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CD · 11-12-2008, 11:40 AM

I bought a backup camera from Costco for about $80. I use a HD magnet to hold it on the hitch ahead of the ball. The few times I used it, I backed up to the ball, got out and lowered the hitch onto the ball. I also have set it on the wheel well of my equipment trailer to back it into the barn which requires backing to right. I can see where the trailer is going even when I can't tell where it's going in the mirrors.

tinkerreknit · 11-28-2008, 11:46 AM

I have my camera mounted and working now. I am posting some additional information hoping it will help someone. It is working just fine even though it is constructed a little on the cheap side. The picture clarity is very nice, but I thought the camera mount system could have been better-looking. It comes with tapered washer that allow the camera to be aimed vertically at your target. The camera housing is black, the washers are gray, and the bolts are shiney steel. It makes it stand out and maybe more prone to theft or vandalism. So..I had to make my own bracket that bolts to the license plate and raises the camera up about 2". I believe that small difference allows me to better judge distance when hitching up. I made a bracket for the display as well, instead of the supplied windshield suction mount. I had read a review stating that the suction cup didn't hold, and I found it didn't also. I don't like things stuck on the windshield anyway. I mounted it to my visor bracket right beside and above my rear-view mirror. The wireless sending unit is wired to my back-up lights so when I use "reverse" it sends the video signal to the camera. The sending unit (IMO) should be shielded from weather because of the type of connections used on it. I had to put it way up over my PU taillight right under the stake pocket cover. It would be better suited to a SUV, where it could go inside the door. The reception is fine.

bcassel · 01-03-2009, 07:33 PM

Yep, I made one from a licence plate frame model, VR3 I think. I cut it down, mounted it on the end of a Radio Shack project box with a small 12V gel battery from an alarm system.

Now I have a small box that I can hang on the back of my truck to hitch up, place off to the side when I want to pull the trailer up on blocks, put on the back of the trailer when I have to back in alone.

Some added use came in the other day when I needed to show a client a wet spot under his house and he didn't want to crawl in and see for himself. I took in the camera/box and had the little monitor hooked to one of the battery jumper boxes. Worked great.