hertfordnc wrote:
The perfect solution would be a backup cam on the truck that assists with hooking up the trailer and then switches to a camera on the trailer for backing it into the campsite but i'd also like to be able to switch on the camera to monitor the road behind me, like tailgaters and whatnot.
And, i want the whole thing for under $100
If you are willing to run wires, and plug up a connector when you hook up the trailer, what you want to do for under $100 is entirely possible, and you will have some change left over.
On ebay, search for "rear view camera for trucks". You will find many systems with two cameras, one monitor, and wiring for under $60. You may need an extender cable to have enough wiring for the trailer.
Many folks believe these cheaper systems are not good, but I have used several of these over a few years with almost no problems. If you do have a problem, a replacement camera or monitor will be less than $20.
I have not had good luck with the cheaper wireless systems, but other folks report good results. I have one of these wireless systems on my boat trailer transmitting to the tow car, and it flickers even over that short distance. I prefer hard wired cameras for good results.
Most all of the monitors allow you to select camera 1 or camera 2 from the buttons on the monitor. I prefer to not hook up the trigger wire to the backup light circuit so that you can select either camera at any time. Of course, if the trigger wire is not hooked to the backup circuit, you will then have to push a button on the monitor to see what you want to see.
Each camera will need a 12 volt source, and this can come from the truck or from wiring on the trailer.
Let us know how it works out.
Fred
