Can a Hopkins Brake Controller be Installed on a Motor Home Built on a Workhorse Chassis  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Brake controllers are not vehicle specific so you can install one on your motor home on the Workhorse chassis.

Brake controller manufacturers do not offer fit information for motor homes (since there are so many makes and models). If your RV has a 7-Way trailer connector then all you will need is the brake controller of your choice, enough wire # 10-1-1, to reach from in the cab to the trailer connector and from the cab to vehicle battery, and a 30-amp circuit breaker # PK54530.

The # 10-1-1 wire is sold in increments of 1 foot. When ordering wire be sure to account for weaving in an out of other components on the RV which could increase the amount needed.

What you will do is mount the controller according to its instructions. Then, on the back of the 7-Way trailer connector you will locate the wire attached in the 7 oclock position. Trace this as far forward as you can. Then sever the wire and attach one end of the # 10-1-1 wire to the end that goes to the 7-Way.

Route the wire under the vehicle, avoiding areas that can pinch or burn the wire, and up into the cab. Attach it to the brake controller blue wire.

The brake controller white wire will need to connect to the negative battery cable. The black wire will need to attach to the positive battery terminal via the 30-amp circuit breaker.

The red wire is the last connection. You will need to use a circuit tester such as # PTW2993 to probe the brake switch wires located above the brake pedal. You need the wire that only shows power when the brake pedal is pressed and not one that shows power with the head lights or turn signals on.

I have included some links that should help. You will just need to follow the relevant parts since it is not a complete hardwire installation.

expert reply by: Michael H

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