Last updated on January 12th, 2023 at 09:33 am

Welcome, fellow truck enthusiasts! Are you ready to get your hands dirty and learn how to install a trailer brake controller on your Chevy Silverado? We’ve got you covered with our friendly and funny guide. 

We’ve got everything from Chevy brake controller wiring diagrams to step-by-step instructions for a 2007 Silverado or a Ford F150. Want to upgrade your 1998 Silverado?

We’ve got that too! Even if you drive a Ram 1500, we got you! And for our 2010 Chevy Silverado friends, we’ve got a special treat for you too. 

Even if you’re wondering if you can add a factory trailer brake controller to your Silverado, we’ve got that answer for you, too, in this article, so feel free to use the table of content box to quickly find what you are looking for as this post be quite a details piece covering various area on this subject on how to install trailer brake controller. 

Let’s get right onto it, but before we quite address the elephant in the room, let’s first tackle some of the common queries that might be on your mind. Questions such as: can you install a brake controller yourself, what are a few electric brakes for trailer installation tips for a newbie? How do you hook up an electric trailer brake controller, does U-Haul install brake controllers, where can I get a brake controller installed? And how much does it cost to install a Redarc brake controller? 

Can You Install A Brake Controller Yourself?

It depends on how knowledgeable you are as regards the installation process. So, installing your brake controller can be effortless if you have experience and confidence. Although, you should know that some trailer-mounted and wireless brake controllers are much easier to install. Conversely, if you aren’t familiar with the vehicle’s wiring, don’t fail to get a professional.

Electric Brakes For Trailer Installation Tips

Check out the installation tips for electric brakes below;

• Get the best electric brake that fits your trailer.
• Get professional help if necessary.
• Assemble the required tools before installation.
• Use compression crimp connectors for better operation.
• Loose connections can cause a loss of braking power. So, tighten them!
• Use electric brakes of about 3 amp per magnet for maximum power output or as required by your manufacturer.
• Always have a test run after installation.

Chevy brake controller wiring diagram

If you are ready to tackle your Chevy brake controller wiring like a pro, look at this Chevy brake controller wiring diagram. This will help you navigate the wiring like a boss, and have your brake controller up and running in no time. 

How To Install Trailer Brake Controller

Hauling a trailer could be part of your job or an occasional trip to pick up some materials. Regardless of why you tow, a safe braking system is vital. Most people overlook the brakes because they are concerned about how fast their vehicle can pull the loaded trailer. A trailer brake controller can control your trailer’s brakes if you tow a heavy load. Having this device ready to go is essential in case of an emergency. 

If you want a trailer brake controller, there are 4 practical categories of hydraulic and electric brake controllers:

• traditional brake controllers
• wireless brake controllers
• trailer-mount brake controllers
• dashboard-mounted brake controllers

You need to get the one that fits your trailer and installs it correctly in your vehicle.

Installing a brake controller involves

• disconnecting your vehicle battery,
• mounting the brake controller on the dash, and
• plugging it in with your vehicle’s typical wiring harness.

Steps on How To Install Trailer Brake Controller

To install the trailer brake controller, check out the following steps below;

• Disconnect the negative terminal of your battery as you unbolt it. Disconnecting the battery would help to prevent damage to your car’s electronics.
• Have access to where you would mount the controller. For most large trucks and SUVs, the mount could be below and off to the side of the steering wheel.
• Drill mounting holes using a mounting bracket. Ensure not to damage your vehicle’s electronic behind the dash. 
• Fasten the brake controller into position. However, many brake controllers come with self-tapping screws. So, be careful not to over-tighten the screw or strip out the holes.
• Use your car-specific wiring harness to plug the brake controller into your car. Always refer to your vehicle’s diagram because the factory wiring harness might vary.
• Attach the power wire to the battery to supply power to your brake controller. Use a factory feed to do this power supply.
• Reconnect the negative battery cable of your vehicle.

How Do You Hook Up An Electric Trailer Brake Controller?

To hook up an electric trailer brake controller, you would require the following tools and steps;

Needed Tools

• A No. 2 Philips head driver 
• A marker pen
• Lubricant
• Electric brake controller kit
• An electric drill
• A 2-3 mm drill bit

Steps: 

• Place the device in the desired position, mark it, and make drill holes for your mounting.
• Drill some holes with a 2-3 mm drill bit.
• Mount your device in the marked position with the drill as you use self-tapping screws to hold it.
• Lubricate the screws before tightening them.
• Connect your electric device as you plug the trailer lead into the pre-wired adapter. And also, plug the adapter into the port of the towing vehicle.
• Test run to check if the electric brake controller works as you turn the ignition in the ON position.

Does U Haul Install Brake Controllers?

Of course, yes! U-Haul does install brake controllers. With over 1,500 install locations, you will enjoy their services. In like manner, U- Haul also offers other services, such as; ball mounts, wiring, hitch balls, installation of trailer accessories, and other towing parts to enable you to get on the road safely. 

Read on to learn more!

How Much Does It Cost To Install A Redarc Brake Controller?

The general cost of installing a Radarc brake controller is between $500 to $700. This estimation includes parts and labor costs; your location might also be a factor. Please don’t install the Radarc brake controller yourself; get a professional to install it. Your safety and other drivers’ safety are vital.

How To Install Trailer Brake Controller On Silverado

Since the Silverado has a factory-installed tow package, it becomes a simple plug-in operation.

Here you have the step of installing a trailer brake controller on a Silverado;

• Locate the harness plug using your owner’s manual. Although, under the dash is a panel that covers the ports. Unscrew it to have access to the hex knob.
• Mount the trailer brake controller under the radio in the change pocket. If it is a time-delay unit, you can mount it anywhere, even in an upside-down position.
• Connect the harness to the unit, turn the ignition on and check the system. If necessary, you can adjust the readings by pressing the stop button or the brake pedal.
• Mount the 7-pin trailer plug connector under the truck using a bracket, or cut a hole in the bumper for a more factory-like installation.
• Cut the bumper with a rota-broach of a 1.75-inch hole saw. Be patient; this could take some time.
• Drop the inner plug harness through the bumper.
• Center and square the exterior plug to the vehicle. Drill four mounting holes, and use screws to secure the pin to the vehicle’s bumper. The result takes a factory-like installation.

2022 Silverado Trailer Brake Controller

How your brake controller works depends on the type of brake controller you bought. However, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 models have a connector at the rear side, which enables them to haul. The Silverado also has a 7-pin factory connector. Each of these pins differs in function as your trailer would plug into it. When connected to your vehicle, the brake controller receives a signal indicating that the Silverado is braking and sends it to the 7-pin connector and the electric brakes on the trailer. This signal would activate the electric brake. Notwithstanding, you can install a wired or wireless brake controller on your Silverado if you choose to.

How to install a trailer brake controller on a Chevy Silverado

Gather your tools. You’ll need basic tools like a drill, wire cutter, and wire stripper to get the job done. And don’t forget to bring your trusty sidekick, a friend, to help you.

Read the instructions. Before drilling and cutting wires, ensure you understand how the brake controller works and what the instructions say. It’s always best to be prepared; you want to avoid being stuck halfway through the job, scratching your head.

Locate the brake controller wiring harness. It’s usually under the dashboard, so you may have to get cozy with your Silverado to find it. And don’t be afraid to use some humor and make silly noises.

Install the brake controller. Once you’ve located the wiring harness, use your drill to make a hole for the brake controller and pass the wires through it. Then, connect the brake controller wires to the corresponding wires in the harness. And be sure to double-check everything, no one wants to be the reason for an accident.

Test the brakes. Once everything is connected and wired, test the brakes to ensure they’re working properly. And remember, safety comes first!

Enjoy your Silverado with a new brake controller. Now that you’ve successfully installed your new brake controller, you can enjoy hauling your trailer with more peace of mind and control. And remember to take a moment to pat yourself on the back; You just did something not everyone can do!

Remember to always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions and consult a professional if you have doubts, also, pay attention to all safety precautions when working with the electrical components of your car.

How to install trailer brake controller on ford f150,

Gather your tools; you’ll need a few basic tools like a drill, wire cutter, and wire stripper to get the job done. And don’t forget to bring your trusty sidekick, a friend, to help you.

Read the instructions, before you start drilling and cutting wires, make sure you understand how the brake controller works and what the instructions say. You don’t want to be stuck halfway through the job, scratching your head like a confused chicken.

Locate the brake controller wiring harness underneath your ford dashboard.

Install the brake controller, Once you’ve located the wiring harness, use your drill to make a hole for the brake controller and pass the wires through it. Then, connect the brake controller wires to the corresponding wires in the harness. Double-check everything; you don’t want any unwanted surprises.

Test the brakes, Once everything is connected and wired, test the brakes to ensure they’re working properly. Safety comes first!

Enjoy your Ford F150 with a new brake controller. Now that you’ve successfully installed your new brake controller, you can enjoy hauling your trailer with more peace of mind and control. And don’t forget to take a moment to give yourself a pat on the back, You just did something not everyone can do!”

Where can I get a brake controller installed in US

So here are my top 3 spots where you can get your brake controller installed in the US

• Professional Auto Shops (Midas, Meineke, Jiffy Lube) – These places will have your brake controller installed faster than you can say, and will provide you a warranty for the installation.

• Trailer Supply Stores (U-Haul, Trailer World, Northern Tool + Equipment) – These stores know their way around a brake controller better than a pirate knows the seven seas! They will have your brake controller installed and ready to roll.

• RV or Trailer Dealerships (Lazydays, Camping World) – These dealerships have the best technicians to ensure your brake controller is installed as smoothly as a baby’s bottom. So you can have a safe journey! Remember Safety first and always check the warranty of the installation service.

Can you add a factory trailer brake controller Silverado

If you are wondering whether you can add a factory trailer brake controller to your Silverado? Well, this could be possible, depending on the year and model of your trusty truck. But never fear! You can always check with your local Chevy dealer or an expert auto shop to get the full scoop on what options are available for your specific ride. And if they can’t help, don’t worry, you can find an aftermarket solution that fits the bill. Make sure to consult a professional and double-check compatibility with your ride.

Conclusion 

In my final words, your trailer’s electric brakes will become inactive without a brake controller, and you will breach road regulations. And not tow safely in any case. The good news is that installing brake controllers has become easy for DIYers. Although, you would only spend a few dollars on auto electricians. You can now do it by simply studying the above steps. 

Similarly, you no longer have to cut the dashboard before installing the electric brake controllers—all thanks to the innovative trailer-mounted technology of the Elecbrakes.

Ensure you have a reasonable budget before you embark on Radarc brake controller installation, and always get the best trailer brake controller for effectiveness.  Do well to share this article with others!

Read also: How To Adjust Electric Brakes On A Trailer (Manual vs Self Adjusting Trailer Brakes)

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