I travel to Australia to visit friends and family several times each year and when I’m there, I often field requests to do some installations to the Australian ‘caravan’ as travel trailers are named there.
I am often asked if a rearview camera is useful, and the answer is always ‘yes’. I have a caravan in Australia, as well as my fifthwheel here in Templeton, and the rearview camera was installed in the caravan by a previous owner. It really helps as a reference to see what’s behind, especially backing up in a parking lot where anyone can silently walk or drive close behind.
I’ve traveled the USA towing my fifthwheel without a rearview camera and gas stations can be the most useful places to have a rear camera. I usually walk all the way around the back of the RV and then keep a keen eye on anyone or anything that may sneak in behind. That’s if I don’t have a spotter. Even then, if I am reversing any distance, it’s mandatory to reverse very slowly, check both mirrors and watch for anything that moves back there.
During my recent visit to Australia, I happened to install two different types of reversing cameras. The first was powered by a tiny solar panel built right into the top of the camera. This provided the power for the camera to send a signal back to the dashboard monitor. The monitor is plugged into the cigarette lighter, (or 12 volt power outlet!). This provided a very clear view with red and yellow grid lines as guides.
The second camera was also wireless, but the voltage to drive the camera was connected to a 12 volt DC circuit that went all the way to the towing vehicle’s battery.
My caravan in Australia uses 12 volts from a marker light on the rear wall. This means I need the tow car’s lights on to use the camera.
If you would like to explore the possibility of having a rearview camera installed in your travel trailer or motorhome, contact me today to discuss the possibilities. I am always happy to install a device you provide. We can meet at your location and investigate the project and estimate the best way to hook up your RV safety camera.
Phone 805 610 9394 for a consultation about rearview cameras for RVs.