How to Activate the 12 Volt Power Circuit of a 2008 Chevy Silverado 7-Way

Question:

Do I need to connect the two wires brake controller in order to have the 12 Volts to charge my RV battery, even if I have a GM dealer fitted brake ajustment to the dash.

asked by: Jack

Expert Reply:

What you will need to do to determine if you need to make any additional underhood connections on your 2008 Chevy Silverado to complete the 12 volt power circuit is use a circuit tester like # PTW2993 to test the 12 volt pin of the 7-way on your truck. This will be the 1:00 pin of the trailer connector. Since you have a factory brake controller I would be surprised if this circuit wasn't active already.

If the circuit shows no voltage you will need to check out the FAQ I attached to the right to see the connections that will need to be made. Since you have a factory brake controller you won't need to make all of the connections. The ring terminal for the 12-volt power lead for the 7-way trailer connector is located to the left of the power distribution box. It is taped to a wire harness under the power brake booster. Cut the tape to release it from the harness. Then run the wire to the front of the power distribution box and hook the ring on the right post. You will then need to insert a 40 amp fuse in the appropriate fuse holder.

Most vehicles have the fuse installed already.

expert reply by: Jameson C