Adding a 4 and 7-Way on a 2012 Chevy Express Van to Use Prodigy RF Trailer Brake Controller

Question:

my question pertains to using Prodigy RF on a 2012 chevy express passenger van without factory tow package. If I install a Hopkins part # 31345 flat-4 adapter to the existing van wiring and then install an ETBC7 and connect the two, do you still need a tapped connection from the brake pedal / brake light switch in the front of the vehicle similar to that required when wiring a conventional brake control to the ETBC7 or does the prodigy RF get its brake signal from somewhere else?

asked by: E. H

Expert Reply:

If you installed the Hopkins 4-Way, you would not need the whole ETBC7 kit. You would need # 37185 which is the 7-Way connector part, a 40 amp circuit breaker, # PK54540, and enough 12 gauge wire, # 12-1-1, to reach from the trailer connector to the vehicle battery. The wire is sold in one foot increments.

You would install the 4-Way first. I have included a link to a video showing a typical installation for you. Then you would plug its 4-Way into the back of the 37185. The white ground wire on 37185 will need to be attached to a bare metal surface. Then the only other connection you will need to allow the Prodigy RF to work is the 12 volt circuit.

Attach one end of the 12-1-1 wire to the black wire on 37185. Route it under the vehicle, avoiding areas that can pinch or burn the wire, up into the engine compartment and to the battery. Under the hood attach the circuit breaker to the metal of the engine compartment. The wire you ran will connect to the AUX terminal. Then attach one end of a length of wire to the BAT terminal of the breaker and run the other end other to the positive battery terminal.

The Prodigy RF requires a live 12 volt pin on the 7-Way to function but does not require tapping into the brake switch. And of course you will need the other lighting functions which will be provided from installing the 4-Way and attaching it to the 37185.

expert reply by: Michael H