Adapting An Aftermarket Trailer Brake

rallysport096 · January 7, 2019

So I tried searching in the forum and I'm not sure if it's working right, but I only found one post that addressed this, but the OP I guess gave up on it. I apologize if this post is a repeat.

I have a 2015 Sierra 1500 AT and I love everything about it.... except a couple of things I'm working on adding (leveling kit (done), larger tires (done), trailer brake, wireless charger, any mods I can do to the touch screen, etc.). One of those would be a trailer brake control. I would really like to avoid having to use an aftermarket switch, but in doing the research, the wiring harness in the truck won't allow for the addition of the factory module and I don't want to have to try to figure out how to reprogram the ECU to show up on the dash. So, I have to go aftermarket. I purchased the Hopkins Insight controller to try to avoid having the bulky box near my legs but got to thinking how I can adapt the factory switch (which I ordered) to work with the Hopkins controller.

First issue, there's a third button for the Hopkins that the OEM module doesn't have, which isn't a big deal, I can figure that one out.

Second, and main issue, is the rheostat or slider switch. I will end up doing some testing on it but I wanted to see if anyone has had any experience with this or might know where I can find the specifications or diagrams for both the OEM switch and the Hopkins. My goal is to hide as much of this aftermarket install as I can, minus the display and third button.

@pgamboa I thankfully stumbled upon your videos awhile back and was wondering where you obtained your electrical connectors? I want to be able to attach the factory switch as clean as possible and wanted to try to find the right connectors.

Thank you!

RACERX7775 · January 8, 2019

Hmm. Never thought about trying to use the factory switch with an aftermarket controller. Have you thought about putting the controller in the little cubby where the factory switch goes? I cut mine out a bit and put my P3 in there. It sticks way out because of the slider is on the bottom or else it would be almost flush with the dash.

Other than that, I would think its nearly impossible to ADD the factory controller. Might cost you like $2k or more.