Installing a Brake Controller from Scratch on a 2005 Chevy Uplander  

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To install a brake controller on your 2005 Chevy Uplander, you will need three things. First, a brake controller. I recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P2, # 90885. It is one of the more popular brake controllers because it is easy to use and install. I have included a link to the installation details below.

Next, you will need to install a 4-Way trailer wiring harness. You will need Tow Ready Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring, # 118396. This is a T-One style harness that plugs in line with your vehicles taillights. I have included a link to the installation details and a video installation on a similar vehicle below.

With a 4-Way installed you can then install the 4 and 7-Way Installation Kit, # ETBC7. Plug the 4-Way you previously installed into the back of the ETBC7. There will be 4 wires left to connect: blue, black, white, and purple (sometimes yellow). First, attach the white wire to the vehicle frame. Using a circuit tester like # PTW2993 find the wire for the Uplander reverse lights and attach this wire to the purple (or yellow) wire. Using the included duplex cable, attach the black wire in the cable to the black wire on the ETBC7 and attach the white wire in the cable to the blue wire on the ETBC7. Next, route the duplex cable under the Uplander, up through the engine compartment, and over near the battery. Be sure to avoid areas that might pinch or burn the wires.

Under the hood, mount a 40 amp breaker. Attach the black wire to the silver post on the breaker. Next, run a length of wire from the other post to the positive battery terminal. Route the white wire from the duplex cable through the firewall and over to where you plan to mount the brake controller. This wire attaches to the brake controller blue wire. Inside the cab, mount the brake controller according to the instructions.

Attach a length of wire to the black wire on the brake controller and another length of wire to the white wire on the brake controller (you will have left over wire from the duplex cable). First route the wire connected to the brake controller black wire. Attach it to a 20 or 30 amp breaker (see brake controller instructions for which size to use), and then to the positive battery terminal. Next, route the brake controller white wire through the firewall and attach it to the negative battery terminal.

Back in the cab, there is one remaining connection. Using the circuit tester, find the wire on the brake switch above the brake pedal that carriers a signal ONLY when the brake pedal is pressed. If you find a wire that carries a signal at any other time (like with the blinkers or headlights on) it is not the correct wire. The switch should not have constant power running THROUGH it at all times. There is power running to it, though (the hot side). The cold side will only have power when the brake pedal is pressed. Once the connections are made tie up and conceal any loose wires and installation is complete.

I have included a link to an FAQ article on installing a brake controller from scratch and a video showing installation of an ETBC7 kit that should help with the installation.

expert reply by: Michael H

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