Camera for Tacoma with a camper shell. I wanna see all around!

Just started looking at cameras. They don't cost that much. There is one I like called Wolfbox 12" dash cam with a rear view camera for about $150. My question is could this rear view 1" x 1" camera be mounted on the roof behind that little black shark fin? How would I get the wire into the truck without causing a leak?

Also I see people complain about rain water distorting the view. Could a hoodie be made for it?

And all that without it looking like something I would put together in my garage after a few beers?

What have others done about being able to see past that camper shell?
Thanks for your time and for your comments.

 

@MESO makes a 3rd brake light that has a spot for a camera. How come u don’t mount one on the shell itself?

 

I have a camera in the tailgate thats on all the time

 

Meso; Thanks for that as I hadn't considered putting one on the back of the camper shell. I was considering a rack, if needed, but a little camera back there might be a good consideration. More wire to figure out but a good idea..unless I can find a wireless one.
YGYG; I've had a lot of tail gate cameras and I'm thinking I want a higher, better perspective of what is behind me because I, again in my dreams, will be trying to get a small camper to pull. Of course I would probably need a camera on that, like I had on the really nice too big 35' trailer we just sold.
Thanks for your ideas. I appreciate that.

 

Here is what I used for my Alucab Canopy Camper

Rexing M2

Initial Build by Michael Rickerd, on Flickr

https://www.rexingusa.com/product/m2/

Camera mounted here. Best place I could think of. No need to penetrate my camper to get the wiring to the mirror.

Tacoma Modifications by Michael Rickerd, on Flickr

 

MR E30- See you are a Marine. Respect to you. I'm retired Army medical.

 

How are you liking that M2? Where did you mount the rear cam?

 

I kept my OEM camera in place (unplugged) and mounted one up on the top edge of the shell. https://tailgatecamera.com/collections/tailgate-relocate-cameras/products/2020-tacoma-hd-camera-kit-with-oem-wiring-harness

 

We use a company that replaces third brake light in the shell with one that includes a camera. Works for both leer fiberglass and commercial shells probably available for others. You can either add a separate monitor or wire into oem. Can't remember the brand off top of my head but can look once I get into work later this morning.

 

It's great so far. 110+ where I live already, camera is holding up fine, no distorted views or cutouts of any sort.

Look a couple of posts up. You'll see it mounted above my license plate, next to the hole to lower the spare tire. I have the Archive Garage Hammer Hanger cross brace under there, so I mounted my spare to my rear door, so no risk of breaking the camera if I have to change a flat.

 

I have a Tacoma with a camper shell. It's true that the shell cuts down somewhat on the visibility from the inside rear view mirror.

My solution was simply to add an Anytime Backup Camera override harness, and a dash switch, so that I can see the view from the backup camera, just by pushing the switch. Fancy extra cameras are not needed.

 

https://www.mnrelectronics.com/250-8631-3bl-2010-2018-tacoma-tailgate-replacement-camera-kit/

 

@dogodell ; What is the brand of this? I am looking to add a camera to an ARE CX shell on my 2022. I have a bike rack that blocks the view on the tailgate camera. A camera in the shell brake light seems like the cleanest solution, but I can not find one.

 

Sorry missed this somehow. Not sure on the brand think it's AGSI but can't find the name on any of the boxes I have right now... We order directly through leer or are. Not cheap but plug and play solution. If I remember right you just need to know what the oem plug there are 2 for the Tacoma I think and the year.

Not sure what part of the country your in but your local are dealer should be able to help you out.

 

Does the tailgate hit the camera when it is down? Thinking about getting the wolf box dash camera with the same set up. But the only location for the camera is the area that you mounted yours at. Just want to confirm it before buying.

 

No tailgate with the Canopy Camper.

But no, even with a tailgate, it will not hit the camera.