Swapping from power folding to camper mirrors? [Archive] - Diesel Place : Chevrolet and GMC Diesel Truck Forums

: Swapping from power folding to camper mirrors?


tbyrne
03-29-2005, 01:46 PM
First, I used the search button but didn't find the details that I'm looking for. I've read some threads where people have gone from the power folding mirrors to the camper style. What is required for that? I checked with the GM warehouse that I deal with and was told that they don't have anything that will be a replacement after the truck is built (I know it can be done). He said I could purchase the mirrors but there is some wiring that is needed to be done and new switches. What is really required to do the swap?

Thanks!

DavesDmax
03-29-2005, 03:47 PM
Unless there have been some major changes from the 04's to 05, you should be able to put the power extending mirrors on and have the dealer reflash the BCM to recognize the camping mirrors.

If you really going to put towing mirrors on, I would recommend the TTT mirrors from powervision. There are far better than the OEM type, which I have on my truck.

Check on the Accessories section and do an advanced search on mirrors and TTT. I think you'll find some opinions on the subject.

Max Owner
03-29-2005, 07:10 PM
People seem to like the Shaffenacker (sp?) TTT mirrors.

WAskier
03-29-2005, 11:17 PM
I don't tow but the TTT mirrors are 1000000X Better than the factory camper mirrors. give or take a couple decimals ;)

ski1
03-30-2005, 02:03 AM
TTTs are great, they are schefenacker though, not powervision.

tbyrne
03-30-2005, 02:57 PM
I just took a look at the Powervision and Sshefenacker. The Schefenacker has some cool features but I like the looks of the Powerversion better. Those look factory and don't stand out as much. Maybe if I saw a picture of the Schefenacker painted red on a truck...

I guess this part doesn't matter as much but power would be good too.

DavesDmax
03-30-2005, 03:34 PM
Sorry about getting the wrong manufacturer. I ordered my truck with the towing mirrors and stopped looking at options for replacement when I went the new route.

Just get what works for you. My OEM towing mirrors are adequate but if I have to replace them, I will probably go with aftermarket.

tbyrne
03-30-2005, 03:41 PM
No problem at all! I want something that is functional so I can see the end of my trailer but I also want them to look good. I got pulled over for speeding a few years ago (67 in a 55 zone) while towing in the left lane. Saw a blue glow on the barrier so I moved over. He moved over too. I moved over again. He followed. Buddy said "I think he wants you". Did the license and registration thing and then he asks "why didn't you pull over when you saw my lights". I tell him that I couldn't see his lights because I pretty much only see trailer when I look in the mirrors. I got "the speech" from there :)

JJs DuMax
04-03-2005, 10:15 AM
I have the OEM extendable RV mirrors on my truck. I believe they would work fine for a shorter trailer, say 32' and less, but I can't see behind my 40' 5ver at all. I'm looking at the TTT's, though they appear kind of bulky and not very aerodynamic. There is also another brand that looks more like the Ford mirrors with clearance markers, turn signals, and spot mirrors that I like to. Still doing research. :confused:

The mirrors on my truck do not have a spot mirror, I added a couple of them which helps with the blind spots. If you tow a long rig I would definitely consider aftermarket mirrors. The Power Vision's look exactly like the OEM's. Good discussion. JJ :)

Max Owner
04-03-2005, 05:29 PM
I sat in a Super Duty, onetime. Didn't like the field of view of their convex mirror. Seemed to be limited....

1st Diesel
04-09-2005, 03:00 PM
I did the swap and it's a piece of cake. Everything bolts up and plugs in the same. However, when I took my truck in to my local dealer (today) to get my mirrors re-programed they couldn't do it? I had pwr folding, heated, turn signal, curb view assist and traded someone for OEM pwr extending camper/towing mirrors. I was told by many here that it was a simple task to re-program. Is my dealer just not smart or is there something else I should know (or they should know)?
The tow mirrors came off an '04 Silverado, mine is an '03.
Any thoughts...

daurand
06-06-2005, 03:53 PM
My wife's 1997 D*dge had standard mirrors, so I bought CIPA clip on mirrors at the local 'mart. They would fold the mirrors back over 60 mph (usually OK, because that is as fast as the truck would pull the trailer:eek: btw only a 5.2L). Therefore, I bought McKesh strap ons. What a great upgrade!! Upgraded to 2003 GMC D/A CC LB:D , but that had standard (non-tow) mirrors, but McKesh worked just as well on there. I have clipped a tree or two:mad: , and my wife REALLY wacked one:badidea: . Finally bought a 2005 GMC D/A CC SB (wife thought LB was too hard to park at work). This one came with - Mirrors, outside rearview, power, heated, camper-style, includes power extending arms and turn signal in glass (DPF). BUT - they do not extend as far as the McKesh do.:( I can't see behind my 30ft trailer, just down the sides. I feel stupid not using my power extending mirrors, but........

:help2: Do the TTT or other replacement mirrors extend more than the OEM camper style? As far as the McKesh? I really should measure how far out I have the McKesh set. I have even thought about moving them our farther!!

stand up dave
07-26-2005, 12:26 PM
I did the swap and it's a piece of cake. Everything bolts up and plugs in the same. However, when I took my truck in to my local dealer (today) to get my mirrors re-programed they couldn't do it? I had pwr folding, heated, turn signal, curb view assist and traded someone for OEM pwr extending camper/towing mirrors. I was told by many here that it was a simple task to re-program. Is my dealer just not smart or is there something else I should know (or they should know)?
The tow mirrors came off an '04 Silverado, mine is an '03.
Any thoughts...

I am getting ready to trade mirrors with a friend and wondering if you figured out what you need the dealer to do???

1st Diesel
07-26-2005, 01:03 PM
No, I haven't been back to the dealer. The mirrors work fine except for the retract feature. I just manually push them back in after towing. All other functions work as advertised. I will eventually get it back in and programed though...

Dave

ski1
07-28-2005, 12:19 AM
:help2: Do the TTT or other replacement mirrors extend more than the OEM camper style? As far as the McKesh? I really should measure how far out I have the McKesh set. I have even thought about moving them our farther!!

yes, they can. the TTT mirrors do extend further than the power camper mirrors, mny here have replaced their camper mirrors with the TTTs. i cant say enough about them, i can see behind any trailer and dont have to worry about a strap on or bolt on mirror vibrating, slipping off or scratching anything. i also like the placement of the convex mirrors and the turn signals/running lights.

PAPA - H
07-28-2005, 01:20 AM
I purchased and installed the Schefenacker mirrors on my 05 2500HD. My wife calls them my monster mirrors. They are great. I can see for ever. Nothing like beeing able to see clear down the side of my 5th wheel, and the spot mirror, no more blind spots.

aketay
07-28-2005, 01:37 AM
Any dealer with a TECHII can change your DL3 (power folding) to DPF (power extending). You only lose the memory capability and the tilt down function in reverse. When they did it for my Powervisions, the extend feature is backwards.