Backup camera location for 03 tacoma

I am planning on putting a backup camera onto my truck, specifically a pioneer ND-BC010. But here's the problem; I don't know where to mount it. I was thinking of mounting it on the tailgate handle, but I am unsure if it's the best place to mount it at, and if I did decide to, I don't know how I would fit it.

 

I've seen people take the lock out of one of these and replace it with a camera https://a.co/d/571rGqE

 

Is there any reason they couldn't drill that hole in the existing one?

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/1st-gen-backup-camera.547051/page-3#post-28152164

 

I had an old pop-n-lock that the lock mechanism was shot. A little work got the camera in. If you go this route, a couple things to consider- the angle of the camera is a little high. Maybe heat the plastic up and gently ease it down. It’s hard to see the other car when backing into a parking space. On the plus side- when the tailgate is down, the camera is focused right on my trailer hitch, making it super easy to hook up a trailer. Also it might be challenging running the wire for the camera though the tailgate. Mine kinda pinches when closed.

 

I attached mine above the license plate with the mounting plate sitting behind it. Allows you to put the tailgate down and still see to back up. I have a "generic" camera style though. It's a square camera module with a metal plate that swivels. I prefer that style though because it's modular and can be replaced easily or unplugged if pulling off the bumper.

 

Whichever location you chose, make sure the camera has a way to easily disconnect it.

Otherwise you have to unplug it all the way up at the next connection point, sometimes all the way to the back of the radio.

The license plate mounts seem to work well. Just plan ahead if you have to replace whatever it's mounted to.

 

I run the rear camera from the license plate area, works very well, but I use a pretty wide angle cam from Natika front and rear. Highly recommended.

 

I mounted mine to the license plate frame. Unless the camera's field of view encompasses an honest 180 degrees, that's probably the best way to go. If I were sure that a camera is available that covers a true 180 degrees I would consider getting one, drilling a hole in the tailgate below the handle and mounting it there.