Trailer Wiring for a 7-Blade Camper Plug on 2000 Chevy Express Van with a 4-Wire Flat  

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Expert Reply:

It sounds like the 7-way connector might be wired incorrectly into the vehicle wiring. Could you give me some more specifics on how you made that connection? Did you cut the plug off, and hardwire it directly into the 7-way? If this is how it was done, you will want to use a circuit tester, such as part # PTW2993 and test each wire on that vehicle harness to verify its function. Turn on the left turn signal, probe each wire until you find the one that blinks. Connect that wire to post number 5 or the yellow wire on the 7-way. Then turn on the right turn signal, and probe until you find the wire with the signal, connect it to post number 6 or the green wire on the connector. Turn on the headlights, probe for signal, attach to post number 3 or the green wire. The ground wire would remain and would attach to post number 1 or the white wire on the connector.

To actuate the brakes, you will need a brake controller. I would recommend a proportional unit such as the Tekonsha Prodigy P2, part # 90885.

The remaining 3 wires on the 7-way would connect as follows. The blue wire carries the brake output, and would run up to the passenger compartment and connect to the blue wire on the brake controller, once it is installed. The black wire would provide 12 volt accessory power to the trailer if needed. It connects to the positive battery terminal via a 40 amp circuit breaker, part # 9510. The purple wire would tap into the reverse light circuit, if necessary.

The brake controller would mount under the dash, in a spot that is within reach of the driver. The that has been run from the rear trailer connector would attach to the blue brake output wire on the brake controller. The black controller wire would run to the positive battery terminal, via a 30 (part # 9506P) or 30 amp (part # 38630) circuit breaker. The instructions included with the brake controller should tell you which circuit breaker to use. The white wire on the controller attaches to the negative battery terminal, and the red wire taps into the cold wire coming off of the brake stoplight switch located at the top of the brake pedal. To locate the correct wire, use a circuit tester and probe the wires exiting the switch until you locate the wire that only shows current when the brake pedal is pressed.

I've linked you to an install article to assist in your installation. I've also linked to an install video showing a different controller being installed on a 2001 Express. Your install procedure would be identical.

expert reply by: Mike L

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