Install OEM trailer break on 2013 Avalanche

[Madhattan]

I have a 2013 Avalanche black diamond edition. I just got into a camper and the dealer there wants to install some universal trailer brake kit. I don't want them to drill any holes on my knee bolster, so I was looking around and noticed that some of the Avalanche LTZ models come with trailer brakes from factory. I'm trying to find all the parts to convert my truck into having OEM trailer brake but everywhere I call they ask me for part numbers and with out that they wont be able to help me. I guess what I am looking for is anyone that has a 2013 Avalanche LTZ with the Trailer Brake accessory built in it already. I would either need the last 8 of there vin number or the part number found behind the Knee Bolster. I know that there is more parts involved with making this work but I feel this can help me with a staring point.

 

[ca2kjet]

Getting the knee bolster with the integrated controller is fairly easy. Part numbers are 22773443 (ebony) or 22773444 (light cashmere). However, you're not going to like hearing this but converting over to the factory integrated controller is darn near impossible. It requires changing wiring, sensors, modules and do a bunch of reprogramming. I think there's even a sensor in the master cylinder. It's integrated into the truck in the most literal sense. So much so that GM put out a TSB that tells dealerships it can't be done.

 

[Madhattan]

Your right, I am not liking what I'm hearing, but thank you for the fast response and the part numbers for the the knee bolster. But being that I have you online I was wondering if I order the knee bolster with the trailer brake switch, can that be used to tap into the universal trailer brake switch they want to install, instead of drilling some control on my dash?

 

[ca2kjet]

Probably not, the back of the integrated control switch has a proprietary socket to accept GM's wire harness that goes to who knows what after that. Would you consider putting your own controller in? It's fairly easy to do if you want to do it yourself. I once had a Prodigy brake controller in my truck. If you look at the bottom of the knee bolster there's a small tap screw on the left and right that helps hold it in place. I was able to mount the Prodigy hanger bracket using the right side screw and only needed to drill a tiny screw hole a few inches to the left. If I recall that wasn't in the knee bolster but I think the metal bracket or whatever is down there. So cosmetically I didn't damage anything important and the other hole is no more than 1/8". I've attached the instructions on the install process.

Here's what the bracket looks like;

 

[Madhattan]

Thank you and I appreciate you for sending the installation guide for the brake controller. I ordered it and it should be on its way. Will keep you posted on my install.