Complete Towing Setup for 2011 Chevy Express Van

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Question:

Hi, I’m buying a 2011 Chevy Express awd van and it does not have a hitch on it. I’m looking to add a 7 way wiring kit as well as a brake controller and 2” receiver, can you tell me which parts I need to order? I’ve read that the express is presided for at least a 4 way flat, can I just add the battery wire and brake controller wire?

asked by: Derek H

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

I can help you find everything you need. Assuming that this is the passenger/cargo version and not the cutaway cab and chassis, for a hitch I recommend going with the Curt Class V Hitch # C15320 . This is a 2" receiver hitch and is the highest rated hitch for your vehicle in terms of towing capacity- which will come in handy if you have the 3500 Express Van. If you've got the 1500 Express or 2500 Express, you'll still be limited to the factory recommended towing capacities for those models since you're always limited to the capacity of your lowest rated components.

For wiring, it appears that the Chevy Express either comes with a quick connect plug to add a 4 way connection (but doesn't actually have the connector), or with the factory towing package that comes with a 7 way connection. Since your vehicle should be equipped with a simple quick connect you can use the Hopkins Plug In Simple # 41155 to give yourself a 4 way connector- I've attached an installation video that shows what the plug is and where to look for it. If it turns out your vehicle doesn't have this connection, you'll need the Tekonsha # 118392 to wire in a 4 way connector. After you've got your 4 way, you will need the # ETBC7 to add a 7 way connector. Either way, if you don't have the factory tow package, you will need to wire in the brake controller wire and battery wires-but these wires and circuits are included with the # ETBC7 kit.

For a brake controller, I recommend using the Hayes Genesis # HA81790 which requires adapter # HA81789-HBC . The Hayes Genesis is a proportional brake controller that allows you to control the brakes on up to 4 axles and automatically levels itself for easy setup.

To complete your setup you'll also need a ball mount. If you're going to be towing under 7500-lbs, part # 989900 provides a complete kit with 2 hitch balls and ball mounts to allow you to pull different trailers with different rises/drops. If you need something more heavy duty you can use # EBMK2216 which has a 16000-lb capacity.

expert reply by: Erik B

1

Answer 1

I would be happy to help! The Hopkins Endurance Multi-Tow Twist-Mount 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector - Vehicle End #HM40920 would only fit your 2010 Chevrolet Express Van 3500 if it has the factory towing package with a factory 7-way…

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Answer 2

If your 2008 Chevy Express Van were already set up for trailer lights and a brake controller, it would have a factory installed 7-Way trailer connector at the rear of the vehicle or a wiring harness located inside the driver side frame rail near the…

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Answer 3

A powered converter is not required for a 2013 Chevy Express Van. Since you are looking to add a 4-Way I recommend going with harness #118392. This harness plugs in line with the vehicle tail lights. I have linked a video showing an example…

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Answer 4

A tow package for a vehicle is usually a frame mounted trailer hitch and trailer wiring on a vehicle like your 2002 Dodge Dakota. If you have those two things you could pretty easily assume you have the tow package. Or, you can take the VIN of your…

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Answer 5

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

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Answer 6

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 7

I agree it is the right time to upgrade to a Lithium charger/converter as not all are Lithium compatible. I recommend using the Progressive Dynamics Mighty Mini AC/DC Panel and Converter/Smart Charger - 60 Amp #PD4060K which is a replacement for your…

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Answer 8

If your old axles have a 5 bolt brake flange the assemblies like Dexter Electric Trailer Brake Assembly - 12" - Left Hand - 6,000 lbs part #23-105 or Dexter Electric Trailer Brake Assembly - 12" - Right Hand - 6,000 lbs part #23-106 will…

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Answer 9

If your current springs have 5 leaves then going to a 7 leaf spring will increase the height of the trailer a little and make the trailer more susceptible to sway. Regarding capacity if you go with springs rated higher than what is required it will…

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Answer 10

I would be happy to help you set up your 2022 Toyota Highlander to haul your new travel trailer. The wiring harness you currently have controls your trailer's lighting functions only. You do not need to rewire your Toyota you just need another…

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Answer 11

The manual lockout on your Atwood 85778 surge brake coupler is there so that you can back up the trailer without the brakes locking up on you. Yes you can safely tow your trailer with the broken manual lockout, you just have to make sure you…

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Answer 12

The correct replacement for a Demco Master Cylinder 05680-C is the Replacement Master Cylinder part #5650. I spoke with Demco to confirm this for you.

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Complete Towing Setup for 2011 Chevy Express Van

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