GMC (and Chevy) trailer brake controler

[berudd]

I'm looking at a 2015 GMC Sierra with the integrated trailer brake controller. My current trailer doesn't have brakes but my next one will. So, I don't know anything about trailer brakes, specifically those that come with Triton boats. Do I need to have any concerns with the GMC controller being compatible with the brakes on boat trailers? I assume the are electrically actuated but we know what assuming gets you.

So, any input from guys with Sierra or Silverado with the integrated brake controller?

[macdavid]

Actually, that has gotten pretty consistent in the industry. Should not be a factor or deal breaker in a new vehicle purchase.

[1BADAIR]

most boat trailers wont use the trailer brake controller. Its for electric brakes and actually works very well.

[tdt91]

Bass boat trailer don't use electric brakes they use surge brakes. Surge brakes have nothing to do with the controller in your truck.

[berudd]

Bass boat trailer don't use electric brakes they use surge brakes. Surge brakes have nothing to do with the controller in your truck.

That is what I suspected but didn't know for sure. I guess they'd be used with a travel trailer then which might be in my future as well. What about the brakes on larger boats like 21' - 23' offshore center consoles. I'm considering one for retirement. I may not have this truck then but whatever I have then will be another GM truck.

[tdt91]

They don't use electric brakes (as far as I know) on boat trailers for obvious reasons. When you get your new boat it will probably have a 5 way flat connector. Connect that to the 7 round adapter and plug it in to your truck. Done. I think new boats come with the adapter already but not sure.

[Ohio Archer]

I had electric brakes installed on my boat trailer and haven't had any issues. I do disconnect them before backing into the water, been doing that for years due to the poor tail lights trailers usually have on them. Blown too many tail light bulbs in the past.

The new integrated brake controllers on GM vehicles work very well, using brake line pressure to mimic surge brakes.

[pops slowdog]

A 2015 GM with the built in brake controller has both the 7 pin round and the 5 pin flat connectors built in to the rear bumper.They work well with electric brake trailers. No adapters needed unless you have a diff type connector such as a 6-pin round.