller because of how well it works and how easy it is to setup.

The Curt Class IV hitch you wanted part # 14090 would be a great fitting option as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C