Installing a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2008 Chevy Express Van with Factory Tow Package
Updated 11/09/2011 | Published 11/08/2011
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Question:
I am installing a brake controller on this van, it originally had the factory towing harness installed. The trailer connector was in the frame and just plugged right in. Then I found the wires under the instrument panel for the brake controller. I was testing them and the blue/white wire had voltage when braking, but the power wire didnt have power. I went to the underhood fuse panel to install the fuses for the auxiliary power and the brake controller and there isnt any contacts in the fuse panel the openings are there but nothing to make contact to.I am confused Please Help.
asked by: Terry W
Expert Reply:
The good news is that you are well on your way to completing the installation on your 2008 Chevy Express Van. What you will want to do to complete the installation is to first locate the output wire for the electric brakes. It is located under the dash near the emergency brake pedal and it will connect to the brake controller blue wire.
The wire you found that goes hot when you step on the brake connects to the red wire on the brake controller. That will just leave the 12 volt power wire (black) and the ground (white). The power wire that you found that has no power could terminate anywhere, so it would be easier just to hardwire the last 2 connections.
You will just need a length of # 10-2-1 wire, long enough to reach from the brake controller, through the firewall and engine compartment, and over to the battery. And, instead of fuses, you will need a circuit breaker. In the 10-2-1 wire, attach black to black and white to white. Route the other end through the firewall and into the engine compartment. Avoid areas that may pinch or burn the wire and route the wire over to the battery.
Attach a ring terminal to the white wire and connect it to the negative battery terminal. For the black wire, first you will mount a circuit breaker to the metal of the engine compartment. For 2 to 4 brake assemblies on the trailer, use a 20 amp circuit breaker, # PK54520. For 6 to 8 brake assemblies use a 30 amp breaker, # PK54530.
Route the black wire to the AUX post (clip off extra wire, it will be needed next). Attach a ring terminal and attach the wire to the AUX post. On the extra wire, attach another ring terminal to one end and attach it to the BAT post. Route the wire to the positive battery terminal, attach a ring terminal, and connect it to the positive battery terminal.
To add the 7-Way, since you have the plug on the frame rail, use the Replacement Multi-Tow 7-Way and 4-Way Trailer Connector, # 30955.
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Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
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