I know this may have come up at some point. But I will be wanting, at some point to add the trailer brake controller to my truck. I was wondering if the factory trailer brake controller, is a plug and play add on. This is one of the options that I would have liked to gotten on the truck, that was not equipped with.

Not a huge rush, I only tow every once in a while, but when I do, its the horse trailer, and trailer brakes are pretty much a necessity. I'd rather do the factory controller, rather than an add on style, just simply for the cleanliness of the look and function.

Anyone have any experience with this?

 

No, you can't add the factory controller. You will have to go aftermarket.

 

Yeah, thanks, I actually stumbled across that realization on another site just a few minutes ago. That actually sucks. I had an aftermarket unit installed in a previous truck and it stuck out like a sore thumb, there was just no good location to hide it at.

But thanks for the info.

 

the "factory" style brake is an lpo deal. dealer installed. so yes, you can, just have to take it to the dealership to do it. then the computer is flashed to recognize it's there.

 

I've got one in my truck if ya wanna check it out, and see what all it would consist of.

EDIT: factory brake controller that is.

 

Do you mind posting up some pics at some point... I may go this route too and hate that stupid box hitting my knee.

 

Unfortunately, it's not that simple

Subject:Adding Integrated Trailer brake Controller RPO JL1 - keywords connector electric hydraulic itbc tow towing wire wiring #PIT4332B - (08/16/2007)



Models:2007-2008 Chevrolet Silverado

2007-2008 GMC Sierra


This PI was superseded to update model years. Please discard PIT4332A.

The following diagnosis might be helpful if the vehicle exhibits the symptom(s) described in this PI.

Condition/Concern:
Some customers may request that dealers install the factory Integrated Trailer Brake Controller on their 2007 or 2008 Full Size pickup when the vehicle was ordered without RPO JL1.

Recommendation/Instructions:
This is to advise you that if the vehicle does not have RPO JL1, it can not be retro-fitted with a factory trailer brake controller.

 

I believe it can still be done with the help of a tech II.

I'm sure the dealer will tell you they can't add power windows/locks to a work truck, but people have! Same thing with the power side mirrors with blinkers. Where there is a will there is a way.

L33Z71- (i need to get your name) If your really wanting to go this route we can line up our trucks and compare to see exactly what is needed and go junk yardin!

 

If you think it can still be done, here are the things that will have to be overcome:
1. The brake master cylinder is different
2. The brake booster is different
3.There is a module mounted back by the frame rail that will have to be purchased, installed, and wired
4. The trucks main wiring harness is different
5. After all of that is taken care of, then you can get to reprogramming the BCM.

Sure, you could change all of that, but it will cost you a fortune. There is a parts guy on another site that listed everything required for the swap...retail prices were 2 grand...no thanks.

 

Sounds super expensive! But if all could be pulled out of a wrecked truck cheaply that would be cool, F spending $2K on it though!