Backup Camera Recommendations

Hi all! I've searched the forums for info on backup cameras but didn't find anything specific so I had a couple of questions....

While I'm working on building out my cargo van, I have been driving it around town to get used to driving in traffic, blind spots, parking, backing, etc. I know "practice, practice, practice" is important to get used to the size, turning radius, and using the mirrors (I have large tow mirrors with secondary angled mirrors built in which have been a lifesaver). With that being said, I am looking into installing a backup camera for added security and peace of mind. 

Question 1 - Do you have any camera (type or brand) that you recommend (or don't recommend)? A lot of the ones I've researched have a piece that attached to the top of the license plate with the camera in it; however, I have an E150 so my license plate is not centered on the vehicle. I'm thinking the ones that attach to the license plate would not work for me?? I've also seen one made built into the third brake light lens cover and some look like they would attach to the center of the bumper.

Question 2 - Any advice on installing it? I've read some tapped into their reverse lights wire, some tapped into their running lights so the camera could be turned on at any time, and others wired it to a source that worked all the time.

I had contemplated installing a system with dual cameras (front and back) wired in a way that would allow me to turn on the cameras at any given time if I felt the need to see around the van when parked. Again, this is just something I'm tossing around in my mind.

As always....thanks for all your help! 

I use 5 backup cameras in my cube van, providing me with a 360 degree view around the vehicle. There are 2 rear cameras so that I can have a backup cam in use while driving, the other 4 being in my living quarters.

Since I urban dwell, stealth is more important to me and I don't have any windows to see in or out of, the cameras are my eyes to the outside world.

I "hid" 3 of the cameras in the light lenses, and I made a custom bracket for the 2 rear cams.

Be aware that some of the cheep backup cameras won't work on a full size van . Watch " into the mystery 13 " videos for more info .

My van came with both front and rear cameras that are viewed in the rear view mirror and work rather well. The one in the rear is mounted above the doors and is fed in through the brake light. I do not know the brand of this particular camera only that it has been a great asset in seeing what is around me. (Nissan NV 2500 HD)

ahh_me2 said:

I use 5 backup cameras in my cube van, providing me with a 360 degree view around the vehicle. There are 2 rear cameras so that I can have a backup cam in use while driving, the other 4 being in my living quarters.

Since I urban dwell, stealth is more important to me and I don't have any windows to see in or out of, the cameras are my eyes to the outside world.

I "hid" 3 of the cameras in the light lenses, and I made a custom bracket for the 2 rear cams.

Click to expand...

 
Nice Job!

This video may give you some ideas:

lisamac said:

While I'm working on building out my cargo van, I have been driving it around town to get used to driving in traffic, blind spots, parking, backing, etc. I know "practice, practice, practice" is important to get used to the size, turning radius, and using the mirrors (I have large tow mirrors with secondary angled mirrors built in which have been a lifesaver). With that being said, I am looking into installing a backup camera for added security and peace of mind. 

Click to expand...

Im no help with the camera but wanted to comment on this. I have an F350 CC 8ft bed 156" wheelbase. it takes some practice backing up. I love the tow mirrors and the angled mirrors allow me to watch my wheel when turning ( my work parking lot is tight when one shift leaves as Im coming in). Ive backed up 26' box trucks so I have a bit experience backing up, but practice makes itneasier. I also have a reese triball with hook poking out the back (as if I wasnt long enough already) so Its hard for me to just fit into any ol parking spot. I dont have cameras but my truck has the beeping sensors. Good luck finding a backup camera.

Mine is from Rosco Vision Systems. The camera is mounted on the edge of the roof and aimed mostly downward so I can see how close I'm getting to things when I back up or parallel park. It has a night vision mode, too. I have no complaints with it.

I have this in the cabin area of my step van
Monitor https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ZFFREWC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
cameras (4) https://www.amazon.com/Installation...coding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=HTDZNAMSZ021Y5YBDTAT

On the dash I have an older version, still the 7" monitor that has 2 IR hooded cameras like these to cover my rear blind spots
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01J0RS8UM?psc=1

So far my observations are
1. the IR hooded cameras work better in more varied lighting conditions
2. the paint quality on all the outside metal parts sucks....and rust starts soon.
3. I like the way the button cameras are less visible and are plastic (noncorrosive)
4.The Hooded cameras are a bit large and ugly, but much more adjustable and durable than the flimsy tin brackets for the button style.

Nice neat install Ahh_me2 !

lisamac,
  I've also done quite a bit of research with disappointing results.  I didn't want any new screens in my driving area and I've got a 2012 gmc savana 2500 so I need backup help sometimes../

I searched high and low for something that will work with wifi to a smartphone or tablet. (I already have both)  Most units you search for are either analog (lower quality image) or just too darn expensive.  I got frustrated and tried the home security option.  I found a Reolink Argus that hopefully will work.  For me I will have it on magnetic base and on rear of van for backup camera.  But it also can be moved to other locations.  It does run on I believe rechargeable lithium batteries and can save images to your phone, tablet, or sd card.  I'll report back when it comes in and I give it a try.  It's $99 from amazon.

gapper2

Great questions before buying! I've found in all of these forums that a lot of people have opinions Including myself. 

That is why I rely on Amazon reviews of the RV rearview cameras. Easier to trust hundreds of reviewers instead of just a few on a forum. 

Hope that helps!

thread posts are 3 yrs old -
many things have changed - better cams available

Groovy2 recommended this one, which I just ordered: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07L1N4W4Y/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Here is the thread. https://vanlivingforum.com/showthread.php?tid=37119

gapper2 said:

lisamac,
  I've also done quite a bit of research with disappointing results.  I didn't want any new screens in my driving area and I've got a 2012 gmc savana 2500 so I need backup help sometimes../

I searched high and low for something that will work with wifi to a smartphone or tablet. (I already have both)  Most units you search for are either analog (lower quality image) or just too darn expensive.  I got frustrated and tried the home security option.  I found a Reolink Argus that hopefully will work.  For me I will have it on magnetic base and on rear of van for backup camera.  But it also can be moved to other locations.  It does run on I believe rechargeable lithium batteries and can save images to your phone, tablet, or sd card.  I'll report back when it comes in and I give it a try.  It's $99 from amazon.

gapper2

Click to expand...

Update and product review?

Mine has worked Great so far - 
Amazing picture - 

12 volt car power

Can also be powered by USB wall wart /phone charger ect 
Im using a good 120volt phone usb charger off Inverter 

Installing cam -

the Mirror View is not as Wide as the view camera SEE s -
camera see Taller than screen can show -

Using Touch screen -  Swipe  up/down  on the screen -
this will move View on screen up/down - Nice

do this before installing rear cam
helps in deciding where to install rear cam -

mounted mine high over rear door -
pointed to rear / blind spot area - works Good -
have not tried other locations

I did Not remove plastic cover on mirror/screen 
maybe helps anti glare - looks good

I keep in Rear view mode

Not Need to hook up Red wire on camera end -
tape off end of wire -

when Parked -
Power supplied by house battery Or van battery 
Cams and recorder work Exactly the same as when driving-
Easy setup to record 24 x7 if wanted - Nice 

Screen picture can be turned off And still be recording -

this video explains basics of Dash Cam operation -
Video is Very Good - dash cam

OOPs posted thread above in wrong place