How to Use Trailer Brakes with a 2011 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with a 4-Way Trailer Connector
Question:
Hello, I was hoping to get a control box or a type of hook-up that would apply the brakes to the trailer, when i stepped on the brake pedal or hit the switch. I would like a kit that has the least amount of wire splicing to my trucks electrical system. My current system is a 4 prong boat trailer that is connected into my wire harness on the PUs rear end. I dont plan on using the trailer much maybe once a month so a system that lights the trailer and makes the brakes work together, if possible would be best. Are the lighting and brakes on the trailer going to be 2 different systems or do you sell one system that combines them? Thank You
asked by: Seth
Expert Reply:
Your 2011 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 will have a factory connector under the rear bumper that the Curt Wiring Harness # C55774 will connect with. This harness will provide you with the 7-way and still keep a 4-way on your truck as well.
Once you have the 7-way you'll also need an electric brake controller. A brake controller installs in your truck's cab and connects to the stop light switch coming from your brake pedal and then back to the 7-way at the rear of the truck. I've linked an article on general information on brake controllers for you.
I suggest a proportional brake controller that uses the inertia of your Chevy to determine the force at which the trailer's brakes are applied. This way whether you're slamming on the brakes in an emergency situation or you're just slowing down at a stop sign the trailer's brakes will react in the same fashion as the truck. The other option, a time delayed controller, reacts the same way each time based upon a preset setting that you make. A proportional controller will put less stress on your truck's and trailer's brakes over time.
The specific controller I recommend is the Prodigy P3 # 90195. It's one of the highest regarded controllers on the market for its reliability. It also has an easy to use LCD which sets it apart from others. To install it in your Chevy's cab you'll need to locate the wires under the dash. Then you'll hardwire the controller into the truck. I've linked a video that shows the install step by step for you.
Products Referenced in This Question
Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 4 Axles
- LCD Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness for Factory Tow Package - 7-Way and 4-Pole Flat Connectors
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- No Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- 7 Round - Blade
- CURT
more information >
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