reversing camera for caravans

Hi there. We have fitted a rear view camera to our van. That is 'on all the time' rear vision, not 'switched on only when in reverse gear' reversing camera. (Both are on the market at present).
To be honest, the value in reversing the van is usually marginal, especially if the camera has a fish eye lens that distorts the image. Even with normal mirrors and the camera, my wife can always find a spot to stand in where I can't see her or her signals. The only exception is when reversing around a corner (in a built up area, for instance), where you can track the near side of the roadway, and keep the van parallel to the kerb all the way.
But value as a rear vision camera is HUGE. It means you are aware the instant the car in your blind spot is pulling out to pass; it gives you advance warning of the idiot about to pass despite double white lines; it is great for watching a truck approaching and being able to talk on UHF if required.Hope this helps
Chris (SA)

I too support the use of a 'rear view' (watching the road) camera not a 'backing in' camera. Focus is quite different on the two products, although the reversing camera does has some vision when backing. Your mirrors should give you enough view to line up where you want to go, and if necessary have your partner standing to the right of the rig to signal you when to stop.

Motherhen

When reversing the van, I get my wife to stand somewhere at the back with a handheld UHF. She just says Left, or Right or Stop and I adjust the vehicle accordingly.

Very easy and works well.

I am also having a rear view camera put on our new van, more for seeing what is coming up behind than for reversing. I find the system described above works best for us.

cheers

I had my camera put on van while being built. This not only saved money its a neat job. I think its a great help when on the road in traffic to be able to see whats going on behind you. For reversing i only use it backing in to my shed to tell me where back wall is. The answer to your ? is yes and get it done while being buildt

I have a Polaris system installed camera on the rear of the landcruiser for hitching by myself and a camera on the back of the caravan,its worth its weight in gold.
Had a wireless system to start with was useless caravan manufacturer changed over to the polaris system.

I've got a reversing camera with excellent audio and clarity.

Its a "Catherine" brand.

Dick

Same response to same question on another forum.

I agree that it is a good idea to get it wired when van is being built.

We have a small reversing camera on the vehicle directly over the tow ball. With a bit of practice, you can get right on the spot every time for connecting up, making it a one person job. On the back of the van, high up, we have a rear view camera.

I would not be without either. A great investment that adds to safety as well as giving you confidence in your overall view around your rig. The rear view camera does not replace good towing mirrors, just improves your view and largely removes the blind spot behind the van.

Brand of mine is Polaris.

Norm C

Hi Sue,

I agree with the others - it's a great investment for keeping track of what's behind when on the road.

Can I recommend though, that you spend a few dollars extra and get a CCD camera and not a cheaper CMOS job. The former gives a much better quality image. The CMOS is alright for occasional reversing, but if you have it on all the time while driving, the CCD is definitely worth it.

Cheers
Gerry

Hi. I have a PSVT brand with a hard wired camera.The camera has a microphone incorperated so that anyone behind can give instructions as well as seeing the rear view on the screen. The receiver/video has a speaker incorperated. Cost around $650.00 but works really well. Bob.