Reese 58318 Bracket Relocation Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2007 ’20 Review

The Reese 58318 Bracket Relocation Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2007 ’20 and What It Taught Me

For anyone who relies on their truck for more than just commuting, especially when towing, the intricacies of trailer brake controllers and their associated wiring can become a significant factor in everyday usability. My introduction to the Reese 58318 Bracket Relocation Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2007 ’20 came about during a project involving the installation of a gooseneck hitch on my 2015 Chevrolet Silverado. The new hitch setup, while immensely practical for hauling, completely obscured the factory-mounted brake control box, rendering it inaccessible and effectively useless. This presented an immediate problem: how to regain full functionality of my trailer brakes without undertaking a massive rewiring job or compromising the aesthetics and safety of the truck bed.

This kit, a seemingly simple piece of hardware from Reese, promised to solve this exact dilemma. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of practical utility; it’s a straightforward, no-frills bracket designed for a specific purpose. The metal felt solid, with a robust powder coating that suggested it could withstand the harsh conditions typically found under a truck frame. It’s not the kind of product that aims to win design awards, but rather to serve a functional need reliably. I briefly considered trying to fabricate a custom mount myself, but the time investment and the uncertainty of getting the angles and strength just right quickly made the Reese offering the more sensible choice. The immediate sense was one of problem solved, or at least, a clear path to solving it.

Real-World Testing: Putting Reese 58318 Bracket Relocation Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2007 ’20 to the Test

First Use Experience

The testing ground for this relocation kit was, naturally, my garage and the immediate vicinity of my workshop. The primary scenario was the installation itself, a process that immediately highlighted the kit’s intended purpose. Mounting the bracket involved the factory-provided holes on the truck frame, designed for accessory mounting, which made the job straightforward. The compatibility with the existing trailer brake control wiring harness was a major plus, meaning no cutting or splicing was required.

During this initial installation, I experienced the kit’s performance under typical automotive undercarriage conditions: mild dirt and the occasional bit of road grime. The bracket’s design allowed for easy access to the brake controller’s ports and controls, which was precisely the goal. There were no surprises or quirks; it simply did what it was designed to do, allowing me to re-mount the brake controller in a location that was both accessible and out of the way of my gooseneck hitch components.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and a few significant towing jobs, this bracket relocation kit has proven its worth. It’s now a permanent fixture, consistently allowing me to adjust trailer brake gain settings before hitting the road or pull over quickly if needed. The Reese bracket has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of rust, bending, or loosening despite exposure to varying weather conditions, from summer heat to autumn dampness.

In terms of durability, the powder coating remains intact, with no significant scuffs or chips even after encountering a stray toolbox or two during other undercarriage work. Maintenance has been nonexistent; it’s a static piece of equipment that doesn’t require cleaning or lubrication. Compared to some makeshift solutions I’ve seen or used in the past, this dedicated kit is far superior. It offers a level of security and professional finish that simply can’t be matched by DIY alternatives, and it certainly outperforms cheaper, generic brackets that might flex or corrode prematurely.

Breaking Down the Features of Reese 58318 Bracket Relocation Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2007 ’20

Specifications

This particular bracket relocation kit is designed specifically for Chevrolet and GMC pickups from 2007 to 2020, specifically those with the “Newer Body Style” and newer “Heavy Duty” models. A crucial specification is its compatibility only with vehicles that have an optional factory trailer brake control. The kit’s function is to move the brake control box to an alternative location on the truck frame.

These specifications are critical because they define the product’s niche and ensure it performs as intended. The model year range and specific truck compatibility mean you don’t have to guess if it will fit; it’s engineered for a precise set of vehicles. The requirement for a factory trailer brake control signifies that it’s designed to interface with OEM wiring and mounting points, making installation a plug-and-play affair for the intended user.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Reese 58318 Bracket Relocation Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2007 ’20 is to provide a secure and accessible mounting point for a factory trailer brake controller when its original location becomes obstructed. In this regard, it performs flawlessly. The bracket holds the control box firmly, preventing any rattling or shifting, even on rough roads or during demanding towing maneuvers.

Its main strength is its direct, no-compromise solution to a specific installation problem. There are no inherent weaknesses in its functionality because its job is so well-defined. It meets and exceeds expectations by providing a seamless integration that feels as if it were a factory option, rather than an aftermarket add-on.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this relocation kit is purely functional, prioritizing sturdiness and ease of installation. It appears to be constructed from heavy-gauge steel, coated with a durable black powder coat finish that protects against corrosion and abrasion. The mounting holes are precisely drilled, aligning perfectly with factory-equipped mounting locations on compatible GM trucks.

Ergonomically, the bracket allows the brake controller to be positioned for optimal reach and visibility. This means that making on-the-fly adjustments to the gain or manually activating the trailer brakes is straightforward and safe while driving. The tactile feel of the metal is solid, and the overall construction inspires confidence that it will last the lifetime of the vehicle.

Durability & Maintenance

Built from robust steel and finished with a tough powder coating, this bracket is designed for the long haul. Under normal operating conditions, which for a truck accessory can include significant vibration, exposure to road salt, mud, and impacts from road debris, it is expected to last for many years without issue.

There are no moving parts to maintain, and cleaning is as simple as a quick wipe-down with a rag if it gets dirty. The only potential point of failure would be extreme physical impact, which is unlikely for its intended mounting location. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of component, which is exactly what you want for under-vehicle accessories.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Reese 58318 Bracket Relocation Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2007 ’20 primarily comes as a standalone unit, often packaged with the necessary mounting hardware. The kit itself is the accessory, designed to work with the factory trailer brake control module that the truck owner already possesses.

There are no real customization options for the bracket itself, nor are there significant aftermarket accessories directly related to it, as its purpose is so specific. It is designed to interface directly with the factory brake controller, meaning you won’t be swapping out its mounting points or adapting it for other devices. Its strength lies in its singular focus.

Pros and Cons of Reese 58318 Bracket Relocation Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2007 ’20

Who Should Buy Reese 58318 Bracket Relocation Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2007 ’20?

This bracket relocation kit is ideal for owners of 2007-2020 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups (newer body style and heavy-duty models) who have installed or plan to install a gooseneck hitch. If your gooseneck hitch setup prevents you from accessing your factory-installed trailer brake controller, this kit is an essential purchase. It is specifically for those who want to maintain the functionality and adjustability of their trailer brake system without resorting to complicated custom fabrication or sacrificing bed space.

Anyone with a different truck model, a different year range, or who does not have a factory-equipped trailer brake control should look elsewhere, as this product will not fit their needs. For those who do qualify, no additional accessories are strictly necessary for its installation, though having a basic socket set or wrench kit will make the process smoother.

Conclusion on Reese 58318 Bracket Relocation Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2007 ’20

The Reese 58318 Bracket Relocation Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2007 ’20 is a highly effective and well-built solution for a common problem encountered by truck owners who tow with gooseneck hitches. Its robust steel construction and vehicle-specific design ensure it integrates seamlessly with compatible GM trucks, providing a durable and accessible mounting point for the trailer brake controller. For its price of $59.59, the value it provides in terms of restoring functionality and preventing installation headaches is considerable.

I would certainly recommend this kit to any owner of a qualifying GM truck who finds their factory brake controller obscured by a gooseneck hitch installation. It’s a straightforward, reliable, and cost-effective way to ensure you can always manage your trailer brakes properly. If you fit the criteria, this is a purchase you won’t regret; it simply does its job quietly and effectively, which is exactly what you want from your truck’s accessories.