Update November 2018. I replaced the monitor with a duplicate this month.
I've been asked what I used, who the supplier was, how much it cost. and also a point was raised about possible problems with wireless cameras.
The following video shows some of the wiring issues for installing the monitor and provides further details about the actual install. There will be a part 3, which provides further details about the installation of the control switches. However, I do suggest that most readers consider using a simple "cigarette lighter" plug to power the receiver and monitor. I recommend this for several reasons:
- The installed cost will be lower.
- The amount of work will be less.
Before proceeding, I also want to address the following:
- Question: Why haven't I published a parts list? Answer: This blog is not a specific recommendation for a specific product. I am willing to send an email to anyone who requests this information. However, I cannot certify or provide any warranty for products made by someone else and purchased or installed by the reader.
- Q: Why did I go wireless? A: Primary reason is to avoid running wiring from the front of the camper van to the rear. For older units which are out of warranty, this might be an acceptable solution. For a camper van which is under the CV manufacturer's warranty, making certain modifications might void a warranty. The changes I made were to the chassis and chassis electrical. There was no hole drilling in the coach section or running of wires through the camper coach. That should keep Roadtrek or whomever happy.
- Q: Are there issues with wireless transmitters and receivers for cameras? A: I can't say that I've encountered any to date with the units I purchased. These use technology similar to some of the wireless home phones, which has improved significantly in recent years. That said, I haven't stored the camper van at 0F or cooked it at 110F with the system installed. I will, of course, remove the monitor when not in use. How the camera and transmitter/receiver pair will fare over time is anyone's guess. I also need to state that I deliberately chose a transmitter/receiver rated 10 meters (about 33 feet maximum separation) and I also took steps to minimize anything between the transmitter/receiver pair which would reduce or interfere (attenuate) the signal. The actual separation is about 18 feet and with little or no metal to attenuate the signal.
- Q: Do you recommend this procedure over the manufacturer's? A: Certainly not. This is intended as an enhancement. I suspect that most camper van owners decide at one time or another to get enhancements or make limited improvements. That may be as simple as a water pressure regulator, a surge protector, or a better rear view camera system.
So enjoy the video. Part 3 will show certain aspects of the toggle/selector switch fabrication.
