DIY: Back up camera

Here you go for sharing in case anyone here is interested in doing this project.

Some disclaimers first:
Do this at your own risk. I will not be responsible for your own actions.

Im also posting for sharing. I am not here to argue or debate with anyone. If this helps you a simple thanks goes a long way.

Kindly keep criticisms to yourself. Sorry, I don’t do perfect work.

So as not to risk getting in trouble with the moderators for favoring a specific equipment or supplier – I will no longer provide direct link or info on where I got my equipment from. Sorry….

Situation:
Difficult to see when backing up. I cannot live without a back up camera system. Always worried about backing into something, not only damaging my bumper but also hitting people, animals, light posts, bicycle, kids, pets, other cars, etc, so this upgrade is on top of my priority list. Finally done.

Difficulty level: 5 out of 10.
Total hours it took me is 16 hours. Yours should be a lot shorter since all the info you need is already provided here.

Items needed:
Back up camera, LCD monitor or your own double din head unit with back up camera input, extra wires, tie straps, drill, 3M double back tape, patience, good beer.

Important: Always turn battery master power switch off anytime you are working on electrical systems.

Note: I decided to use a dedicated monitor & not use a double din head unit with video input as I don’t what the flip up screen to block A/C vents.

Complete DIY instructions with lots of photos on a pdf file attached.

Hope this helps some of you.

Dan
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Note: I had to compress the DIY pdf file as it exceeds the limit of 2.6mb. If you want the high resolution version just eMail me and I will eMail you a copy.

Dan

 

Thanks everyone for the appreciation. Sincerely appreciated.

I received a couple of PM's with very good questions so I thought I'd post it here for sharing.

Q: Why not go wireless?

Great question! Yes, I looked into wireless back up camera but I decided to go hardwire for solid connection. Just like cellphone signals and wireless security cameras, nothing more frustrating to me than signal drop outs so I decided to go hardwire connection.

I also searched and searched and was not able to find a very well made & reliable 12V video transceiver. If some of you come across one kindly share info with us.

I also learned that Garmin makes a good wireless back up camera system. However, I already have 3 dedicated GPS and none of them are compatible with their wireless back up camera system and I really dont want to buy another GPS. Plus, I want a 7" LCD bigger screen.

Thanks!

Dan

 

Hi, great info.

Kindly share what you learn about the GoPro back up camera system so that we can help others here too that are considering doing this mod.

Thanks.

Dan

 

By the way, the monitor that I purchased has two video inputs.

My next mod is Front View Camera so that I wont have to worry about scraping my front bumper when parking.

Will share that DIY here soon / once Im done.

If some of you want to know the parts I chose just PM me and I will share that info with you.

Dan

 

LOL! Thanks Matt!

Yes, we dont get that much sunshine here in Seattle area.
I will work on tanning my legs ASAP

I better get back to work.

You all have a fun day!

Dan

 

A couple of more info for sharing that was asked:

1) No need to drill holes to mount the camera. Use 3M double back tape. Super strong.

2) No need to drill holes too to mount the LCD monitor. The monitor kit comes with double back tape for the monitor bracket, most likely made by 3M too that is super strong and holds the monitor down firmly to the center console.

I hate drilling holes. Its always a last resort.

 

Great question.

I recently installed a dashcam and will be sharing that DIY here soon.
I have mine hardwired so there is no wire dangling from center console cigarette lighter connection.

And yes, I highly recommend a dashcam as people out there will always try and blame someone else for something that is their own doing. Videos speaks for themselves.

Will share soon.

Dan

 

Excellent! Thanks for sharing info Andrie.

Dan

 

Thanks Kevin.

The problem I have with double din Head Units are = the head unit itself has to stick out about an inch from the dashboard in order to clear the center A/C vents. (I know this as I installed double din HU on my 360 Spider.) And when the display is extended out it blocks more than 50% of the A/C vents.....

But to each his own so as long as it doesnt bother you - then its all good.
In life - always do whatever makes you happy.

Dan

 

Picture's worth a thousand words.

That is certainly a great option for a double din HU installation.

If its the carbon fiber weave that is an issue to you Im certain you can find a matching carbon fiber overlay in Fleabay.

Would you happen to have a source for that custom made center console double din faceplate?

Dan