Slick Trailer Brake Controller Install in Dash Cubby?

igotzzoom · January 19, 2017

Hi All. I have an '04 Avalanche Z71 with a hitch, and the auxiliary harness was included when I bought it this past summer. Here's what I want to do, and I'm wondering if any of you have done it or, or have any tips. I want to install a trailer brake controller, but want as slick and integrated an appearance as possible. I'm eyeing the in-dash cubby to the right of the HVAC and audio controls. Here's one install I found that's along the lines of what I want to do:

intheburbs · January 19, 2017

The brake controller needs some pretty large/thick wires. I think it would be problematic and possibly dangerous running wires with that much amperage through the dashboard. There's not a lot of room/clearance behind the radio and climate controls. Just my $.02. I've installed brake controllers in three trucks, and I've tried to keep them as simple as possible.

muddkatt · January 19, 2017

Just mount it below the steering wheel at the bottom of the knee bolster. Easy to install, controls knobs are accessible, and you have to pay attention and look to even notice it.

Nanotech Environmental · January 19, 2017

I installed mine just below the little cubby that's below the HVAC controls. (same dash setup as pictured) There happens to be a dash screw under there which can be used to hold the brake controller. In this spot, there's no risk of banging it with your knees, etc. and the factory harness easily reaches over from the wiring port on the left side. Zip tie the harness cleanly under the dash and you're all set.

sefiroxx · January 19, 2017

If the wire sizes are a problem, you can install relay(s) in a hidden area, run control wires from the dash to them and the larger wires from the relays to the rear. Std solution used by the car mfgs - as the cars got smaller and the electronics requirements went up, not enough room for large wire harnesses, so the relays were employed and moved to the engine bay.

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intheburbs · January 21, 2017

No offense, but a relay is a terrible idea. It will delay the application of the trailer brakes, and if it fails due to corrosion/etc, now you're in a bad way. Nothing better than a half-second delay on brake application when you have to make a panic stop and your GCWR is 16,000 lbs.

I like clean installations, too. I don't like the look of bolted on/added on crap. But with such an important safety device as a trailer brake controller, function overrides form. Every time.