Give Your RV Eyes in the Back of Its Head

Do you wonder how those guys back their RVs,There are several options for displays including a CRT
whether motorhome or trailer, in to that perfect spottube screen, standalone LCD flat screen,
everyone else says can't be done? Chances are theyvisor-mounted display, and rear-view mirror
either a retired trucker or they have a backupintegration for tow vehicles. The most common is
camera. While there is no substitute for experience, athe standalone display since it is the easiest to install.
backup camera can help you look like theIt has a pedestal that uses Velcro to attach the base
campground hero. Well, not exactly, but it is probablyto the dash. This is very convenient but some RVs
one of the cooler mods you can do to your RV, andand/or tow vehicles may not have room for the
is sure to arouse interest with those in awe of yourstandalone. In this case, the next best option is the
backing skills.rear-view mirror display. While a little harder to install,
Aside from assisting you with backing, they can alsothis option for tow vehicles works well since it is
help if you tow a car behind your motorhome or anatural to look in your rear-view mirror when backing
boat behind your 5th wheel. You will be able to see ifup.
something is wrong with your towing setup beforeClass A and class C motorhomes handle the backup
someone pulls up next to you waving frantically andcamera installation a little differently. Most have an
pointing to the back of your RV. And if your travelingoption from the factory with a display integrated in
in a caravan, you can keep tabs on the group behindto the dash. This would the recommended way to
if your leading the pack.go if you are ordering new. If not, components can
There are several features you should be aware ofbe sourced to provide a clean and straightforward
when selecting a backup camera. Most importantly, ifinstall. The visor-mount display can be used in both
you will be driving and/or backing up at night, makeclass A and class C motorhomes as an alternative but
sure the camera you choose has night vision. Thistends to not be as intuitive to look at when backing.
means that the camera has infrared lightingConnecting the camera to the display is either done
assistance, typically in the form of LEDs surroundingby a special video cable or through a wireless
the lens of the camera, allowing night time vision. Alsoconnection. If you go wireless, be sure the video
ensure the camera is waterproof. Hopefully you willsignal transmitter has a range of at least 100 feet,
always have fair weather during your travels but ineven if your trailer is only 30 feet long. A strong
the event of rain, you don't want to ruin yourtransmitter will ensure you get a clear picture with no
camera by getting water in the internals.interference since the signal will have to travel
Another consideration is whether you want a color orthrough and around the trailer to the tow vehicle
black and white capable camera. Color will provide areceiver. This can be as far as 60 feet in some
more realistic image and since most backup camerascases.
have some distortion due to their wide angle lenses,Tip: Practice in an open lot, backing up in to an empty
the more realism the better. Mounting options includeparking space before trying to back in to a campsite.
everything from an integrated housing to a simpleThis will give you some idea of your rig reacts to
bracket screwed to the back of your RV to a licensesmall movements when using you camera. Also, your
plate bracket mount. Your choice will depend on howcamera may require some adjustments to ensure
"clean" you want the install to look and what youyou get the best view of the area behind you.
want to observe behind you.