I wanted to provide some info & experience for those looking at various backup and rearview camera options.


You can probably buy the components, assemble and install your own system for a lot less. You simply need a camera and an LCD display at the very least. But there are many things to consider including but not limited to type of camera, angle of camera, night vision, LCD size, LCD mounting location, LCD capability to handle 2 or more cameras, etc. If you buy components, you can probably build a system for about $350, or less if you already have an overhead LCD system in your vehicle.


The most important priority for me was the appearance of the addon, I wanted it to look as a factory option. Other than tapping a camera into an existing overhead LCD display, this one looked the best. Other LCD displays were integrated into a rear view mirror, some where windshield mount with tape/glue, some were pedestal or dash mount. It's one hefty premium to pay for Vizualogic's Hindsight system, but you have to make up your own mind what you want in the end.


I purchased the unit from an online vendor, which was delivered in 3 days via UPS ground. Including shipping, the price $699.


MANUFACTURER - Vizualogic (http://www.vizualogic.com/hindsight/key_features.html)


THINGS YOU SHOULD BE AWARE OF UP FRONT


The Vizualogic website is somewhat outdated, so if you review the manuals and installation instructions, they're not exactly accurate. Some of the components in the box don't match the online manuals or installation instructions, but it's workable.


The quality of Vizualogic Customer Support is unknown at this point, they have not responded to 3 questions sent via email 3 days ago. Unsure why.


The Hindsight package I purchased for a 2004 Silverado is listed as
GM Hitch Bracket Camera - Beige Part number 90-6000-016 Unfortunately, the cable for the Camera will barely reach the cab on my shortbed truck. If you have a longbed, this kit will not work without an extension cable. The cable is a 4-din, not an easy extension to find. This was one of my questions to the manufacturer, who has not yet replied.


Check your hitch. If your hitch has a welded metal plate in it, the camera cannot be installed in that location. You can move the camera off to the side, install under the bumper with angle washers, and still have a good view. Here's a picture of the LCD component after installation. Step by step info will follow.


http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/A93_13.jpg

The kit includes a camera and cable, but this is only workable for a shortbed truck. Until I hear back from the manufacturer on the whereabouts of an extension, longbed owners would not be able to use the kit as I received it.


Other items in the kit included a remote with dash clip, 3m tape to attach the dash clip, batteries for the remote, the LCD panel, the LCD panel housing, camera with cable, hitch mounting bracket, an A/V controller capable of taking 2 video inputs via a 4 din connector, power harness for the A/V module, camera angle spacers, installation manual and an owners operation manual.





http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/491_1.jpg

First I removed the sunvisor clip, the one nearest the rear view mirror, this allowed me to pull down gently/easy on the headliner where it meets the windshield.


I installed the LCD data cable first by gently pulling back on the drivers side pillar cover. This gave me barely enough room to push the cable up into the headliner and over to where I could gently pull down on the headliner. It also gave me the access to push the other end down into and beside the dash.





http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/476_4.jpg

Fed cable along here and to the backseat of my extended cab to the A/V controller.


http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/C43_6.jpgEdited by: Keith

The A/V controller is shown here. You need to make all your connections to this box first temporarily so you can test things.


The next step was to run the camera cable outside the truck so I could test the different angle washers. In my case, I could NOT mount the camera to the hitch because of the weld plate. I used a jumper box to supply temp power for testing.





http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/42D_10.jpg

The plate found in my factory '04 hitch has a welded plate, this did not allow for the camera to mount as advertised.


http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/B1C_9.jpg





This is what it would look like if you don't have this plate welded into your hitch.


http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/25C_!gmhitch.gif





This is the point where you need to play with the installation area under the bumper. You might need to adapt the final location, as well as the angle washers. This part will take some time experimenting, be patient. If you have temporarily provided power to the A/V controller, you can test the angle washers.


http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/9FA_8.jpg


Edited by: Keith

I finally decided on a location left of the trailer wiring harness, and used large washers with screws to mount the assembly. I also used 2 angle washers to put a slight angle on the camera so I would be able to pick up a trailer ball in the view.


http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/1CB_12a.jpg


You can also see in the pict above where the LCD is simply hanging from the headliner at the windshield. I was able to view the LCD from behind the truck, and experiment with the angle ring(s). Angle ring can be seen in pict below. There also 2 fixing rings to help keep the camera tight.


Here is the upclose view from the underside of the bumper. My bumper had space for me to use the washers and screws.


http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/Z2Z_16.jpg


Edited by: Keith

In the final steps, you'll need to mount the AV Controller. In my installation, used a velcro strip which holds it to the carpet and will allow me to uninstall the system when I finally sell the truck. It also will allow me to add a second camera, perhaps something up front, or another angle in the rear of the truck.


Other items to note: There are 2 ways to wire the camera, a schematic can be seen here (http://www.vizualogic.com/customer_service/manuals/hindsight/hindsight_install_diagram.pdf). The option I chose was to only have the camera activated when I put the truck in reverse. Right now power is supplied via a blade connector to the dash fuse block, ignition switch. But some sort of harness connected to the MBEC will be the permanent fix. Another wire runs from the A/V controller to the reverse lights, this is what activates the camera in reverse only. You can hardwire it, but the constant view while driving down the road is a bit hypnotic if not obnoxious.


I ran the cables through the back of the cab where I found a vent with flaps. Probably not the ideal location, but it was easy and close to where I mounted the A/V Controller.


I also bought some plastic wire loom and ran the wires under the truck next to factory loom using wireties to hold it all together nice and neat. I am not a mechanic by trade. Between reading and researching, check and double checking, running back to the computer to read another thread or print out a schematic, a pack of cigarettes worth of breaks, telephone calls and other interruptions, the entire project start to finish took me 8 hours total time. Someone familiar with installing accessories in a vehicle can probably do this project in 3 hours or less. Just a guess on my part.


My truck is a 2500HD Extended Cab, Shortbed. It's worth noting again, the camera cable that comes with this kit is NOT long enough to run into the cab on a longbed. And furthermore, it's BARELY enough length to run into my Extended Cab to where I mounted the AV Controller. Ideally, the manufacturer should include a longer cable, or extension so you can mount the AV controller either under the dash, or under the front seat area. This was a very frustrating thing for me. You can imagine the excitement of receiving the product kit and level of eagerness to get it all installed. Then you can also imagine the disappointment when you figure out the cable might not make it into the cab. The power cables were also too short, however getting additional power cable is not hard.


I think the company has come close to the optimum option for my truck, but they've missed the mark on a few things which could easily be improved. It's 2004, the website info needs to be accurate and updated regularly. This isn't rocket science, it's a communication issue between IT staff, and Sales & Marketing. The camera cable should be 10' longer, or include a 10' extension in the box. The hitchcam assembly should include contingency instructions, i.e., bolts and washers for those of us who have factory hitches with the welded plate.


The ideal price for this system would be $499 or less at full retail. But that's just my opinion.


Finally, I've only been registered on this site for about 2 weeks, since the day after I bought my truck, I found it via Google search. I've learned so much in that short time, and simply wanted to contribute in return for the advice so many people have provided. My sincere thanks, I hope readers find this info helpful.


Here are some more links of interest, including video and/or backup sensor technology offerings:


AsianWolf Auto Electronics (http://www.asianwolf.com/category.html?UCIDs=1285067)
Backup-Sensor (http://www.backup-sensor.com)
<A href="http://www.crimestopper.com" target="_blank">Crim

Final pict of LCD in cab. The angle here is deceiving, the LCD unit is mounted right next to the rearview mirror, so it's not really in my direct field of vision while driving.


http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/1B6_17.jpg

Here is a great thread (http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=12236&amp;TPN=1)with links to power requirements. Many thanks to those who contributed the information, it was invaluable.


http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=12236&amp;TPN=1

Good work!http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Thumbs Up.gif

I've been wanting something so I could see in the blind spot behind the trailer.This would work IF the cables were longer...

Not sure where you are located but in Texas there are places called AllTex that would have the exact cable you are looking for. Huge electronic geek stores.

Fingers, you could very easily add a second camera to your installation and connect it to the 2nd input on the controller. Using the remote control that comes with the unit, you would simply press a button to toggle. One camera would be used to backup the truck so you can get to the hitch. Press the button again and it would flip to the camera you had mounted on the trailer. If it's a boat trailer, forget about it, the camera isn't submersible. You'd need to purchase a waterproof camera for the boat trailer, which is something I plan to do in the spring. The LCD panel (and the remote control) has a button on it to switch between cameras, so you could toggle between the hitch view, and boat trailer view.

TEXMudder, hopefully the manufacturer has one already. Since they advertise the product kit for "1999 - 2004 GM Full Size Pickups", it should be included at no extra charge. Will post when they reply, if they reply.

(Vizualogic never replied about a camera cable extension, perhaps Radio Shack or other similar places may carry them.)

Keith,


Nice work, good detail on the how to.


Dennis

Great thread!


I like where your LCD screen is mounted. Hope no one decides they need the camera more than you and 'remove' it :(


Also I have been in places where the bumoer dragged in the dirt and bent my trailer plug. Watch for this!

Follow up comments:


After having this system installed for about a week, I'm very satisfied. To reiterate the most important part for readers doing research, the manufacturer has never responded to the questions regarding the length of the camera cable. If you have a long bed, you'll need to find or make an extension cable.


In normal use, the camera and LCD only come on when the truck is in reverse. The LCD can be manually activated while driving by either using the remote, or the on/off switch, then toggled to another camera if you've installed one, or activated to record video via the outputs on the a/v controller.


The night vision capability is acceptable while in reverse, which provides enough lighting for the camera to display a fairly good field of vision behind the vehicle. No need to add additional lighting or a lower LUX camera. That's it for now, can't think of anything else worth noting, it's definitely a cool and useful addition to my truck.

Nice How-To Keith! Thanks!

Quick question though, what made you decide
to go with the Vizualogic system over some of
the other brands? Was it the semi-integrated
display housing? Does it impair the forward
field of view much? (can't tell from the
picture taken outside the door)

How close is the color matching of the display housing
to your interior color?

Also, do you have a forward looking picture from
inside the cab? Like from the rear seat.

Thanks!

T.Edited by: Terry

Thanks Terry.


You can buy most if not all the parts on the internet for about $350. However, my main priority was how well it looked in the cab, and the ability to add a 2nd camera. In otherwords, I probably went overboard with this little project, could have done it for half the cost and simply lived with an LCD mounted to the windshield via glue or tape, and 1 camera.


The Asianwolf.com link above was my 2nd choice. They have a few slick systems ($399 up to $1500), even a 3 camera system with relays activating cameras for your side view angles when flipping on your turn signals. They're all windshield mount units.


The integrated unit doesn't impair my forward vision, however I'm only 5' 9". You could simply mount the unit on the passenger side of the rear-view mirror as an alternative location.


The color matches my interior perfectly, looks like a factory install. I ordered the tan color to match my headliner.


I don't have a shot from the front of the truck, or the back seat, that's something I'll try to remember to do tomorrow for you though.

Terry, I revisited this link looking for some of my original info. I just noticed your info about backup lights was a big help to me recently with another project (cargo lights). I'll get that pict for you from the back seat so you can see where the LCD is mounted in the cab.


If I had to do it all over again, I'd probably purchase a small 3.5" color LCD and mount it down where the pillar meets the dash with a simple bracket. The premium price I paid for appearance (the LCD housing and ceiling mount) was almost double ($700 vs $350) what you could buy the parts for and simply put it together yourself.

I chose to mount it to the left of the rear view mirror, however it can be mounted to the other side if you sit tall in the seat. I never tried, but I would imagine this unit could also be mounted in the rear at the back window headliner so driver could view it from mirror, or while turned around.


The camera has the ability to provide a mirror image, or standard image depending on what view you want (reverse image, or regular image).


Hope this helps.


http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/Keith/2004-10-24_064629_IMG_0769.JPG





http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/Keith/2004-10-24_064601_IMG_0771.JPG





http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/Keith/2004-10-24_064536_IMG_0770.JPG

I chose to mount it to the left of the rear view mirror, however it can be mounted to the other side if you sit tall in the seat. I never tried, but I would imagine this unit could also be mounted in the rear at the back window headliner so driver could view it from mirror, or while turned around.
The camera has the ability to provide a mirror image, or standard image depending on what view you want (reverse image, or regular image)


Thanks for the info. I think I've convinced myself
to do like you said previously & "roll my own". I'm
going to use this monitor (http://qualitymobilevideo.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=LCD35) along with a "plate cam"
(license plate frame mounted camera) to complete
my own system. I'll take some pictures & post
them when it's all completed....

Thanks again,

T.

Does the electronics have the ability to reverse the camera display?


in other words, does it display so left is left and right is right.http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/smiley17.gif


When backing in with a 5th wheel, you can't see a thing behind you so these would be very helpful if the orientation is correct

Correct, mirror image or reverse image camera means you can switch it around to display as a rear view mirror, or direct. Left is left, or Left becomes right in the display. Apparently not all systems have this ability.

I have a question. Could you simply add an input to the rear camera on one of these (and still be able to use it as a dvd player)? Then all you would have to do would be to flip down the visor...


http://www.jpcustoms.com/store/customer/home.php?cat=330 (http://www.jpcustoms.com/store/customer/home.php?cat=330)

Yes, but it depends on the device/visor screen. From what I see there, the visor displays on that page don't mention multiple device inputs (i.e., Camera &amp; DVD player). Some handle more than 1 input device, and they'll list it as a feature. Vizualogic's website does mention it. http://www.vizualogic.com/sunvisors/key_features.html


You can use any display you like provided you add an A/V controller to handle multiple inputs. The controller would take input from multiple sources (DVD Player, Rear View Camera, Front Camera or other, etc.), and switch output to the LCD display whether it be console mount, visor mount, etc. Imagine having 1 computer screen and then 2 computers attached to it through a switch box, same principle but the a/v controller handles the switching.


The Vizual Logic Hindsight system comes with this controller and toggles from a button on the screen (from rear view camera to another video source, back and forth). And it would appear the PerfectMatch does as well, but check with JP Customs to be sure.


http://www.vizualogic.com/sunvisors/key_features.html

Ok, here's some -initial- pictures of my
Do It Yourself (http://207.53.239.181/~terry/truck/Backup-System/) rear camera system.

It's not "done" yet, but it's gettin' there.
I think it'll look fairly decent....

T.

Terry, that is a sweet setup and installation, very nice. I like where you finally decided to fit the LCD panel, looks completely integrated as OEM. Keep us posted on progress and final picts.


If you get a chance, would be nice to post where the materials came from as well and a roundabout budget. I'm guessing you'll come in significantly less than Vizualogic's package.

nice how to, will use it for my installhttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/smiley32.gif

Very nice Terry. I am going to have to copy you if that is ok. Killer FACTORY look.

Keep us posted on progress and final picts.
If you get a chance, would be nice to post where the materials came from as well and a roundabout budget. I'm guessing you'll come in significantly less than Vizualogic's package.

I'm not sure it's "significantly less" cost than
the Visualogic system, but it is somewhat less.
The total I spent came to about $450. I did not
use a video switcher, but you could easily add one.
I think a video switcher comes with the Visualogic
system though...

The LCD monitor came from:
http://qualitymobilevideo.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen= PROD&Product_Code=LCD35
and cost ~$200

I used a chrome Crimestopper "top" PlateCam that I
ordered from AudioOutfitter.com for ~$220.
http://www.audiooutfitter.com/store/SV5500PCBC.html

I also added a manual on/off pushbutton microswitch
to trigger a relay so I could turn the system on/off
at-will.

So, my setup is relay operated and triggered by the reverse
light circuit or the manual switch(with a diode).

I'll try to get some "finished" pics soon. The
monitor mounting came out "ok", but doesn't look
as professional as I would have liked....

hth,

T.

Terry, I think you're idea of mounting the LCD in the dash is excellent. By the way, I just saw my unit on sale via eBay for $599, so you're still $150 ahead than the VL unit. C'est la vie. It does come with an A/V controller, but I haven't hooked up a 2nd camera yet. Eventually I plan to use a waterproof camera on my boat trailer as camera #2. Spring project.

I'm probably going to go with this set-up next week -

Regular back-up camera -

http://www.vizualogic.com/hindsight/images/gmhitch_camera.jpg

Hitch camera -

http://www.vizualogic.com/hindsight/images/c1000_camera.jpg

Will just need to angle it enough to see the hitch.

They will feed signal to a Kenwood in-dash system -

http://www.kenwoodusa.com/content/product/image/large/im-ddx-7015-lrg-2004-kusa.jpg

I'll post all of the details after the system is installed next week.

Saw these custom installs last week at SoCal Super Trucks and wanted to share this - thought it was quite cool. He said his buddy custom fitted the fiberglass to make it work.

That's a really nice installation...good job!

I installed a rear view camera system on my truck/5th wheel last year. It really makes towing a lot more comfortable. Plus, it's stopped my wife from screaming at me since I no longer use the "Crazy Ivan" maneuver to see if there's anybody behind me.

Installation photos here http://www.picturetrail.com/gallery/view?p=999&gid=3134059&uid=1417387