Aftermarket Backup Camera

tyhuck · November 19, 2014

Has anyone ever installed or had any experience with any of the aftermarket backup cameras that hook into an aftermarket stereo? I am looking at installing one in my truck, but Im not sure which ones to look at, which ones to stay away from, and which ones are a good deal or are junk. I have found them priced anywhere from $16 - $100+. Im working on a budget so I don't want to pay out the nose, but I don't want one that is gonna crap out on me in a month or so. I also don't want to make it too conspicuous so that any would-be thief would know that I have an expensive radio in the truck and attempt to steal it.

Ive seen the kind that mount to the license plate, and also found some that mount in a hole drilled in the bumper. Im kinda leaning toward the later, but I don't know. If anyone has any input, please post it up.

99k1500 · November 20, 2014

I purchased mine from Walt - ADCMobile... It is the tailgate handle variety which is great for hooking up the trailer.

Forgot the price but the kit and instructions made connectivity a no brainer.

I think I am over two years on it now.

tyhuck · November 20, 2014

Yeah, I found some like that, but they were all over $250. Wasn't really looking to spend that much. That's exactly why I wanted it though. hooking up trailers, backing trailers, or even looking for small cars and small children behind my truck is kinda difficult because the tailgate sits so high and creates a huge blind spot.

I guess I jumped the gun and didn't wait long enough for replies, but I found one on eBay that recesses into a flat surface, but also pivots in a ball socket so its adjustable. My plan is to drill into the trim ring on the tailgate handle and mount it there, like what you have and what the factory does. Its only $30 so if it works, its a great deal, and if it doesn't, well, I havent lost much. I thought it would be worth trying.

kstruckcountry · November 20, 2014

Let us know how it works, I'm thinking about getting one too.

tyhuck · November 20, 2014

Will do. I got everything ordered, and it looks like it will come in by this weekend, except for the installation kit. Aint that always the way. The most important part is the last one to come in.

kstruckcountry · November 20, 2014

Which head unit did you go with?

tyhuck · November 21, 2014

I got a JVC KW-V20 BT. It retails for $300 min., but I got a factory refurb for $229. Its more than I have ever spent on a HU, and it was really more than I wanted to spend this time, but I wanted the backup camera so I didn't really have a choice. Most everything I could find that was close to my budget had really crappy reviews, or didn't have Bluetooth hands-free calling. I already have an older JVC single DIN in the truck now that has all the options I wanted, except the camera, so I definitely didn't want to spend more money for less options. I was just lucky enough to find a factory refurb unit at such a big savings. Saved me enough money on the HU to pay for the rest of the install parts.

kstruckcountry · November 21, 2014

I like the looks of that one. My factory unit randomly shuts off and resets sometimes, and once wouldn't turn on or light up when I started the pickup. So may be time for a new one before long. I primarily use Spotify playlists from my phone, if I'm not listening to FM. Being able to do DVDs isn't really something I need though.

Currently I'm routing into the factory unit thru an iSimple interface that works great. I can skip songs with the steering wheel, while playing from the phone. I like not having to worry about people stealing my radio. But if you end up really liking this one I may have to go for it.

tyhuck · November 21, 2014

Yeah, I didn't really care about or want the DVD function either, but those seem to be the only ones that have the backup camera function, because they are just about the only ones that have a screen capable of the job. I guess at some point it might be nice to run some screens to the back seats for the kids, but Im not gonna intentionally sit in the truck to watch a movie. I have better things to do.

tyhuck · November 22, 2014

Well, looks like the install kit and camera are coming in today, and the stereo is coming in on Monday. I was hoping it would all make it in by the weekend, but I guess I will have to find time to get it in sometime next week.

tyhuck · November 30, 2014

Got it all hooked up earlier this week. Still learning the new HU, but the backup camera is working very well. I will say that for $30, it was a pretty good product, so far.

kstruckcountry · December 1, 2014

Awesome, glad to hear it since this may be on the horizon for me....

Johnny_Thunders · January 1, 2015

I'm in the same Boat. I'm swapping my whole sound system and want to add a Backup camera, I got a WiFi License plate Camera. The instructions are pathetic. I'll wire the Camera itself though the Backup lights. This will mean I can't use it to monitor my Tow Load, but I'm not worried bout that.

My issue is wiring the Head unit. I need to tap into the Gear shift to activate the camera when I reverse. I can't find the schematic showing me which wires I need to tap to connect the head unit. I got a 07 Sierra Z71 Ext Cab.

How did you wire you head unit in?

tyhuck · January 2, 2015

I ran a wire to the junction box near the driver kick panel. I think its a green one. Ide take a picture, but I actually sold the truck last week, so I will try to find the link to the site I found it on.

On a related note, I have all my sound system stuff up for sale if anyone wants it.