Install rear view camera rv

New color 7-inch monitor upgrade, replacing an older black-and-white system. Your old camera and monitor system is hard-wired and uses a standard 4-wire cable with standard not mini DIN connectors. New camera systems tend to use 6-wire cabling to allow for more connections and controls to the rear camera. I have read so many bad reviews of different wireless and wired systems made in China that I would suggest that you be very wary of these products.

My search led me to a number of interesting wired camera and monitor systems, but many of them were more expensive than I really wanted. My motorhome already had the older 4-wire cable run from the site of the rear camera and to the overhead site where the monitor was mounted. So, the simplest thing for me to do was to reuse this perfectly good cable rather than have to go through the tedious process of routing a new and expensive cable from the rear to the front of my motorhome.

After spending a lot of time searching and looking things up online, I finally found what I wanted from a vendor. I wanted a system that:. So, after a phone call to the company called Tadi-Brothers, and after asking a number of questions of their customer service rep, I finally ordered my new system. At first glance, this was not a simple bolt-on job, though, so let me explain what I got in the box from the manufacturer, and then what my plan was. So, as you can see, I had a number of things to sort through and figure out in order to get the right signals and voltages connected to the camera and to the monitor.

After looking at all of the different adapters, cables, and such, the job seemed to be pretty complex—but I calmed myself down and went over what I had versus what I really needed. First of all, I examined the new camera. The camera actually only uses three connections: video output, VDC input, and ground. Once I realized this, my collection of adapters were easy to sort out for the specific one I actually needed.

The original 4-wire cable already installed in my motorhome only used these three connections plus one more for an audio connection. My rear camera mounted to the old panel using epoxy. So, knowing the rear wiring needs, I tore out the old camera mount, mounting panel and all. And I immediately saw my first problem. The old camera was itself made by Westek, and its mounting system entailed 4 screws on the sides mounted to two brackets, which were a part of the rear camera bracket.

Surprised by this new situation I figured that a beer was now in order, so I brought the parts back to my house and stared at my problem for a while. I even slept on the problem for a couple of days before I came up with the following solution.

Once I understood these things, I decided to build my own mounting system, and it was going to involve the judicious use of epoxy and a modified house receptacle panel.

I went to the hardware store and purchased a cheap white home receptacle cover. Using a knife and a file, I cut out the center opening until my smaller camera fit tightly when the cover was placed over the camera. I then placed the two screws into the sides of the camera, I placed two screws into the original camera mounting holes, and I placed two screws into the front plastic panel I had modified.

Using some masking tape I put all of these parts together and what I had was several screws sticking out near each other. So, after a few well-placed pieces of masking tape, I mixed up some epoxy and poured it over the ends of all of the extended screws.

The next day? I had a solidly mounted camera in the motorhome bracket. So, I connected it to the old cable, and went inside my motorhome to tackle the monitor. Removing the old monitor and installing the new monitor was a lot easier.

The whole monitor is removable just using a screwdriver. One cable contains the 12V DC and ground wires. The other cable is the other end of the already installed old 4-pin-DIN cable. Again, I looked at the pile of cables and adapters sent to me by the manufacturer and I quickly found the combination I needed and threw the others into a box.

The hole in the cabinet above the dash was around by, and the old mounting used a removable plastic molding. I mounted my new monitor to the piece of plywood, and then I drilled a 1-inch hole in the plywood for the wiring connections to pass through. With that said, it is not a good idea to buy a camera, which comes with a screen or monitor if your dash comes with a screen already. In this case, it would be best to buy a standalone camera — one, which you can connect to a screen with an HDMI connector.

You can also choose to purchase a Wi-Fi-based camera, which you can directly connect to the screen of your smartphone using a dedicated application. Such is beneficial because it is hassle-free and requires only minimal wiring. It does not also cause issues during the installation. Field of view — The field of view of an RV backup camera is also extremely important as it contributes a lot to the width of its viewing angle.

In most cases, backing up or reversing your RV requires you to have a wider field of view to guarantee ease and your own safety.

In this case, look for a backup camera designed for recreational vehicles that can provide a minimum of degree field of view. You can also go for wider views and bigger sensors as you can find them on the market today.

If you want a better-performing backup camera, then go for models with a degree field of view. Mounting options — It is also necessary to look for an RV backup camera with the specific mounting option that is compatible with what you need.

Some of your options are the surface mounted, the flush mounted, and the license mounted. The most popular choice is the surface mounted, which lets you mount the camera on a flat surface found at the rear of your vehicle. The ideal choice is to mount your backup camera up high. This will give you an excellent view while giving you a more decent depth perception.

Another mounting option is the flush-mounted. This is a good choice if you prefer a device, which is more discreet and sleeker. What you will see from the outside are the camera lens and the bezel only. One benefit of the flush-mounted camera is that it is less exposed to harsh elements and the weather. The problem is that it is not possible for you to mount this type of camera too high on your vehicle. Lastly, there is the license-mounted RV backup camera.

With this camera, drilling holes or making modifications to the exterior of your vehicle is no longer necessary. While it is convenient, take note that the positioning is also limited to the exact location of your license plate. In most cases, you will get a view, which is close to the surface of the road. Weather resistance — Another vital factor to consider when it comes to searching for a good wired or wireless backup camera for travel trailer and RV is its ability to resist the harsh weather outdoors.

The weather-resistant nature of the backup camera is essential, especially if your vehicle often experiences various outdoor conditions for a long period.

If the body of the backup camera and its connectors are not designed in such a way that they can handle the harsh effects of the snow, rain, heat, and dust, it will most likely need replacement soon. Constant replacements will only cause you to spend more than necessary. Ensure that your chosen camera is weatherproof or weather-resistant so it will last for a prolonged period.

Night vision — If possible, look for an RV backup camera with a night vision. Remember that you will not only park your vehicle in broad daylight.

You can use this feature during those instances when you need to back up your RV safely in dusk, dawn, night, or darkness.

With the night vision capability of the camera, you have an assurance that you will be able to see clearly when parking. The majority of backup cameras also utilize infrared LEDs, thereby offering visibility even during those situations when you are dealing with pitch-black darkness. Auto-power on — You can find this feature in most high-end backup camera models. With that, you can expect the camera to go online automatically each time you reverse your vehicle.

It also provides live feed automatically every time you need it. This is an added convenience to RV owners so if possible, look for this feature in a backup camera prior to buying. An RV backup camera is a helpful device that can be installed in any recreational vehicle. It is the perfect solution when it comes to dealing with the challenges associated with reverse driving. You will also find the backup camera useful in case you get stuck on a busy street or along a narrow road.

Also called rearview or reversing camera, this special kind of video camera is specifically designed to be attached to the rear of your RV, so you will receive immediate help in backing up. It is also helpful in alleviating rear blind spot. Another of the major function of this camera is to prevent a backup collision.

Note that the specific areas that are directly behind vehicles are known as killing zones. You can minimize your risk of dealing with danger on the road once you connect this camera to your RV. With the help of the camera, you can easily maneuver your vehicle out of the mentioned situations. The majority of the vehicles today already come with this camera. However, older models do not have this device. If yours does not come with the backup camera yet then it is best to invest in one.

With the RV backup camera around, driving in reverse and preventing yourself from backing into obstacles that might be in a blind spot will be easier. Generally, the backup camera shows its ability to improve your safety.

Aside from offering protection on a driveway, it can also keep you safe each time you drive in a highway. Your RV backup camera can be expected to work based on your chosen installation option. Note that there are actually two installation options for the camera. The first one is by wiring it into a reversing light. This option makes the backup camera helpful each time you need to reverse. Another option is wiring it to a constant source of power.

If you choose this option, then you can expect your RV backup camera to be extremely helpful during reversing modes and each time you drive on a highway. It can keep you safe in both scenarios. For the RV backup camera to work, it should also have its key qualities.

These include enabled night vision, wide field of view, and interference protection vital for the wireless cameras. If possible, pick only those that have a field of view of at least 90 degrees. In case you decide to go for the wireless backup camera then you have to spend time scrutinizing its level of interference. If you are getting the analog signal then note that it is prone to interference. If possible, go for the digital signal if you do not want anything to interfere with the way it functions.

Also, take note that the main design of the RV backup camera is totally different from the other types. It is because the image of the backup camera is flipped horizontally as a means of producing a mirror image output. This specific design is necessary since the driver and the camera are facing in opposite directions. With a mirrored image, the camera can produce a consistent orientation of the display.

It also often makes use of the fisheye or wide-angle lens. Such a lens makes the camera work in viewing a horizontal path without any interruption. You can also point the camera downwards if you want to see any potential hazards or obstacles on the ground.

It also works in seeing the actual position of any approaching docks and walls. RV backup cameras actually come in different types and it is advisable to get yourself familiar with each type if you want to increase your chance of picking the best choice. The following are your options in case you are looking for the best backup cameras designed for recreational vehicles:. Box Camera — This is one of the most popular styles or types of RV backup camera available today.

This backup camera is one that you can easily mount in your RV, trailer, 5 th wheel, and farm or construction equipment, among many other possible applications. It has the standard degree field of vision as well as other useful features including the adjustable sunshade and U-bracket for mounting, automatic night vision LED lights and waterproof housing. Your options also include other features, like the high-resolution CCD lenses as well as the grid lines that make it possible for you to determine the distance of the things that are behind you.

Some of the models of this device also come with a double camera, making it possible for you to use one camera in viewing the trailer hitch and the other in viewing down the road.

It works in almost all applications, not only in RVs. You can expect it to be compatible for use with trucks, cars, trailers, and campers, among many others too.

It functions in all vehicles that have US-sized license plates. One thing that you have to take note of about this type of backup camera is that it features automatic night vision LED lights that are extremely useful during low-light conditions.

You can also find a low-profile variety of this backup camera, which you can use in those states that do not allow anything to cover the license plate. This camera also features grid lines, making it possible for you to judge the specific distance of certain objects that are behind you. Other things that you can see in the license plate camera are hi-res CCD lenses and the black or silver exterior finish.

You will also most likely see a full-frame version with this camera being attached to the license frame. Bumper Camera — This type has a compact design and manufactured in such a way that you can mount it to the bumper. Most modern trucks, cars, and RVs already feature a small and removable piece where you can mount this device.

Side View Camera — This is ideal for huge vehicles that have large blind spots or limited visibility. Some examples of these vehicles are semi-trucks, campers, and recreational vehicles. It is a good choice as it lets you see all the things surrounding your vehicle no matter what direction you are going. It does such function with the help of the split screen monitor as well as the front-facing and the rearview camera. Dashboard camera — The dash cam has also become a popular option for those who drive for commercial purposes and those who commute several miles on a daily or regular basis.

If unfortunately, you experienced an accident, the dash cam serves as a conclusive evidence that shows the exact scenario. It records footage on an SD card. You can also monitor it remotely using your tablet or smartphone. Surface-mounted camera — This is a device, which you can mount on a flat surface.

In most cases, you can mount it high up. Such positioning is beneficial as it provides you with an excellent depth perception and a commanding view. This makes it an extremely good choice for large vehicles, like RVs. It offers a clean look because the only visible parts are the bezel and lens. However, take note that this camera is positioned in such a way that it levels the road. Wired camera — One of the major advantages of the wired backup camera system designed for recreational vehicles is that it provides the most impressive quality as well as the most stable images.

The only problem with this wired camera is that it is more difficult to install when you compare it to the wireless backup camera system. Still, it is a perfect choice if your recreational vehicle is metal-skinned. Wireless backup camera — As the name suggests, this backup camera designed for RVs utilizes wireless technology to work.

It is the easiest to install. However, it also has a drawback, which is the fact that it is more prone to interference that might trigger the loss of signal. This is the main reason why you have to check it regularly if you decide to install it in your RV to determine any level of interference.

So what can you expect to gain from installing an RV backup camera? Here are just some of its most remarkable advantages:. Promotes ease in parking — By installing a backup camera in your recreational vehicle, parking will be much easier for you. With that, there is a possibility that you will encounter challenges getting in and out of spots with street-side parking.

Also, no matter how professional you are in parallel parking, you may still experience problems especially if the vehicle ahead of you or behind you leaves, causing a new one to slide closer. This might cause you to only have less room for you to maneuver your vehicle. With the help of the backup cameras, the mentioned parking nightmares can be prevented.

They can help you park conveniently without the risk of backing into or grazing another vehicle during the process. Helps you save money — A backup camera installed in RVs can help you prevent minor scratches and bumps, which can also lead to fewer insurance claims and subsequently lower premiums.

Also, several car insurance providers offer discounts for those who have car safety equipment around, such as a backup camera. In addition, the camera also serves as an irrefutable evidence in case of an accident wherein you are not at fault. You just have to modify or set the camera so it will be able to record. This will let you save money since you will not have to pay for expenses related to the incident.

Make sure the camera's settings and picture quality are to your liking. Depending on whether you're hauling something i. Follow our quick tips, or take to YouTube or RV forums for more tips. Installing A Wired RV Backup Camera Wired backup cameras provide a bright and stable picture, over the long haul, most consider them to be the better deal.

Installation Instructions First, understand that taking the time to plan a wired installation is critical. Installation Instructions You will need isopropyl alcohol, a clean rag, a cordless drill with screw bits, and silicone sealant for installation.

Test, Test, Test With any backup camera system, you want to test the connection and calibrate the setup. Related Posts. Find a Backup Camera? Recent posts.