Parts Needed to Install a 7-Way Trailer Connector on a 2000 Chevrolet Silverado 1500  

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You can install the Reese Multi-Tow 7-Way and 4-Way Trailer Connector, # 74682, if your 2000 Chevrolet Silverado came with a factory installed 7-way trailer connector. There is a factory harness that plugs into the back of the factory 7-way connector. You will simply unplug the harness from the factory 7-way and plug it into the round connector on the Multi-Tow replacement.

If your truck did not come with a factory 7-way connector, some Silverado trucks came with the tow package wiring pre-installed even if they did not come with a tow package. Not all trucks came with the wiring pre-installed, but you can look for the wires at the rear of your truck near the spare tire. Sometimes the wires have been found tucked above the spare tire, so you can check there as well.

If you are able to find those wires, you can install the Pollak 7-Way and 4 Pole Trailer Connector and Harness, # PK11898. You will simply connect the wires from your truck to the wires on this harness to have a functioning 7-way connector. The wire color functions for the Pollak harness are listed on the product page and I recommend testing the wires on your truck to determine the function of those wires. Connecting the wires color for color is not always the best practice because vehicle manufactures do not follow a typical color code. If some of the wires do not work, then you may need to install some fuses to activate the tow package wiring.

If your truck does not have the tow package wires pre-installed, then we will want to take a different route. The first item you will want to install is a 4-way flat trailer connector like the Curt Trailer Wire Harness, part # C59496. This harness will splice into your tail light wires and provide tail light functions for the trailer connector. This kit also includes a powered converter to protect your trucks electrical system from possible trailer shorts.

The next item you will want to install is our Universal 7-Way and 4-Way Installation Kit, # ETBC7. This kit provides the necessary wires and hardware to complete the installation of a 7-way trailer connector. It also includes the wires needed to install a brake controller if you choose. I have attached installation instructions for the Curt Trailer Wire Harness and the installation kit, # ETBC7, for you to check out.

expert reply by: John H

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