Caravan Reversing Camera

[Lanceanot]

I tow a caravan to which I’d like to install a rear view / reversing camera.
However, I don’t want a second screen cluttering up the dash so I got to thinking, and this is where you guys come in and set me straight, could I tap into the car’s existing camera feed to the nav screen and “toggle switch” views between the car’s camera and the caravan’s camera?
D4 MY11 TDV6 2.7 with surround cameras
If there is agreement that it is possible in principal I may have a few more questions

[MadJax]

That is an interesting question as I have just ordered a caravan that comes with a reversing camera.


Tomorrow I will be fitting a EBC, the video cable and replacing the existing sockets with a Flat 12 pin and two Anderson Plugs, one from the duel battery and another direct from the main battery for the caravans ESC.


I have considered looking at plugging the video feed into the DVD input, but have now ruled that out as:


a) I need the rear view to be visible at all times, without the need to switch between other views.
b) The monitor supplied has two inputs and I have a spare camera I was thinking of using on the front of the car.


Hope you find a solution that fits your situation.


MadJax

[Franz]

Not on a D4 but I have a reversing camera on the D2 and one on the van. I have a single 7" screen and a switch to separate the camera inputs.


If you can find the existing input you should be able to do the same.


Cheers,


Franz

[RHS58]

I am more inclined to use a separate screen for rear vision caravan camera.
Particularly I would look to replace the rear vision mirror with a combo mirror and screen.
Leaves the LR dash screen for navigation, radio, etc.
Would try to avoid hanging stuff off dash or windscreen.

[CSBrisie]

I've seen somewhere on the net - will try and find it - in the UK, where you can buy a replacement rear vision mirror which incorporates a rear view camera for the Van/horse float etc; its sold through UK Land Rover dealerships I recall.

Here it is:

http://www.landrovertrailair.co.uk/products/

[ADMIRAL]

I've seen somewhere on the net - will try and find it - in the UK, where you can buy a replacement rear vision mirror which incorporates a rear view camera for the Van/horse float etc; its sold through UK Land Rover dealerships I recall.

Here it is:

Trailair » Product

Handy and easy to fit, but way too small, and the vision at night is questionable. Have a look and drive of a similar unit before going down that path. Turned me off the idea.

[Fred Nerk]

I have read it correctly, the Trailair system is a camera to see the tow hitch. It does not mention a camera at the rear of the the caravan, which is what Lanceanot is seeking. Also has TPMS which you may not necessarily need (if you already have a system).

AND it disables the auto high beam function.

[dazray]

I have the one that clips over your rear view mirror. at has 4 inputs and
works well. The only downside as Admiral said the rear view vision at night is no where near as good as a normal mirror.
You get used to it though, it is mainly when there is no light behind you.
if there is a reasonable amount of light at the rear, ie street lights or other traffic it is not too bad. If there is no light behind you, it's dark.
I have had mine since new (MY11) as I didn't have the reverse camera option. I currently use one input for reversing camera and one for the caravan camera. the good thing about this setup is that when your driving with the caravan you naturally look at the rear view mirror and you see everything behind you. If they had one that wasn't dark at night they would be perfect.

[Melbourne Park]

...
I have had mine since new (MY11) as I didn't have the reverse camera option. ... If they had one that wasn't dark at night they would be perfect.

In 2011, cameras weren't nearly as good in low light. That has changed, so perhaps you only need to purchase a later model camera, it might work now quite well at night?

I am looking for the same solution. I'd prefer a bluetooth connection but whatever happens the screen in the vehicle will need to be powered by a cable. Then again I am trying to avoid towing at night anyway ...

[simmo1]

Unless you are towing a lot of the time might it not be an idea to have a dedicated monitor that you can remove when not needed. One method of attachment that is sort of discreet is with the 'hold my phone' mounts. Google them. You need a heavy duty camera with a lense of maybe 90 deg to be any good for rear view. Check Safety Dave.

Cheers, Simmo