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It really makes me nervous backing this big rig up, so, I am really considering getting a backup camera, which I guess will result in getting a double din head unit, since I don't want a separate monitor mounted on the dash. Any suggestions? Pros? Cons?
I used a Kenwood camera mounted just under the double doors...but above the bumper. I used a rear view mirror made by MITO that has the monitor/screen inside. The picture comes on when I switch into reverse.
I used a Kenwood camera mounted just under the double doors...but above the bumper. I used a rear view mirror made by MITO that has the monitor/screen inside. The picture comes on when I switch into reverse.
I just installed a Kenwood DDX672 head unit along with a license plate back up camera made by Esky EC170-09 off of Amazon (30 bucks). The camera was the easy part of the install, modifying your dash will make you question it a bit. For the "Dash Kit" to fit properly I had to Dremel out the entire lip around all four corners. Most of the installs show only removing the top / bottom. However with the Dash kit it looks very clean.
Just make sure you buy the following parts to help speed up the install and make it look clean.
Metra 95-5817 Dash Kit
Metra 70-1771 Receiver Wiring Harness
Metra 86-5618 Factory Radio Removal Tools
I tapped power into the license plate via the rear left back up light. That way whenever I go into reverse the camera kicks on just like the newer OEM back up cameras. It works great for my use, and has made lining up my hitch a lot better.
You can go with a custom install back up camera as some guys have, but for the price and ease of install I highly recommend it.
My pioneer HU is a few years old and doesn't have the green, yellow, red parking aid lines on the screen, I saw them when the new high end models were released and it didn't seem worth the $ consider what I spent on mine, Then I drove a friends new ford with the factor back up aid... I wouldn't buy a system now with out it.. They are pretty slick.
I also us the license plate frame camera.
I went to a audio store to look at some new gear But they didn't have what I want. However they did have some sweet dash cams which got me thinking... Next head unit will have a dash cam and DVR capabilities.
Most radios have a wire that hooks to the reverse in the truck to sense when you put it in reverse. I wired my camera to a hot wire in the 7 way trailer plug so I can turn on the camera at the head unit when ever I want and it still comes on when I put it in reverse automatically. It's good for checking on short trailers when your going down the road. I just regret mounting the camera right beside the license plate. The license plate light kills the night vision by shining on it.
It really makes me nervous backing this big rig up, so, I am really considering getting a backup camera, which I guess will result in getting a double din head unit, since I don't want a separate monitor mounted on the dash. Any suggestions? Pros? Cons?
I was seeing that you were going to possibly go with a Android head unit, they will do this as well, some of the ones I have seen on E-Bay also include a B/U camera with them. Go ahead and spearhead this project, so I can follow suit, let me know how it goes...
I was seeing that you were going to possibly go with a Android head unit, they will do this as well, some of the ones I have seen on E-Bay also include a B/U camera with them. Go ahead and spearhead this project, so I can follow suit, let me know how it goes...
Yes, I am considering both. Just looking for the best options before spending the money.
Google bluetooth camera if you want a temporary set up. There are several cheap options that I considered. I was just wanting something simple for my infrequent trailer hook-up and not deal with wiring something up and having a monitor in my way all the time. I have not bought one yet, just wanted to share another possible option for you.