Back-Up Camera
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URL: http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408
Printed Date: 04 May 2024 at 6:45am
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Topic: Back-Up Camera
Posted By: Sleepless
Subject: Back-Up Camera
Date Posted: 16 Feb 2014 at 12:44pm
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With my past SUVs, I would lower the back seat and open the rear hatch to get a view of both my hitch ball and the pod's coupler. Aligning the ball and coupler was very simple. Now, with a full-size pickup, I have lost that line of sight when trying to alight everything for hitching up. I have read many reports on wireless back up cameras and monitors, but most are either too expensive or perform poorly. Does anyone have any positive experience with an affordable wireless system? It must be wireless. I might add that through the years I have had relatively good success with the "tennis ball" alignment devices that affix magnetically to the top of the ball and the top of the coupler. Now I want to go a little more high tech. Bob ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Replies:
Posted By: CharlieM
Date Posted: 16 Feb 2014 at 1:29pm
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Bob, This won't totally answer you question, but here's my experience. First, and fortunately, all my TVs have cameras built in so my need was for a rear view camera on the trailer while driving. I first installed a wireless system from http://www.rearviewsafety.com/ - http://www.rearviewsafety.com/ . Performance was fair but, even though they advertised digital, it was really analog so it was susceptible to interference from outside sources, cell phones, and BlueTooth devices. However it was about $300, had a 7" monitor, and worked from the rear of the pod. RVS has a cheaper wireless system designed for your application that has a 3.5" monitor and probably will work OK. When I upgraded to my present Camplite 21 and Tacoma TV the RVS system became unusable. Just too much whizbang electronics in the new truck for continuous operation, but it probably would have been OK for hitching. My cell phone and BlueTooth devices were too much for the analog technology. My new setup includes a Voyager system that is true digital, probably CDMA like BlueTooth, and works very well. And it's very expensive! But, again, we use it while driving to watch the highway and traffic recede behind us. Makes my wife very comfortable and that makes me very comfortable!  ------------- Charlie Northern Colorado OLD: 2013 RP-172, 2010 Honda Pilot 3.5L 4WD PRESENT: 2014 Camplite 21RBS, 2013 Supercharged Tacoma 4L V6 4WD |
Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 16 Feb 2014 at 5:46pm
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Charlie, thanks for the detailed response. My last Class A motor home had a full-time night vision rear view camera that worked great, but it was designed to show areas farther behind than the rear bumper of the motor home. My tow vehicles have had back-up cameras integrated with the navigation systems, but they, also, can not give me a view of my hitch ball. I have been studying the iBall wireless trailer hitch camera, which can be magnetically mounted on the back of the TV for hitching up, and later on the back of the trailer for manuvering into a campsite or backing up in general. Some reports indicate that as you mentioned, it is sometimes prone to interference from Blue Tooth devices and other sources. Our cell phones, On Star, navigation system, etc. may all be possible sources of interference. For this reason, I am hoping that one or more members are using a system that is not compromised by such interference. Maybe such an animal does not exist. My magnetic shafts with the tennis balls works reasonably well, and I can line up ball and coupler with surprising accuracy, but I was hoping there might be a higher tech, but relatively inexpensive, alternative to the tennis balls. Thanks again, Charlie. Bob ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: CharlieM
Date Posted: 16 Feb 2014 at 6:11pm
Ah yes. "Relatively inexpensive". An unrecognized term in high tech solutions, even when fabricated from Chinium. 
------------- Charlie Northern Colorado OLD: 2013 RP-172, 2010 Honda Pilot 3.5L 4WD PRESENT: 2014 Camplite 21RBS, 2013 Supercharged Tacoma 4L V6 4WD |
Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 16 Feb 2014 at 8:53pm
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You are absolutely right. When it comes to my photographic and computer equipment, the costs are unbelievably high. For a back-up camera, I would not be so extravagant. Maybe "less extravagant" is a better term than "relatively inexpensive." ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: dsmiths
Date Posted: 16 Feb 2014 at 10:32pm
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I have an I Baller, I think I paid about 100 bucks about 2 years ago, it works quite well but still takes a little practice as the camera flips the frame and everything is backwards, just like looking into a security camera when you move left the image moves right. its a pretty good little system. If you want you can stick it on the back of the pod and watch as you back into a camping spot. ------------- Dane and Donna Smith 2011 RP-172 2008 Chevrolet Trailblazer 4X4 lift kit prodigy wireless brake controller |
Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 17 Feb 2014 at 12:01am
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The iBall is the unit that caught my eye until I read several of the reviews. The only problem noted was interference caused by Blue Tooth devices, as Charlie warned. My Avalanche has 3 Blue Tooth devices and we carry 2 smartphones that are also Blue Tooth. After much thought, I am still tempted to try an iBall. They retail for $149.95, with refurbished ones available for $134.95. I purchase most of my electronic equipment and cameras that are refurbished and have had excellent success with them. iBall has a promo code for $15.00 off, so a refurbished unit would only be $120 w/free shipping. Unless I hear worse reports, I plan to purchase one, only for the task of hitching up my pod and for backing it into camping sites. Another good feature is that it is completely portable. Thanks, dsmiths. Bob ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: CharlieM
Date Posted: 17 Feb 2014 at 7:48am
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Bob, Looks like you are zeroing in on the iBall. There are a few others in the same price range also available from Amazon in case you haven't seen them. I haven't checked the specs other than they both have 3.5" monitors. Of course they all operate in the no mans land of 2.4GHz, probably analog for the price. For short hitching exercises the Blue Tooth problem can be managed. Not selling anything; just trying to help you get rid of that extra cash.  http://www.rearviewsafety.com/products/wireless-systems/hitch-camera-reversing-system.html - http://www.rearviewsafety.com/products/wireless-systems/hitch-camera-reversing-system.html http://www.amazon.com/Hopkins-50002-Smart-Camera-System/dp/B00CTLGSZO/ref=pd_sim_sbs_auto_3?ie=UTF8&refRID=19V9X0Y2QY38MPM0QZ7N - http://www.amazon.com/Hopkins-50002-Smart-Camera-System/dp/B00CTLGSZO/ref=pd_sim_sbs_auto_3?ie=UTF8&refRID=19V9X0Y2QY38MPM0QZ7N ------------- Charlie Northern Colorado OLD: 2013 RP-172, 2010 Honda Pilot 3.5L 4WD PRESENT: 2014 Camplite 21RBS, 2013 Supercharged Tacoma 4L V6 4WD |
Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 17 Feb 2014 at 2:34pm
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dsmiths, I notice that the new model is switchable between normal and mirror image.
------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: Dave NE TX
Date Posted: 17 Feb 2014 at 3:27pm
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Looking at the Yada BR53328F-1. My TV has a backup camera but I was thinking about one of these for the back of the pod. I'm more concerned about my driveway than I am camping areas, but it might be nice to be able to switch it on using the tail light circuit to get a better look at what's behind me on the road. Anybody have any experience with this camera? ------------- Dave and Cindy RP179 2010 ML350 1 Schnauzer, 1 "Pound Puppy" |
Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 21 Feb 2014 at 4:21pm
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Just a quick update on my possible choices for a back-up camera for my pick-up. I do have a navigation system with a back-up camera, but the camera does not show my trailer hitch ball. My fist choice was the wireless iBall, which seems like a great system and is versatile in that the camera is magnetic and can be mounted on the back of the truck for hitching up, and later it can be mounted on the rear of the pod for backing up. I am sometimes forgetful, and eventually I know I would forget to remove the camera and run the possibility of losing it while on the road. Right now I am leaning toward the wired Smart Hitch by Hopkins. It sells almost everywhere for $149, but etrailer has it for $119. Wiring the monitor is somewhat exacting, but I believe it is worth the extra effort. This unit is switchable, with settings for hitching up and one for use as a true back up camera. I still have a few details to work out on my truck, but this is now my unit of choice. If anyone has a better idea, your comments will be appreciated. Bob ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 21 Feb 2014 at 7:39pm
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Something really simple to try - since you already have the backup camera, maybe mounting a small mirror at a 45 degree angle pointed towards the ball would allow you to see it? It might require using a magnifying mirror to allow you to see anything with the camera's fish eye lens. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual 
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Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 21 Feb 2014 at 8:30pm
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When I bought the Avalanche, my first thought was to mount a removable mirror on the trailer tongue, angled to see both the coupler and the hitch ball. After assessing the hassles involved in mounting, aiming and storing the mirror, I abandoned that idea. Your suggestion seems to have more merit, but some of the same problems would still be there. My "tennis balls" on shafts with magnetic bases work well, but I still prefer a higher tech solution such as the Smart Hitch camera which requires no setup and does not need to be stored. It also has built-in sensors which assist in backing up and parallel parking. I may try your mirror suggestion this weekend, if the height of the camera beam will allow it to work. My last TV also had a backup camera that shared the navigation system monitor. It, too, was mounted high and was worthless when lining up with a trailer. Everything becomes more difficult as you age. Bob ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 22 Feb 2014 at 12:46pm
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My TV doesn't have a backup camera and with its length I really need to get one. If you do buy the Smart Hitch I'll be curious how it works out.
------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 22 Feb 2014 at 1:50pm
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Doug, the Smart Hitch is still my hitch of choice. I have not ordered one yet only because I can't find a suitable dash location to mount the monitor without having exposed wires. Your Suburban and my Avalanche should have similar dash configurations. Any suggestions? I don't want to mount it on the windshield or disfigure my dash. Bob ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 22 Feb 2014 at 4:02pm
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They should be the same, I'll take a look but I probably won't be in my truck until Monday.
------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 25 Feb 2014 at 4:58pm
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On my TV, there is a flat area on the dash immediately right of the gear shift lever. I don't know the thickness of the monitor, but if it fits, this may be my mounting location of choice. There are a few other areas that might also work without drilling any holes in the dash.
------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 25 Feb 2014 at 6:53pm
I remembered as I was pulling into the parking lot at work but then got distracted as I was backing in.  I'll try to remember tomorrow.
------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 27 Feb 2014 at 4:14pm
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I looked at mine this morning and to the right of the shifter there was almost no room before hitting the center console stack. What little room there is, is covered by the shifter. The only "good" places that I could see are on top of the dash to the left and right. Down low on the left is open but it would be hard to see and it would get kicked all the time. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 28 Apr 2014 at 10:51pm
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A quick update on the Smart Hitch backup camera system. I finally bought one and find the performance is flawless, but found one installation problem. In Florida (and I imagine several other states) the license plate tag being the expiration date is in the upper right hand corner of the plate. When the bracket housing the camera and sensors is installed, it almost completely covers the tag, hiding the registration expiration date. I have emailed the company, requesting a solution to the problem and should have their response within the next few days. My plate is sandwiched between the rear bumper and the tailgate, so I can't imagine a satisfactory solution from them. Something to think about if you are considering purchasing the Smart Hitch. ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: Boomertype
Date Posted: 29 Apr 2014 at 12:13am
In Washington state, they can give you a ticket for having a bike rack blocking the plate. My wife had a written warning for having a clear plastic cover over her plate on her car. The law is vague and up to interpretation. I'm sure if they wanted to they could ticket you. Hope they get the install fixed.
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Posted By: bonanddoug
Date Posted: 04 Aug 2014 at 9:57am
| Has anyone tried the iPhone camera from 4ucam? |
Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 04 Aug 2014 at 11:13am
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I came up with my own solution for the license plate problem. I fabricated a backer plate that fits behind the license plate and extends about 1.5 inches above the license plate itself. I attached the Smart Hitch camera and sensors to that plate and everything blends in well and the registration tag is not obscured. The company could not offer a solution, so it is up to the purchaser to do whatever works for them. Bob ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: Puck Podders
Date Posted: 04 Aug 2014 at 4:55pm
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I have an extremely expensive device but it does work remarkably well. If it ever fails the expenses associated with the failure could apparently cost me half of my net worth. For this reason I am very cautious with how I use it. Clearness of instruction spoken with kindness and flexibility are written in BOLD print with the instructions. So far it has worked great. You can find them everywhere but quality consistency is apparently an issue with some. I have lucked out! They are known as Wilma's Incredibly Fine Experience or W.I.F.E. for short. Once the hitch is on it may stay forever. Hope you enjoy yours as much as I enjoy mine. ------------- Rick & Wilma 'Hairy' Gracie 2015 178 GMC Sierra |
Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 04 Aug 2014 at 5:43pm
Wilmaaaaaaa! Sorry Rick, I couldn't help myself.  fred ------------- 2014 RPod 178 => https://goo.gl/CV446f - MyMods and Buying Habits 2008 4Runner Limited 4.0-liter V6 Yes, those are wild ponies dining on grass while dumping tanks! |
Posted By: Puck Podders
Date Posted: 04 Aug 2014 at 6:27pm
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Great Pic! ------------- Rick & Wilma 'Hairy' Gracie 2015 178 GMC Sierra |
Posted By: Budward
Date Posted: 04 Aug 2014 at 7:23pm
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WIFE?? I've heard many a divorce has resulted from backing instructions and two person kayaks.
------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 04 Aug 2014 at 7:58pm
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I believe that pic was of a pod prototype. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: shroomer
Date Posted: 04 Aug 2014 at 8:39pm
When the wife's not available, I use this low tech setup which utilizes a noodle on the jack tower and a clamp on the tailgate. Gets me pretty darn close. Cheap too. And no interference with any electronics.  ------------- Larry and Debbie w/Rosie the mutt. Old: '13 177, '06 Silverado V6 New: '15 Whitehawk 20MRB '14 Silverado V8 |
Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 04 Aug 2014 at 10:50pm
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That really is a great use of a stiff noodle. I've seen the two balls on a pole apparatus, but the stiff pink noodle looks just as effective! Nicely done! fred ------------- 2014 RPod 178 => https://goo.gl/CV446f - MyMods and Buying Habits 2008 4Runner Limited 4.0-liter V6 Yes, those are wild ponies dining on grass while dumping tanks! |
Posted By: gymrat
Date Posted: 21 Sep 2015 at 3:17pm
We use a wireless system. I'm backing up and my wife is giving me hand signals. 
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Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 21 Sep 2015 at 8:38pm
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Welcome. Good entrance! ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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