Brake Controller Installation on 1997 Chevy C/K Pickup
Question:
is there a wiring harness for electric brake controlers that just plug into fuse block on a 97 chevy silverado or will I have to hard wire it in? Thanks
asked by: Mark B
Expert Reply:
GM didn't start putting the under-dash tow package connector in their trucks until the 1999 model year, so in order to install a controller on your 1997 C/K pickup, you'll need to hard wire it using our Brake Controller Install Kit, part # ETBC7. If your truck doesn't already have one, a functioning 4-pole trailer connector needs to be installed using part # 118315.
The Tekonsha Primus, part # TK90160 is a good, basic proportional brake controller. A proportional controller will provide safe, effective and predictable braking. Because the controller can tailor the amount of voltage being sent to the trailer brakes, neither the vehicle nor the trailer brakes will be doing all the work, with leads to longer brake life. As long as your trailer has standard electric trailer brakes, the Primus would be an excellent choice.
I'll link you to the instructions for the install kit, plus an install video you might find helpful. In the late 90's GM trucks, it's very difficult to access the brake switch in order to get a brake signal, because of structural members under the dash. However, you should be able to get a brake stop light signal at the fuse block/convenience panel under the dash to the left of the steering column. Look for a terminal labeled 'NAT' (there might be more than one). Use a circuit tester like part # PTW2992 on the terminal, looking for the one that shows voltage only when the brake pedal is pushed. When you locate the correct terminal, you can place a female clip terminal on the end of the red brake controller wire and attach the wire to that terminal.
Products Referenced in This Question
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- No Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 3 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 3 Axles
- LED Display
- Up to 90 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers - GM
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Wiring Adapter
- Plugs into Brake Controller
- Vehicle Specific
- Tekonsha
more information >
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