Installing the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 on a 2008 Chevy 3500 With Factory Integrated Brake Controller

Updated 11/15/2013 | Published 11/13/2013

Question:

I just bought a 2008 silverado 3500. it has the integrated brake controller and an aftermarket prodigy p2 controller. my question is do they work in conjunction with each other or is the ibc now inactive. I havent towed with it yet I was just curious as i may try one then disconnect the aftermarket and try the ibc. Is there anything I need to be aware of such as if a relay is removed or anything else with an aftermarket installed. Thanks in advance for your help.

asked by: Tony E

Helpful Expert Reply:

Either the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 # 90885, or the factory integrated brake controller is operating and sends the brake signal to your vehicle 7-way. They do not operate simultaneously, and only one will be operational at a time. Trying to use both simultaneously will cause a short circuit on both the integrated and the aftermarket brake controllers.

If the P2 is installed in your 2008 Chevy 3500 then it is sending the signal to your truck 7-way connection point. To install the P2, there is an additional length of wire (usually blue) that is run from the brake signal output on the P2, (always blue) to the 7-way on your truck. This wire is then spliced into the integrated brake controller wire and works as a bypass. Then the brake signal is being sent through the P2 to the 7-way, and not using the integrated brake controller wiring.

To install the P2 it is also necessary to make two connections on the under hood fuse box. One is the power to the P2, the other is the power for the 12V accessory wire on the vehicle 7-way. There is already a red wire that is connect to the larger silver stud, this is the power wire for the integrated brake controller, this wire does not have to be removed for the P2 to function properly.

If you would like to tow and see which you prefer you can change the wiring arrangements to use either the integrated brake controller or the P2. We have had great customer reviews with the P2, and it is one of our highest selling brake controllers.

I have included a helpful article that explains the process of installing a P2 on a GM vehicle with a factory installed integrated brake controller. You can follow this process to see how the P2 is installed and if you choose to disconnect and re-install the P2, the process is very straight forward. There are no relays required, just a few wiring connection points, depending on which brake controller you choose to use.

I have included a link to the parts listed above, and a couple of helpful articles for your reference.

expert reply by: Rachael H