Automatic Trailer Camera Module

Automatic Trailer Camera Module - First Edition Prototype (list)

No switches, No buttons, No extra screens. After installing this little box all I have to do now is plug in my trailer and put the truck in reverse. When the trailer is disconnected the factory backup camera functions as normal.

This prototype is a 90% (give or take) plug and play waterproof (ip68/ip67 ratings) automatic trailer camera module. The unit plugs in-line with the factory backup camera tailgate connector and mounts on the back-side of the bumper. The unit is protected by 2-amp fuse and powered by the 12v reverse wire in the 7-pin tow package wiring harness.

If there is enough interest in the unit I will consider taking it into production mode. The production version may include these additional options.
- 100% plug and play (pig tail harness off of factory reverse lights - also eliminates need for the 7-pin tow package harness)
- Optional power feed connector that would allow user to install a switch in the cab to power on the trailer camera at anytime (would require the anytime backup camera mod).
- Optional bracket for the trailer camera harness so the user wouldn't have to drill through the bumper if they chose not to (leased vehicle?).

My one-off materials cost for the module is about $120. I'm thinking a production version will run about $150-175??

User Required Items:
- 12v trailer backup camera ($10+ Amazon/ebay)
- Male to Female Video signal extension cable ($5 ebay for 25')
- 18-20 AWG wire for camera power ($5)
- 18-20 AWG wire for camera ground (tap into trailer ground or drill into trailer frame)
- Trailer camera wire loom protector if desired ($5-10)

Let me know what you guys think, and once again, THANK YOU TACOMA WORLD!

Now some photos...

The Automatic Trailer Camera Module and Trailer Camera Wiring Harness ready for install.


I ran the power and ground into the Tow Package wiring loom...Used waterproof butt connectors and heat shrink for protection. (Production model will have waterproof pigtail connectors from reverse light connector on back to taillight housing. NO Splicing!)


Waterproof connectors plug in-line with the tailgate backup camera. The module can be mounted with 3m tape (I used a single sheet metal screw and zipties for the prototype)


Clean factory looking connector for the trailer camera harness.

Waterproof IP67 rated connector for the trailer camera harness.

Plugged into trailer


In Park


After shifting to Reverse


3 second delay then switches to trailer. I’ll be finding a different backup camera for my trailer as this one does not have enough of a wide angle to capture reference points.

 

Interested List:

1. @okichewy1
2. @OnHartung'sRoad
3. @Memb1121
4. @echomonkey
5. @Scott B.
6. @Soundguy12
7. @Taco16LB
8. @TelosHedge
9. @airsavage
10. @atrain23

 

Very interested. Have a 19' boat with trailer that it would help even better backing (I love backing anyways).

 

You'd have to find a very waterproof camera for the back of the boat! Probably some out there but I have no experience in that department.

 

added

 

Very cool idea. I’m interested

 

Added

 

Interested.

 

Sweet I’ll put you on the list.

 

Interested.

 

I’ll put you on the list.... I’ll be busy flying this summer so it may become a winter project.

 

Thank you.

 

I have zero need for this right now, but this is awesome.

 

Interested!

 

Interested !

 

Right on, I’ll add you to the list.

 

Interested as well!

 

Got ya added

 

Interested

 

That would be a pretty slick thing to do... I do wonder if, since most trailers have the license plate off to one side, that the skewed point of view might cause issues backing up.

I'd personally like to find a small battery operated camera that I can view from my phone that I can slap on the back of my camper on a suction cup or something, for temporary use when backing. Most of the time, I'll only be backing up either into my driveway, or into a spot in the storage lot, so I don't really need it there all the time.