Rearview camera installation

I wasn’t able to find much information from others who have done this so I thought I’d share some highlights of my experience.


I had limo tent on the rear windows of the cab. Then I added an ARE camper shell and limo tented those windows. My rear view mirror became useless.


Solution, install a camera on the back of the truck with a monitor which replaces the rear view mirror. Bonus, the cameras record front and rear!


I recommend plugging everything in and making sure it all works before starting the install. Make sure all the cables are working properly before taking the effort to run them.


There are a few options out there for rear view cameras. After some research I chose one off Amazon, urvolax. I’m happy with it so far but this isn’t a product review. Just sharing details of what I picked out if anyone is interested.


URVOLAX OEM 12" Mirror Dash Cam...

URVOLAX OEM 12" Mirror Dash Cam Voice Control,Car Backup Rear View Mirror Camera with Detached Front Lens,1296P Full HD Digital Rearview Dual Split Screen,Night Vision,Parking Assist,GPS

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09C1QVYHM?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share


I also used a dash cam hardwire kit, 1/4 inch PET Braided Expandable Cable Sleeve, and some zip ties.


Now, let’s get to the install.

Removal of stuff:

Driver side A post cover and sun visor.

overhead control panel near mirror.

rear view mirror.

Drivers door and driver rear door foot plates.


Installation of stuff:

Monitor mounted easy peasy on stock windshield tab with kit included with new mirror.

Rear camera has multiple mounting options. I chose to adhere it to the back glass of camper.

Front camera adheres to windshield.


Now the fun part, wire management.

I wrapped the rear camera cable in the cable sleeve to provide a little protection from chafing.

Front camera is easy. Push all the extra cable into headliner and situate neatly behind overhead control panel.

Power and rear camera cables were fed to headliner then run to A post. Carefully routed to the backside of the airbags and down to the floor behind the weatherstripping for the drivers door. The power was tapped into the fuse box and the rear camera continued its journey rearward. I ran the rear camera cable under the foot plate just past the front seat. Then through the floor utilizing a large rubber grommet. Once outside the vehicle I followed the other wiring harnesses along the frame rail all the way to the back. A fish tape is your best friend. Once at the back I followed wiring to driver tail light. Using a fish tape I pulled the wire into the bed and ran along wiring for camper third brake light.


Test one more time and then put it all back together in reverse order of disassembly.


I added some RTV to the grommet after the photo just for piece of mind.


The extra cabling for the rear camera is currently stashed in corner of camper. I plan to relocate the extra back under the truck for a cleaner look.


I hope this helps someone else.

 

Thanks for posting this. I’m on the hunt for a topper, and trying to plan out a rear view when I install.

How has this held up for you so far?

 

I definitely need this

 

Not bad.. I need this on my FJ Cruiser. I have tint and and a 33" tire mounted on the rear door hatch so I can't see a damn thing when backing up.
Can this be programmed to only come on when in reverse?

 

Nicely done, very useful.

 

It’s been 6 months and no complaints. Video quality is surprisingly good, front and rear. Rain causes some issues with rear view since there is no wiper on the camper. Overall I’m very pleased with results.

 

I think so. I seem to recall there being a remote wire you can hook up to tail lights. I use it full time so I can’t confirm for sure. Check with the manufacturer.