How to Install a Brake Controller on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

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Question:

I have a 2017 Chevy 1500 LT 4x4 with factory tow package but no break controller. My question is, do you have to do anything else like connect up the break wire or is it plug and play?

asked by: David

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

To install a brake controller on your 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT 4x4, you will just need the vehicle specific plug-in adapter. These adapters are usually brand specific. For example, if you go with the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 brake controller, # 90195, which is one of the top brake controllers on the market, then you will want to use their adapter, # 3016. I've attached an installation video of this setup on a 2017 Silverado for you to check out.

If you are undecided on a brake controller yet, then you can purchase the GM brake controller pigtail, # 3016-S, which comes with the vehicle side connector for your truck and 4 blunt cut wires to splice into any brake controller you choose. Pretty much all brake controller follow an industry standard color code (black, white, blue, red), so you would just splice color to color.

Another brake controller that I highly recommend is the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite, # 331-EBRH-ACCV2. This is a premium brake controller that was brought to the United States from Australia's top brake controller manufacturer Redarc. This brake controller can install directly into your dash using a blank switch panel or anywhere on your dash or consol where you have space. This is much more concealed than traditional box style brake controllers and it provides a more factory look. I attached one of our customer submitted photos on a Silverado for you to see where other customers have installed this controller and how it looks. This brake controller will use the GM pigtail, # 3016-S which will splice in to the brake controller wiring color for color.

expert reply by: John H

1

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Answer 1

Weight distribution hitches are classified by the range of trailer tongue weights their spring bars are rated for. If your current weight distribution hitch like the #RP66022 you'd looked at is rated for up to 12000 lbs, then the bars would be…

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Answer 2

To determine why you do not have any power on the blue brake output wire, I recommend starting at your brake controller. First, make sure the brake controller is on and receiving power. Most brake controllers have 4 wires, blue (brake output to…

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Answer 3

The blue wire on a trailer is typically the output wire to the electric brake assemblies. If this is the case on your trailer then the wire should only have power when you are hooked up to the tow vehicle and are applying the brakes, either by…

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Answer 4

You can absolutely install an aftermarket trailer brake controller to your 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 with the factory tow package, so whoever told you that had some bad info. And since you have the factory tow package you can simply add a plug and…

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Answer 5

The recommended lug nut torque for your 7,000lb axle depends on a few factors like wheel size, stud size etc. Check out the attached photo which shows the torque specs for a variety of applications. I see you were looking at the Dexter Nev-R-Adjust…

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Answer 6

Yes, to control the brakes on your trailer you have to have a brake controller. Without one there's no safe way to activate the trailer brakes. So for your 2017 Chevy Silverado I would recommend the Prodigy P3 Brake Controller part #90195. This…

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Answer 7

My contact at the manufacturer confirmed to me that you can add the Prodigy P2 Brake Controller, #90885, and bypass the OEM Integrated Brake Controller. When installing the P2, use the Plug-In Wiring Adapter #3016. This harness plugs into a port…

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Answer 8

The torque for the Dexter Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly - 6,000-lb and 7,000-lb Axles - 12" - 5 Spoke Utility #8-174-5UC3 is not specified by the manufacturer. For 9/16 inch studs, the typical lug nut torque will be 120-140 ft lbs based on most…

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Answer 9

When you are hardwiring a trailer brake controller like the Prodigy P2 #90885 the red wire connection that provides the triggering signal to the controller should be made to the wire on the COLD SIDE of the brake light switch circuit. This is the…

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Answer 10

For your 2017 Chevy Silverado 1500 the Prodigy P3 part #90195 would be an excellent option for a brake controller that is confirmed as a fit. All you need is the correct install harness, part #3016.

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Answer 11

The factory brake controller port on your 2018 Chevy Silverado 1500 is in your vehicle's junction box underneath the dash, to the left of the steering column, just above the carpeting. If you take a look at the accompanying photo you can see…

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Answer 12

Since your trailer has the bracket #FRCBRKT-BL that would mean your trailer has the Furrion pre-wiring which is very common for newer RVs. The part #FOS43TASF is a fit for this and would be a really easy install. This gives you a monitor with a 4.3…

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How to Install a Brake Controller on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

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