Which Taillight Converter for 2001 Chevy Silverado 1500

Question:

i purched a Hopkins 48895 converter wired it up still same then ran a new ground to frame still same problem .what is the right converter kit for this vic.?

asked by: Bruce C

Expert Reply:

This Hopkins Tail Light Converter Kit with 4-Way Flat Connector - LED Compatible, part # HM48895, is intended specifically for vehicles with LED taillights. This unit converts the tow vehicle 3-wire separate tail light system to the trailer 2-wire combined system. Since this unit is intended for use with LEDs, which draw much less power than incandescent type lights, it will not be compatible with vehicles that use incandescent bulbs in the lighting system. A converter module intended for LEDs can be damaged if connected to a system using incandescent bulbs, due to the increased power draw from these bulbs. I believe your stock tail lights are the incandescent type. Unless you have replaced them with aftermarket LED lights this converter cannot be used.

However, it is possible that you do not need a converter for your trailer lights if your Silverado has a towing wire harness. Check under the Silverado where the spare tire mounts and near the inside of the back bumper. There you should find a wire harness with either a round 7-Way connector (that may have a dust cap covering the contacts) or wires without a connector that may be taped together.

If you find a round 7-way connector, and your trailer uses a 4-pole connector, then you can use the Tow Ready Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring Harness for the Chevrolet Silverado, part # 118384. The round plug connects to the 7-way on your vehicle and the other terminates in a flat 4-pole trailer connector. We recommend a mounting bracket be used with this harness, part # 18144.

If you find wires with no connector, then you can use the Hopkins Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring for the 2001 Chevrolet Silverado, part # HM40975-11998. This part includes a wire harness and a dual vehicle connector with both 7-way and 4-way trailer plugs that mounts to your Silverado. The wires on the harness connect to the corresponding wires on your vehicle, and the round connector plugs into the back of the dual vehicle connector bracket. This part offers the convenience and flexibility of having both types of trailer connection available on your tow vehicle.

I have included an article concerning trailer wiring that may be useful to you as it includes photos of the various types of trailer connectors and wiring diagrams.

expert reply by: Adam R