DT Install: Dual Backup Camera

Anyone who has ever tried to hitch a tow vehicle to a trailer or tried backing into a tight spot using only rear-view mirrors knows it can be a frustrating endeavor. Many arguments have broken out over the driver’s inability to reverse properly, threatening to ruin an otherwise idyllic day. To combat this problem, AmeriCam has designed a dual backup camera system that makes reversing your truck and trailer quite simple. 

The AmeriCam TrailerView dual backup camera system includes two cameras that work together seamlessly. One camera is installed at the back of the trailer and the other on the back of the tow vehicle. The camera on the tow vehicle can be used for daily driving or for hitching your trailer. When the tow vehicle and trailer are hitched, the backup camera on the trailer operates, allowing the driver to safely reverse the trailer into even the most challenging spots.

The TrailerView dual camera system is available in two kits: the TrailerView Gold and the TrailerView Platinum. The Gold kit includes two backup cameras, one for the tow vehicle and one for the trailer, and costs $425. The Platinum kit includes two backup cameras and a front-view camera and costs $499. Both kits have an override feature that allows the driver to keep the camera on at all times.

PowerTech Diesel

We had heard how easy the system is to install and to operate so we decided to try it out ourselves. We took our 2004 Dodge 2500 truck with a 5.9L Cummins engine, along with our work trailer into PowerTech Diesel in Idaho Falls, Idaho, because this is a shop we trust to get the job done right. Shop owner Brent Willsey and shop manager Nick Snarr of PowerTech Diesel (formerly known as Powerlabs Diesel) are always great about getting us in on short notice. For the install we went with the Gold kit because we felt it would fit our needs perfectly.

Tech E.J. Wyatt was anxious to take a closer look, so before getting started he first laid out everything in the back of the bed to get a good overall view of the system.  

All the bundles of wire can look intimidating at first, but everything is color-coded, which takes a lot of the thinking out of it. The instructions are easy to follow and it’s just a matter of matching up the colored ends.

With the display monitor for the Triple Dog Gauge Tuner, or GT from Bully Dog already mounted in the corner of the dash, we decided to mount the 3.5-inch slim line monitor just above the mirror. And because it does pivot, it can be adjusted for a wide range of drivers. 

 To get power, we tied into the existing Bully Dog wires since both need key-on power to activate. This saved us from having to tie into another fuse. 

 The next step for Wyatt was to run the wires from the cab to the back of the truck. 

Quite a few zip ties are needed to properly secure the wiring to the frame below the truck to where it will be protected from all elements.

 The AmeriCam system is tied into the reverse lights so it only turns on when the Dodge is put into reverse. Here Wyatt unhooks the rear lights so he can determine which wires need to be used.

With unpredictable spring weather, it was nice to be working in such a large shop where both the truck and trailer could easily fit. PowerTech Diesel has been in this larger location for several years now, which is always full of trucks needing work.  

 Not only are the wires well-protected behind the rear light unit, but this is also where Wyatt mounted the control box for the system.

 Wyatt next drills the hole for the camera wire just behind where the license plate goes. There are a couple of different mounting options, but in order to see the hitch best, we went with this location.

To connect the trailer camera, it’s as simple as hooking up your trailer lights. And to make sure we don’t forget, we attached the connector to the light harness to remind us.

 To give the trailer camera a bird’s-eye view, Wyatt mounted the second camera above the rear trailer doors so it wouldn’t be in the way, plus it provides the best angle for seeing what’s behind you.

 The last step was to connect the wiring from the rear camera to the front of the trailer. By keeping the wires tucked away in the ceiling of the trailer, they’re better protected.

The wide angle view from behind the trailer allows us to clearly see what is behind us.

 Hooking up the trailer has never been easier and we’re glad we went with the above-the-mirror location for the monitor. When the vehicle is put into reverse gear, a sharp and vivid color image is instantly displayed on the screen. 

Designed in Silicon Valley, Calif., all AmeriCam products are engineered to the highest standards and after completing the install we’re very pleased with the results. It’s common to find backup camera systems on newer trucks being built today, but this was the first time we’ve ever installed a dual system and after testing it out it would be hard to go back to not having it.

For More Information

Bierley Electronics, the manufacturer behind AmeriCam automotive cameras, is dedicated to making driving safer. Bierley is a leading manufacturer in the field of image sensor and display technology with corporate offices in the U.S., the UK and Asia. The privately held company was formed in 2002 and holds multiple patents on its technology and products. For additional information, to purchase a kit or to inquire about additional camera kits, visit www.americam.co or call 800-985-0535.

PowerTech Diesel is located in Idaho Falls, Idaho, and specializes in Power Stroke, Cummins and Duramax trucks. Visit www.powertechdiesel.com or call 208-542-7793 for more information.