Testing a 7-Way Trailer Connector on a 2013 Chevy Silverado 2500 with the ITBC

Updated 11/01/2013 | Published 10/30/2013

Products Featured in This Question

12 Gauge Wire - Black Primary - Per Foot

(30)

$2.01

Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(6648)

$154.20

Question:

My RV trailer brakes are not working after I plug in theconnector to the truck . The truck ITBC not not show any indication on my dash , but it did the last time I used it and now my brakes seem to be locking up on my RV after I plug in the connector to the truck . Is there a correct tester to check the 7 pin male connter on the truck to make sure the truck is OK .? And can I buy it ?

asked by: Tom D

Helpful Expert Reply:

There are many different items you can use to test the 7-way trailer connector on your 2013 Chevrolet Silverado. I recommend using a circuit tester with an incandescent bulb like part # PTW2993. Simply attach the clamp from the tester to a good ground source. The exhaust pipe is a good location if you cannot find a ground stud on the vehicle frame.

The next step would be to have a helper hop into the driver seat and run through the light functions (taillights, turn signals and brake lights). This will ensure you have the circuit tester attached to a good ground source and help you make sure those functions are correct in the connector.

After that, we will want to focus on the pin in the 5 o'clock position (see photo). This is the pin for the brake output power from the brake controller in the truck. If that pin shows power all the time, then there is an issue with the brake controller on the truck. That would also explain why the brakes on the trailer lock up after you plug in the connector from the trailer. I recommend having a Chevrolet dealer take a look at the ITBC.

If the pin only shows power when the manual override is activated in the truck, then there may be a wiring issue on the trailer that is allowing power to run through the brake wire. This can happen when wires on the trailer are cut, frayed or damages and two wires are touching. I would also recommend checking the 7-way connector on the trailer for corrosion and make sure the wires in the connector have not come loose.

If you would like to bypass the ITBC and install an aftermarket brake controller, I have attached a help article that explains how to install an aftermarket brake controller for you to check out. The Tekonsha Prodigy P3, # 90195, is one of the top brake controllers on the market. We have installed this brake controller on a 2013 Chevrolet Silverado, but it did not have the ITBC originally. I attached the installation video, but you will still want to run an appropriate length of 12-gauge wire, # 12-1-1, to reach the rear of the truck as outlined in the help article, I attached.

expert reply by: John H