I've got a 2005 QS, Crew Cab with the trailering package. I know I've got the wiring harness. I'm going to rent a 25' trailer for a week in July and have been told I need a trailer brake installed.

Does anyone know what I should be looking for?

Welcome to the "new" forum. Since you already have the plug-in wiring harness (included with the tow package) you can use most any brand of self-contained trailer brake contoller such as Tekonsha or Valley that does not tap into the hydraulic brake lines.

These are in the $75 to $125 range and all you need to do is splice the wires from the wire harness to the leads from the brake controller and plug it in. The owners manual has the pin-outs. You also have to attach the controller to the dash, it can not just flop around, but strong double-sided foam tape may work if you do not want to make a permenant installation.

There is also a big 40 amp fuse that plugs in to the underhood fuse block to charge the trailer battery while you are driving. It has nothing to do with the brakes though.

Most of these brake controlers take a bit of adjusting to get them to work right with a particular trailer. So if you have the controler installed before you pick up the trailer, they should be able to help you do this.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Rip,

Thanks for the quality review, Rip.

MrTruck has a nice brake controller on his home page.

I tried to grab the link for ya, but it won't work that way ?? It's an htm inside the existing page or something ??

Beats me- I'm lucky to keep this place running !!!!

You will need a brake controller installed. It will activate/control the brakes on the trailer. If you don't plan on towing a lot you might try one of the mid-priced inertia-type controllers, such as the Tekonsha Voyager. I've used that one before and it worked fine. If you plan on towing more, I keep seeing the following three brands/models praised: BrakeSmart, Jordan, Tekonsha Prodigy. I'm looking to get the Prodigy once my truck is delivered.

DaMan, For your intended temporary installation for a rental trailer, one of the proportional inertia types would probably be the most practical.

While the BrakeSmart (the one MRQuadrasteer and Coach were refering to) is a highly rated unit, it taps into the hydraulic brake circuit and would be hard to justify for a one-time application.

The Jordan responds to brake pedal travel via a cable and likewise would probably be more of an instalation issue for your use.

If you see yourself renting more often or even buying your own trailer, then one of these may well be the best choice.

The two Tekonsha models Coach mentioned are widely available and are simple DIY installations. The Prodigy is the better one, but will be around $125 or so.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Rip,

Trailer brake was installed on Monday. Took the RV dealer about 25 minutes. Pretty simple. Thanks for all the suggestions and pointers.

Hello Everyone!

I have a need to tow a large trailer with two axles and electrically activated brakes. I've seen the time delayed and the progressive (inertia activated) brake control units. It appears the "progressives" get the nod. I need something. Any advice out there?

Thanks in advance,

The Dog...

Never used one but heard good things on Prodigy controllers. Here is a link for installation that would help you.

http://www.pirate4x4.com/tech/billavista/Chevy/tech/Prodigy/index.html

Awesome Ken!

Thanks for that! I purchased a Prodigy today and a GM-specific connector. The link you sent me is excellent because, as we all know, manufacturer's instructions may be good, but they often don't compare to a real person's actual experience.

Cheers!