Backup Camera Adjustment

[JudyJB]

Are backup cameras adjustable? I have been thinking about the backup camera on my new RV. It has been three weeks since I drove it, but I remember that mostly I saw the bumper and about 6-7 feet beyond that, tops. It concerned me at the time because I kept thinking that if I were backing up, I wouldn't see anything until just before I hit it!!

I had figured I would be able to see farther behind me, even a close vehicle that was following me. Is this unrealistic?

I was watching an online video of someone backing up a motorhome, and they seemed to see a lot farther back than that--maybe 20-25 feet.

So those of you who have a backup camera, how far back can you see?

I am taking it into the dealers after my short first camping trip because of a trim piece that is loose, so maybe I can have this taken care of at the same time, assuming it is adjustable.

FYI, my first camping spot is a pull-through!!! Aren't I smart?

[Bethers]

Back-up cameras were originally put on delivery trucks, etc - to do just what it sounds like yours does - show IMMEDIATELY behind the vehicle - make sure no kids, etc got there - as you only back-up slowly. The side mirrors do the rest. That said, there are back-up cameras mounted and on for many other reasons now. Some people put them on just to make it easier to hook up their 5th wheels for example. Some mh users like them to see their toad is still behind them. Whether yours is adjustable or not, you'll need to ask at the shop. But if you adjust it - remember, it'll stay where ever that is. Someone might know otherwise, but I've never seen one that is adjustable while driving. Have seen rigs with 3 of them - 1 on each side, 1 in the back - most I know have said they don't like the side ones.

[oregonrambler1]

Judy, our backup camera is totally adjustable, the buttons are on the same console as the picture lens. I can adjust it, with buttons just like the side mirrors, to see way beyond my toad but I usually have it set so I can see the tow bar to just beyond the CRV rear bumper. It is a big help in backing into a camping spot but it's really only good to see how far back I'm getting and even then only if I have a reference point -like a log or tree. I've also found that I don't like driving in the dark with the camera on, it's distracting. I did find a night setting that's pretty good but when we're just cruising along I shut it off.

[sharon]

Mine's adjustable with buttons on the camera. I have it set most of the time to see behind the toad so I know when I've cleared a truck and can get back in my lane. Very seldom use it for backing up, just to see if I'm gonna hit a tree behind me. LOL! I had the side cameras, hated them and when my camera went out decided not to replace the side ones. Mine has a really cool feature, when you put the rv in reverse, it shows graduated lines in a V shape behind you....great for when I'm backing into PeeWee the RZR's little trailer to hook up.

[Bethers]

See that - lots of adjustable ones now - question is - is yours? So many different ones out there.

[JudyJB]

Question: Did most of you buy a separate backup camera, or is yours installed in the dashboard as mine is?? If it is in the dashboard, did you buy it after you bought the RV??

This is something I really never investigated when I bought it. Maybe I should have looked at several different cameras. I suppose I could still replace it, especially since it has already been replaced.

Another issue to investigate next weekend, after I flush the antifreeze out of the water system, and figure out how to do a bunch of other things. Will have to drive to the campground without having read all the manuals, however. Glad I have taken this time to do some figuring things out before really and truely hitting the road for good.

[Bethers]

I bought a separate - as my rig didn't come with one. I had been without for a year. Returned the one I bought after a month for a full refund - and decided a back-up camera wasn't necessary. Someday may have one again, but it's not on my must have list. Would like it more now just to check on my toad now and then.

[BirdbyBird]

Like Beth mentioned, mine only shows me that area immediately behind my rig. I can see the tree...table.....drop off...at the back of the camping spot so I know to STOP. I can also see that my little Honda fit is still following me as it should. For passing and pulling back into lanes, I use my side mirrors...

[Birdie]

Judy, my camera system was OEM and installed in the dash. It includes the back and right and left side cameras. The back has audio receive capability in the cabin. I think the newer rigs have slightly different cameras than the slightly older models.

When I am connected and driving forward the tow bar and front of the car are revealed in the display. The side cameras give you good views so that you can see the wide angle of slightly behind and way out the side and of course no itty bitty thing can hide at your side. When I put the rig in reverse the back camera goes into wide angle and gives a good view of what is behind you. It doesn't show what is real close or up high near the roof.

The audio is distracting when you are driving down the road. There is a way to turn off the audio but I haven't gotten to that page in the owners manual.

I love the side cameras as I see them as a helpful tool. Driving a Class A is different than driving a Class C.

Wait until you drive it before you make any costly changes. On Bunky I had one installed in the back and had it positioned to see down the road behind me. I like that again so that someone doesn't slip up on you. I also had one installed over the gas cap. Sure wish I had that installed on Suite Pea. Several times I have gotten back in and pulled forward.

Anyway, that's my story on the camera issue.

[JudyJB]

Thanks, Birdie. I only backed it up once and then let my son drive it to the storage lot and he was the one who parked it, so maybe it does have two angle views. I will need to read the instruction booklet this coming weekend.

My son suggested a locking gas cap, so that may be on my wish list for mother's day and my birthday.

I was not able to get side camera, unfortunately. They sound handy.