How to Install the Hopkins Impulse Brake Controller on a 2009 Chevrolet Silverado  

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From 2007 to 2013, GM trucks did not use plug-in style brake controller wiring. Instead, they had 4 (sometimes 5) blunt cut wires bundled up under the drivers side dash. The bundle should have a white tag that lists the functions of each wire. I have attached a help article that explains how to install a brake controller on your truck. I have also attached an installation video on a 2009 Chevrolet Silverado for you to check out. The brake controller in the video is different from your Impulse, but the installation process will be the same.

Because your truck did not come with a port for a plug-in style brake controller harness, the brake controller will have to be hardwired to the wires under the dash. Most brake controllers come with a universal wiring harness with 4 wires. If you no longer have the universal wiring harness that came with the Impulse, then you will want to get a Hopkins branded custom harness, like part # HM47795, and cut off the vehicle side connector. Hopkins does not offer replacement universal harnesses and it is important that you choose a Hopkins brand harness so it is compatible with the Impulse brake controller.

Once you have the harness prepared, you will want to connect the wires from the harness to the wires from the truck by function. I have listed the functions of each wire on the truck and brake controller below.

Truck Side
Red - 12 volt power
Dark Blue - Brake Power Output
Light Blue - Stop Light Switch
White - Ground

Brake Controller Side
Black - 12 volt power
Blue - Brake Power Output
Red - Stop Light Switch
White - Ground

If you have the fifth orange wire, it will not be used. You can simply tie it up and out of the way.

expert reply by: John H

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