Installing Hopkins Agility Brake Controller on 1998 Chevy C/K 2500  

Question:

Expert Reply:

GM did not install the connector under the dash to install a brake controller until the 1999 Silverado/Sierra.

You can still install a brake controller, but you'll need to hardwire it using a brake controller install kit, part # ETBC7. The ETBC7 includes everything you'll need to install a brake controller. You would not need the adapter. You can cut off the end of the connector and hardwire it in place using butt connectors like # 05732-2.

Mount the 7-way included with the kit at the rear bumper. If you have an existing 4-pole, you can simply plug it it to the 7-way. If not, you can quickly and easily install one using part # 118315. Or, you can cut off the 4-pole and wire it directly into the wiring harness above the spare tire. The green wire of the adapter would connect to the green truck wire, yellow wire on the adapter to the yellow truck wire, brown wire to brown. The white wire would ground to the truck frame.

You can see the complete installation procedure by clicking the links provided. I have also linked an install video showing the ETBC7 used on a 1993 Suburban. The procedure for your truck would be identical.

When you get inside the vehicle to install the controller under the dash, you'll have difficulty accessing the stoplight switch wiring to connect the red brake controller wire. Bracing under the dash makes it almost impossible to access the wiring. If you look in the fuse/junction panel under the dash above where the drivers left knee would be, you should find one the the terminals labeled 'NAT'. Use a circuit tester like part # PTW2993 and test that terminal while you press the brake controller. If the terminal only goes hot with the brake pedal, you can use a spade connector to make the connection there.

expert reply by: Mike L

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