Recommended Trailer Brake Controller For a 2011 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 With Factory 7-Way

Question:

Ill be purchasing a travel trailer in Nov., and just making sure I have all my ducks in a row before I pick it up. I spoke with the RV rep and she recommended this is the email she sent me: You will want a brake controller installed in the truck. Make sure they give you a charge line as well, to charge the batteries while going down the road. The brakes on the trailer are self adjusting electric drum brakes. Does this model brake controller have the charge line? Or is that something separate? Thank you for your help in this matter, I do appreciate it very much.

asked by: Jeffrey B

Expert Reply:

I recommend installing the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller # RED52VR on your 2011 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. This controller is proportional and takes up much less room than the Dexter Predator DX2 Trailer Brake Controller # 58-8 you found. This will make is easier to reach and give you a much cleaner look with the brake controller.

I have linked an installation video below for the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller # 90195 that will accurately walk you through all the steps necessary to install a brake controller as well as the connections needed under the hood. You may need the M6 Nut # 185916 and M8 Nut # 185917 it the wires have never been connected to the battery source. One of the wires sends power to the brake controller and the other is for the charge line on your factory 7-way. Be sure to check that you have the correct working fuses for these circuits as well or you can find them at your local auto supply store.

Be sure to find a good weight distribution hitch like the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System # EQ37100ET. This will make your drive safer by reducing the amount the trailer sways from wind gusts and keeps your truck level with the extra weight so you are not white knuckle driving. If you can tell me the exact camper you are looking at I can recommend the correct system to match your weight ratings.