Is Converter Needed for Installing Trailer Wiring Connector on 2003 Chevy Venture

Question:

I have a 2003 chevy venture. I ordered a curt c55355. When I went to install There were no plug adapters to just click it into place... I am wiring this into a 7 way adapter to haul my camper. So I did not end up using the c55355 I identified which wires did what and tapped my 7 way into the appropriate wires. I now have tail lights and turn signals but no brake lights. I did find a white wire on the van which gets power when the brake is applied but if I tap that wire to the wire which goes to the 7 way turn signal/brake light it turns the turn signal off when brake is applied. I also noticed that the electric brakes on the camper engage when I do this...

asked by: John F

Expert Reply:

It looks like your 2003 Chevy Venture has a separate wiring system, which means the brake and turn signals are sent along separate wires. With this type of system, a converter is required and simply hardwiring the vehicle wires to a 7-Way adapter without one will not allow the trailer light functions to work properly.

The Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness # C55355 referenced in your question does include the necessary converter. The plug-in locations should be behind the driver side trim panel on your Venture. I have attached an installation video on your Venture that you can use a reference. If you cannot locate these, then it's possible that for some reason Chevy did not add these at the factory for your particular model.

If this is the case, we do also have universal wiring harnesses that include the needed converter like the Heavy Duty ModuLite Circuit Protected Vehicle Wiring Harness # C59496. This is a hardwire kit that you will connect directly to the wires on your vehicle to provide a 4-Way connector. I have included the installation details for you to check out.

expert reply by: Chris R