DIY Camera select choice for Cargo bed, trailer tow, Camper n tow, etc.

Here is the plug I bought for an

Car Backup Camera Rilitor Rear View Parking Reverse Camera with HD CMOS 170° Angle IP67 Waterproof Night Vision Reversing Cameras for Cars Truck SUV RVs

accessory camera to use when the Northstar camper is on the truck, and when the tailgate is removed. I have the Car Solutions anytime camera module installed as seen here. My rear compressor, for the airbags, is connected to my accessory fuse panel, but I'm going to install a relay off the ign circuit, so the compressor only turns on when the truck is on. I'm planning to jump the 12v camera from the air compressor "switched" power, so the camera is always on. Using the plug, and power from the compressor, I should be able to check the camera anytime. I'll probably mount the camera on the camper with an exterior mounted wire that plugs into the compressor power and the OEM camera plug (for video only). Wish me luck...

 

Got it. Luckily, it will only be "on" when the camper is on the truck, and the truck is "on". I guess I'll find out how long this $13 camera will last!

 

These are Rostra parts that could be installed on a trailer/camper.

 

I am liking this last one. Plugging the camera in switches it to that trailer cam. Nice and easy. Are you sure the OEM camera is 12v?

 

The camera power is driving the relay coil, so you have to get that to match the camera voltage. I thought I heard somewhere that the cameras were 6v on these trucks? No idea of the accuracy of that, but you would want the coil voltage (and the additional camera) to match whatever the OEM voltage is. Would be easy enough to test with a meter I suppose

 

Also, I have a bunch of GEP stuff, and they go from 12 pin to 24 pin, so any ideas for an extra relay back there? Could also be 3 added fuses if you have any use for those

 

Are you saying that the relay coil will not close with less than 12v DC?

 

They make 6V relays, but I am not sure their availability in the ISO280 foot print. I think finding an aftermarket camera in 6V might be a challenge? Maybe that extra space in the GEP housing is where you could put an extra relay. Make them switched off of 12v, but one relay has 6v on 30 and 87a or 87, and the other relay has 12v on 30 and 87a or 87? Just thinking out loud. I always have to draw these things out, so not sure if that would be a good solution?

 

Assembly detail:

An additional 3 slot mating connector could be added from the end of the cab switch harness at the rear bumper location to facilitate the routing and install coming from the cab.
Shielded cable should be used between connectors and towards the added camera.

 

OK, @caribe makaira convinced me to make one I have the stuff I am missing ordered (except I have to find a camera I like). Then I have to see if I can talk @RyanDCLB into getting a part printed for me if it all works as I am hoping it does. Assuming all of this comes together nicely, I think I can do Caribe's idea justice. I am going to attempt a kind of "automatic" option that won't require a switch. We'll see how it goes

 

@Puppypunter :
This is same function, but interrupting the cameras ground. Test to see which one you prefer.

 

Thanks! I’ll have at least a week to decide

 

Lovely to have you pioneer it. I am still contemplating my trailer options.

For guys with a shell, does anyone place a camera in the higher 3rd brake light location?

 

They could...

Rostra 250-8631-3BL


Natika type also...

 

Added Trailer camera connector cable can be longer to reach the area near the towing connector.