Installing a Brake Controller on a 1988 GMC K 1500 Pickup Truck

Question:

is there a trailer brake controller adapter wiring to plug controller in without having to hard wire one for a 1988 gmc k 1500 pickup,

asked by: Jim

Expert Reply:

GM did not install a brake controller adapter port in the C/K series pick up trucks, so there are no plug-in adapters that will allow you to install a brake controller without having to run wires.

If you already have 7-way connector at the rear of your truck, then you could use wiring kit # 5506. This kit includes a duplex wire to run a brake output circuit from the brake controller to your 7-way and to run a wire from the brake controller to the battery (via the circuit breaker) and then to the 7-way.

If you do not have a 7-way trailer connector on your truck, then you will want the Electric Trailer Brake Controller Installation Kit, # ETBC7. This includes a 7-way connector and all hardware needed to install a brake controller on your truck. I have attached a link to the installation instructions for this kit as well as an installation video for you to check out. The vehicle in the video is different from your truck, but the installation is not vehicle specific and should give you a good idea on what is involved to install a brake controller.

I have also attached a few FAQ articles on brake controller installation for you to check out.

expert reply by: John H