Parts Needed to Install Brake Controller in 2018 Chevy Express Van 3500

Question:

We want to add brake controls for trailers. What do we need? Thanks

asked by: Stewart M

Expert Reply:

For your 2018 Chevy Express 3500 van that does not have factory trailer wiring currently you will need to first start with a 4-way connector if not present already. For that you'd want the part # 118392 which is a confirmed fit for your van.

So the easiest to install brake controller that also works really well is the Curt Echo Mobile part # C51180. Basically this just plugs into an active 7-way and once you sync it to your phone it's ready to go. This brake controller is proportional which means it senses the amount of deceleration your tow vehicle is applying and applies the trailer brakes in a relative way. If your Express already had a 7-way installed this would have been all that you'd need.

To convert the 4-way to a 7-way so that you can install the brake controller only requires the 7-way adapter kit part # ETBC7L. The 4-way of this plugs into the 4-way of your vehicle and once you run the included wiring and breaker up to the vehicle's positive battery post it's active enough to allow the Echo to function. This saves you from having to hardwire in a brake controller which requires tapping into the brake signal of your vehicle and running a few other wires too.

expert reply by: Jameson C