Backup Camera Used as Rear "Dash" Cam?

Any of you smart electrical guys know if it would be possible to use the rear facing factory camera as an "all time" camera? Basically use the camera output connected to a recording device to create a sort of "dash" cam.

Sorry if this is a stupid question... but also consider the source.

 

I'm sure it's possible but the resolution would be terrible.

 

True, but probably good enough to read a plate from a hit-and-run or catch someone vandalizing your truck. You know, typical dash cam values...

 

I'm pretty much on the opposite end of "smart electrical guys'' but I considered this and decided it's way easier to just buy a dual lens dashcam.
There's a pretty good selection at reasonable prices on Amazon or eBay. They are very easy to install. I have my rear facing camera on the back window.
Good luck.

 

OR, swap out the rear factory camera for a dash cam so you can have higher quality all around? I was thinking about something like that since I have to relocate my camera anyway because of my swing arm.

 

You just need a splitter for the video input.
Probably don't make this in an Off-the-shelf product. So you will probably have to splice the wires yourself. Most likely it's just coax.

Next you will need a recording device. Find a place to install it and wire it up.

 

no factory cam uses coax, you don’t need coax in an automotive application. just need to split into two wires for the video, problem is the power. You’ll need to power the factory camera 100% of the time, since in only gets power from the reverse engagement at present. Again. Not too difficult but two things come to mind. Don’t use a diode like many of the reverse camera wiring harness do at present, (they use a diode to stop back-powering reverse lights, and it’s not the correct use of a diode, it will eventually fail). and I’m sure the factory camera is not designed to be powered 100% of the time, so expect premature failure.
So it’s easily doable, but probably not recommended since replacing the camera is expensive and a pain.

OP if you’re interested I’ll post a wiring diagram, it’s splicing into 2 wires, cutting another, and running power into one side of the cut wire. They are all on the same connector.

 

No need for the diagram, as you've posted some very good points on why it's not a good idea. Thanks for the input.

 

Actually, I've been thinking about this myself and I kinda like the idea. If I were going to do this, I would install the aftermarket camera system placing the new camera in the OE position. And simply splice out the video feed from the aftermarket system back into the OE HU. Not sure how the OE head unit will interpret a constant video feed? I'll be placing this on my back-burner until I feel the need for a video system.

 

Search dvr in the 3rd gen section. N2 is making a 6 camera dvr mod that will use stock camera plus additionals.

 

A decent front and rear dash cam is not really that expensive. I have the Apeman set up and it works well enough.

 

Ya well your talking to Mr. Accessory (wife calls me that). And you just made me realize that I would need more cameras in my system. Guess I'm glad that someone is making a 6 cam recorder. I can already see a need for 4.

I like that your getting coverage of the bed with your camera. I would prefer something that is a little less obtrusive though. I'm sure it does a good job.

 

This thread may be dead but I’m looking for a switched wire near tailgate so I can install Garmin DC Mini inside my topper on 2019 DC Off Road.

Thanks if anyone can help.