Best Trailer Hitch, 7-Way Wiring Harness And Brake Controller For 1986 Vandura 3500 Short Bus

Updated 01/02/2025 | Published 12/31/2024

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(31)

$287.83

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

(6679)

$161.44

Adjustable Width Trailer Hitch Receiver for RVs, 18" to 51" Wide

(566)

$282.73

Curt Powered Tail Light Converter with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(1704)

$80.33

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

(3416)

$134.95

Question:

I just bought a 1986 GMC Vandura 3500 short bus and I was wondering if the Curt c13016 hitch would work for that? Also, any recommendations for brake controller and seven pin bumper plug?

asked by: Mark M

1986 GMC Vandura 3500 short bus
(click to enlarge)

Helpful Expert Reply:

Hey Mark, thanks for reaching out, and cool bus! The Curt # C13016 hitch you mentioned is for the 1978 - 1996 Chevrolet Van which generally excludes the school bus models. What I can tell you is the # C13016 hitch is 40.87" wide from hole to hole, so what you could do is compare this to the frame of your bus. As long as the width is good, the mounting holes are present on the frame and there are no obstructions the hitch can be used.

If the width of your frame is different, the Adjustable Width Trailer Hitch Receiver part # C13702 will be a better option that has a much better chance of fitting. This hitch is adjustable between 18" and 51" wide so it can be made to fit a wide variety of frame styles.

As far as wiring, the Curt # C59236 combined with the # ETBC7 kit is what I recommend. This will have everything you need to add a 4-flat and 7-way to your bus, including all of the necessary wires for a brake controller. For the controller I recommend the Tekonsha P3 # 90195 just because it is super well reviewed, durable and easy to use.

Just comment below if you need anything else or have any questions.