Cup holder basket trailer brake installation

tdunc · Aug 8, 2013

*Work in Progress*
Tekonsha P3 Trailer Brake Controller Removable Bracket

After looking at several other member's trailer brake installations, I decided to come up with a different design that suits my needs a little better. I don't need to tow very often, but I want to have easy access to my controller when needed and in use. I chose the cup holder basket (for those with auto trans only, sorry standards) as my location. I figured in case I messed anything up, this part is easily replaceable, unlike other parts of the console. I'll let the pictures below do most of the talking. However, if there are any questions, please ask! I can also try to get any additional pictures if requested. Also, I'd appreciate any feedback/suggestions since this installation is not complete. I still need to finish wiring, clean up the bracket (paint, etc), and decide how to easily make this removable/connectable...

(1) Remove cup holder basket, drilled three holes. The two smaller holes are for the bracket, and larger hole is for the wiring harness. The holes were marked using the bracket in steps 4 & 5. Lots of marking, and measuring... drilled once!

(2) Run two #8 3/8" screws through smaller holes and harness wires through 1/2" hole. I'm still debating the best way to secure the screws so I don't have to take out the basket each time the controller is needed. I'm think my best option is to JB weld the screws in the back so they're permanently there. note-the nuts on the screws will be removed once JB welding is done.

(3) Confirm driver side cup holder will still fit over screws & wire harness. This was part of my main goal, not losing functionality of my beloved 13 cup holders!

(4) Using the Tekonsha bracket, and a 3" corner brace, I have a mounting bracket shown below. The brace is very sturdy and will hold the controller without bouncing around.

(5) Mount the bracket to the cup holder basket. This required some fitting, marking up a few times to make sure I had enough clearance to remove the controller, and make sure the final installation didn't interfere with wiring (goes along with step 1).

(6) Connect the harness and seat controller into the mount confirming fitment.

(7) Replace basket in truck. The wiring and screws can get in the way of placing the basket back in, so minor modification to the console (part that's covered anyway) might be required. I also put the screw heads toward the back for this reason.

(8) Truck in Drive, easy access to manual brake and all controls. Final touches still need to happen, but this is where I stand today. And I still have use of the passenger cup holder with the controller installed.