Back up camera mounting location decision

Machado7 · 10-18-2007, 04:05 PM

NEW EDIT- PICcs added: I have bought a great BU Camera and monitor. I have spent about a week testing locations of the camera. While mounting in the center of the hitch is good, I cant see the top of the ball. My favorite location is high on the tail gate, which provides a view of ball, blind spots, and boat being hauled- great. However, I don't know how to mount the camera and get a good cosmetic result. I suspect mounting in the tailgate, below the tailgate handle -where the metal is angled downwards,would work well- but Im afraid to drill the tailgate (too chicken).

Has anyone done this? Has anyone tried other locations in the tailgate? Anyone tried other mounting locations above the license plate or hitch? Any pics of mounts and resulting view?

clandoug · 10-18-2007, 04:51 PM

I'm thinking of getting a BU camera myself. Which one did you get and why?

Machado7 · 10-18-2007, 05:09 PM

Check out my 2 posts at the bottom of this thread.
Backup camera

Let me know if you still have questions. Total price was 150$ shipped. VERY nice set up.

yamaguy88 · 10-19-2007, 05:38 PM

If the cam is the type where u have to drill a hole and stick it in the hole then you should fab up a bracket that u can bolt on the side of your hitch mount under the bumper, if its a flat cam with a swivel bracket then doublesided sticky tape it to the back side of your lic plate cover and swivel your cam to the front side of your lic plate...

Machado7 · 10-22-2007, 06:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by yamaguy88

If the cam is the type where u have to drill a hole and stick it in the hole then you should fab up a bracket that u can bolt on the side of your hitch mount under the bumper, if its a flat cam with a swivel bracket then doublesided sticky tape it to the back side of your lic plate cover and swivel your cam to the front side of your lic plate...

Its the drill a hole type. Ive got it just off center just above the hitch and below the bumper. Good location, but not great. Cant see the load/ boat. Can see obstructions pretty well, but just off center L causes a little blind spot to the R. I can take pics if needed. I think you get the idea.

Seerex · 10-22-2007, 06:42 PM

One of the guys at work put his back up cam in the tailgate, its looked very natural and it had to be pointed out to even see it. It is a great view of vehicles and tow items.

Machado7 · 10-22-2007, 07:06 PM

Did he go into the black plastic? Any pics? (Didnt find those w/ a search.)

Im considering the metal just below the black. It is slighlty angled (downward) and should really give a great view. Crazy?

Machado7 · 11-01-2007, 04:54 PM

OK- I am very close to drilling the tail gate. I have compared every other location and the gate seems to provide a GREAT view of the hitch, L and R blind spots, and the payload (boat, etc).
Called by fav bodyshop and they will drill the gate for 18$.

Am I crazy to be so hessitant to drill the gate? I love my Titan and dont want to mare it if something doesnt work out. (Ive tried to rule out all possible complications- i.e. camera too big, etc).

Machado7 · 11-11-2007, 07:09 PM

Camera is in and view is perfect- Wider than the truck just 2 feet back while able to see ball on hitch and payload when towing. Ill send install / drilling steps later if interested.

BuckyBadger · 11-12-2007, 03:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Machado7

Camera is in and view is perfect- Wider than the truck just 2 feet back while able to see ball on hitch and payload when towing. Ill send install / drilling steps later if interested.

Thanks..pleas do..and take pics of the monitor install.

fdlock890 · 11-12-2007, 06:37 PM

This was great, thanks. I am going to install a BU camera, and I have the exact same questions, and concerns. Any and all info is helpful. Thanks

pi3yeargrad · 11-12-2007, 07:18 PM

Awesome BACK-UP CAM

Here ya go!

Machado7 · 11-13-2007, 08:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pi3yeargrad

Awesome BACK-UP CAM

Here ya go!

I liked the higher mounting position w/ a downward angle better than this location. Your location is a much easier install, however.

Great pics. Mine are on the way (Thursday likely-11-15-07).

Machado7 · 11-13-2007, 08:50 PM

First drill the outer gate (or pay 18$ like I did) for the camera. USE CAUTION- tape and a smaller saw than expected where the words of wisdom from the body shop who did the outer hole for me.
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/e...g?t=1195015152

Drill then cut out the back side of the tailgate where the camera is wanted.
http://s228.photobucket.com/albums/e...t=6149d588.jpg
http://s228.photobucket.com/albums/e...t=de97691d.jpg
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/e...o/c47fb3fd.jpg

Now drill a second smaller hole off to the side for the wires to double back thru.
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/e...o/dea270d0.jpg
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/e...o/bdd6c6f3.jpg

Here is the final view: you can just see the top of the trailer hitch ball.
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/e...o/723eadf0.jpg

More later.