Brake Box

[84chevk10]

I would think this is electrical, got a question on a trailer brake box. First off, I haven't installed one in years that you didn't just plug in, all the newer models are plug and play. I'm going to install one in my 84 K10, wouldn't it be better to run a relay some way than just running a large wire all the way to the back like everybody used too? Could you do that and go with a 12 or 14 gauge wire to the rear? Anyone done this or have a diagram of the wiring?

 

[Craig 85]

Are you are referring to the blue wire to activate the brakes? I believe it is a 12 gauge as it feeds all the power to the electric brakes. I'm sure if you are feeding a trailer that has 4 brakes, it draws a fair amount of power.

Here's a wiring diagram from e-trailer.com

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[84chevk10]

Yes, brakes on both axles and I'm referring to the blue wire. Just wondering if there is a better way than just running a 14 ft piece of wire back to the trailer plug. With a large load and dual axle brakes, I'm concerned about heat .

 

[Craig 85]

I used this set up on my 2001 2500HD. Several times I towed my 30' travel trailer (8500 LBS) in the mountains on a curvey road with no heat issues.

 

[jetman]

Yes, brakes on both axles and I'm referring to the blue wire. Just wondering if there is a better way than just running a 14 ft piece of wire back to the trailer plug. With a large load and dual axle brakes, I'm concerned about heat .

Craig85 schematic is a good one. Twelve gauge is adequate for your truck's wiring in the trailer brake power circuit. If you do the math, voltage drops and power losses are minimal for an expected total e-load of ~15 amps (dual axle trailer w/ big brakes on each axle).
A electrical relay will not do anything for you in regard to e-brakes, just get a good controller, wire it up as shown and you will be fine. Also, do not forget to inspect the brake trailer wiring, lots of manufacturers go cheap with small gauge wire on that end.

 

[1987 GMC Jimmy]

The Tekonsha brake controller still looks like a good part. My dad's truck had that one for a long time a long time ago.

 

[smoothandlow84]

Fwiw...Prodigy makes a fantastic electronic brake controller as well. They self adjust for each trailer rather than having to manually setup braking for each trailer.