Brake Controller Installation on 1997 Chevy C/K Pickup

Published 10/08/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers - GM

(1194)

$19.55

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(135)

$26.43

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

(3397)

$121.19

LCD Digital Circuit Tester

(26)

$26.67

Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller - Up to 3 Axles - Proportional

(2158)

$90.04

Question:

is there a wiring harness for electric brake controlers that just plug into fuse block on a 97 chevy silverado or will I have to hard wire it in? Thanks

asked by: Mark B

Expert Reply:

GM didn't start putting the under-dash tow package connector in their trucks until the 1999 model year, so in order to install a controller on your 1997 C/K pickup, you'll need to hard wire it using our Brake Controller Install Kit, part # ETBC7. If your truck doesn't already have one, a functioning 4-pole trailer connector needs to be installed using part # 118315.

The Tekonsha Primus, part # TK90160 is a good, basic proportional brake controller. A proportional controller will provide safe, effective and predictable braking. Because the controller can tailor the amount of voltage being sent to the trailer brakes, neither the vehicle nor the trailer brakes will be doing all the work, with leads to longer brake life. As long as your trailer has standard electric trailer brakes, the Primus would be an excellent choice.

I'll link you to the instructions for the install kit, plus an install video you might find helpful. In the late 90's GM trucks, it's very difficult to access the brake switch in order to get a brake signal, because of structural members under the dash. However, you should be able to get a brake stop light signal at the fuse block/convenience panel under the dash to the left of the steering column. Look for a terminal labeled 'NAT' (there might be more than one). Use a circuit tester like part # PTW2992 on the terminal, looking for the one that shows voltage only when the brake pedal is pushed. When you locate the correct terminal, you can place a female clip terminal on the end of the red brake controller wire and attach the wire to that terminal.

expert reply by: Mike L