We love our vision works back up camera. Our brand new unit the monitor went blank so we called customer service and they replaced it no charge. A year later we broke the antenna on the monitor and called customer service again. We bought a new antenna and they shipped it next day we had it. I can’t speak enough about the great customer service this company provides!
I wired my camera to a switch by the door so I could use it for a rear security camera while parked as well as a rear view while driving. I put a power plug in the camper to use on the monitor. I wrapped the extra cable around my ac and mounted the antenna on the outside metal of the ac just under the plastic cover to protect it from tree limbs. Works great.
Hi Chad, Nelson here from the Keys. I have the side cameras and although I don't need them to make a lane change, I found that where these cameras shine is when you are backing up blind side. When you loose the side of your trailer in your mirror because of your backup angle, you can just look at your camera and see the entire side of the trailer again. That to me was worth it. I hope this makes sense and helps with your decision.
What Nelson said. We have a 42' Montana and really the only time I use the side cameras is when I am backing in so I can see my blind spot(s). They came in real handy parking at a KOA in Tucson last Christmas trying to park at night.
We just switched from Furrion to the Haloview with the side and rear cameras. We ran ours on permanent 12v with a toggle switch so they can double as our security cameras. I love the record feature, I think that's where the side cameras are great in case we are ever in an accident. Just finished our 1st trip from Fort Myers to Cherokee and it worked flawlessly.
I have the Furrion system and have the side cameras. Love them for blind side backing. Parking the camper by myself (and even with the family) the side cameras make it so much easier and gives you the ability to keep track of what is there. I have my kids help me with setup and I can keep an eye on whoever is on the blind side if I have to move the camper. Huge plus as a safety feature there.
Hi Chad, I greatly love your video, I didn't use vision works cameras, but I am using the Haloview camera system BTHandy7 on the rear of my caravan, it doesn't require hardwiring the camera due to it is a camera with a battery pack, and it has a perfect view of what's behind me and for hitching up without the need for guidance plus the resolution is so good I can watch butterfly dancing in my garden as the range is very good.
We bought the VisionWorks camera from TechnoRV with a larger monitor than yours. No side-mounted cameras. We had excellent service from VisionWorks when our antennae broke. Monitor has excellent clarity but camera occasionally lags and blinks out. Not sure what to do about that. We have a 36 ft Momentum and 2019 F350. Love your clean-looking dash setup! Thanks for another excellent video. Cheers to you both!
We have a 48’ 5ver and have the side cameras on the forward marker lights. We boondock a lot and find them very useful for going down the sometimes narrow dirt/gravel roads to safely gauge the distance off the trees and bushes in addition to utilizing the mirrors. Also, when going down a 2 lane road, I find it vereeee useful to assist in staying as far right as safely possible to avoid having the coach on, or crossing into the other lane while bending or turning left on the winding roads to avoid a potential mishap with a vehicle traveling in the other direction. Me, being in the drivers seat can be a bit deceptive on actually how close you actually are to the edge of the road - it seems closer. So, knowing that you can get over to the right a couple more feet or so, is a game changer on those roads. Of course, I use my mirrors, but the extra set of eyes (cameras) are gooood peace of mind!! 👍😃🍻
We have Haloview system with the side marker cameras. The side views have come in handy in Dallas and El Paso traffic as well as the Port Aransas TX ferry. Also, I chose to power my cameras only with the 7 way pig tail plugged into the tow vehicle. Just had to add a blocking diode between the gen start/brake controller batt in the front compartment. We have a 397th similar to your old rig
The side mounted cameras are really a plus when backing the trailer also they help cover the blind spots. I drove an ambulance that had side, rear, and front mounted cameras the side and rear cameras were a big help in covering blind spots . Especially near the top in being able to see tree limbs and low hanging wires that were not visible in the mirrors. I am planning to put side and rear cameras on my work and play that I am building. Thanks for the tip on wiring them to the marker lights.
Chad, we our love cameras. We have rear and side marker cameras and a truck bed camera for hitching up our Reese goosebox hitch. We love having side marker cameras!
Awesome video! We have the HaloView backup camera as well as the side cameras. While driving we only use the side cameras. Really makes it a better driving experience.
Chad, I’ve got the Furrion side marker cams. I hardly use them but they can be wired so that when you hit the left blinker, the display will automatically switch to the left marker light… and same for the right blinker. I agree with you though about the side mirrors. They’re great on the Ford. If I’m parking the RV by myself or I’m somewhere without the wife to help guide me… I’ll use the side marker cams. So they’re not bad to have just in case but not necessary by any stretch of the imagination.
I appreciate your instructions in this video, Im installing a back up an RV back up camera and monitor. Very helpful! I don't have a furrow system like yours but I think I got it figured out. I will be using my running lights while driving.
Hey Chad, We bought the Furrion camera System for our 44 fr fifth wheel with rear and side cameras. Truthfully, I only use the rear cam. The mirrors do a good job reaching the sides.
I had the side marker lights on my travel trailer when I had my F150 and they were very helpful, but since I have upgraded the tow rig to a F350, I didn't get the side marker cameras for the new 5th wheel, just the rear camera. I find the convex mirrors do the same job that the cameras did. In backing by yourself or even with a helper they did help immensely. Just wish the cameras could all be tied into the Ford monitor so it would be one less thing on the dash.
Thanks for the video. We went with the Gen2 Vision Works camera that wires directly into the Furrion pre-mount using a headset looking jack. It's also a bit smaller and has a nice look to it. We went with the 7" screen as we decided to also add the side marker cameras. I installed the rear camera myself but since we had an appointment with the dealer for something else, we're going to have them install the side marker cameras and the roof antenna. We also went with the Bullet Mounting Solutions dash mount system for our GMC to mount our screens (TPMS, RV GPS, and VisionWorks)
That camera's picture quality looks nice! You asked about the side marker light cameras... I installed them on our 35' Reflection and I have not found them useful once. The F350 truck mirrors totally cover it while driving like you said, and when you're trying to back in they don't have a good angle to help you much.
I have the Furrion system on my rig and the side markers on it are pretty much useless for backing because they aren't adjustable for angle. They point too far out and don't include much (if any) of the side of the trailer in the image. The only real use I have for them is if I need a quick view of the blind side of the trailer on a back in.
I have the Furion system with the two side camera and the rear. I really get value out of the side cameras. I like them for a second view with lane changes and when parking it gives a closer view than my concave/convex mirror. My system also lets me take the monitor inside the RV and use it as a security monitor while at a stop.
Sorry for the late comment on the 2022 Grand Design National Rally. We just want to thank you for being so nice to us when we met you at the rally. We’ve been rving for over 18 years but always enjoy your videos. This year we are off to visit our 49th state, Alaska. Do you have any plans to travel there?
We have the GD2979RL and decided to go with the side marker cameras on this our 6th Rv. These have really been a game changer for us. Not only does it make changing lanes safer and backing in tight spots easier, but I find it helps greatly when making tight turns in gas stations and parking areas. They are well worth the addition, especially on a longer rig. Love your videos!
I have the side cameras and have never used them. I thought they’d be useful when backing but the mirrors are better. The rear view is great and works for all things I’ve needed - with only 18 months fulltime experience
We have both the rear camera and the side cameras. Our side view mirrors do not extend that far out so having the cameras on the side is a big plus for us.
I have the VisionWorks camera system, recommended by TechnoRV. I have the rear observation camera, and the side marker cameras. It’s amazing, especially when backing up by myself!
Great review! I definitely like the side mirrors for backing up as I usually lose the area behind the RV when the truck is at angle; especially the opposite side.
We have the Furrion with the side markers and to be honest don't use the side camers very often. Like you, we monitor the rear while driving down the road.
On the monitor for our rig, I use small bungee cords to attach it to the rear view mirror. This does leave a wire hanging down from the mirror to where is plugs into the cigar lighter on top of the dash, but so far that hasn’t been a big deal for me. I’m sure it could be wired into some other 12V that would be in the headliner, for example. (At any rate, when most folks note I am bungee cording the monitor to the mirror, they know why the wire hanging down doesn’t bother me. They are small bungee cords and are barely noticeable!)
One hundred percent agree with rear view camera wired into marker lights, by the way. New Minnie Winnie had the camera wired into the 12V trailer. Changed it right away.
We have a much smaller rig than yours and while it is certainly nice to have a camera for backing up, we use our camera mostly as an electronic rear view mirror. It is always great when you can see what is directly behind you while on the road!
I loved the video and had the haloview 7" monitor on top of my dash. However, I am now using the Ford auxiliary camera on the rear of the 5th wheel to see it on the huge Ford 12" oem monitor, so no more additional screens for me. My haloview wireless camera froze up or went dark from time to time. You should contact Ford to see if they would sponsor a camera you could review for them!
I have seen two rear camera set ups where one straight out for driving and one looking down for backing. I'm interested in getting a four camera setup for our unit.
I bought the furrion 3 camera system about 2 years ago. It only really came in handy a few times. The majority of the time it was annoying. If I get another camera I'll only use the backup camera.
My vision works cut out more than my furrion, but I didn’t have the antenna cable. The big problem for me was the view angle was so much smaller than the furrion. I want to be able to see the bumper of the trailer for backing up and see cars behind me too. The vision works just was to “zoomed” in for that. But the image quality when it worked was much better than the furrion.
hey all. i purchased the visionworks from TechnoRV a couple years ago. Very disappointed. The video was very choppy. Called TechnoRV and their service was great. Put me in touch with VW directly and received the antennae extension. It did help a little, but it is still choppy. I am not sure i will get the side marker cameras which was my final goal.
Chad, 1. VisionWorks has a ram mount compatible adpter for mounting. 2. I, too bought this system with 7” monitor from TechnoRv. I hope you have better reception than I have. Let me add some context: Both TechnoRV and the VisionWorks team have been great to work with. I have a 2020 F-350 and a Solitude 375RES (41+ feet long). I have yet to get a great signal from teh rear view camera. Tried better antennas, a couple different antenna extenders, monitors with improved shielding. The video from my rear camera still lags 3-5 seconds behind the actuak movement of the trailer and the video drops from time to time. The sideview cameras and a 4th camera I have for montoring the hitch for now) all work great with no reception issues. Watching your video, I see that they have an even longer antenna extender than the one they sent me…mine only gets me up to the forward AC unit. I am not ready to give up-the VisionWorks team has been great to work with and the alternate monitors, antennas and extenders were all sent to me at no cost. I am reaching out to them about a longer extender and, since it is the only thing I have not tried, the 7-pin adapter you mentioned in the off chance that the power to the rear camera is just not sufficient. Sorry for the long message-thanks for another great video! Dan
As a follow up, I did speak with Cody at VisionWorks. They are sending me a longer antenna extender. While I have had some challenges getting the performance I want, the support from VisionWorks and TechnoRV has been spectacular! I expect to get this system working properly once I receive the new extender.
@@ChangingLanes possibly. I first tried it a little further away, in front of the bathroom skylight which kept it a little further back from the leading edge if the trailer. It helped a little moving forward , but next to the AC unit. The AC unit also provides a little protection from branches.
We have this system as well as the stock system on our 2017 Newmar motorhome. The rear cam is 1000000% better than the Voyager rear camera and the best thing is that all the VisionWorks cameras are always on. We also have the side cameras from Visionworks. The Voyagers change when you use your turn signals so I can’t see what my TOAD is doing if I put my turn signal on when I turn. The side cameras are most valuable for checking the “cut point” when I am backing up and I have to believe they’d be even more valuable with a 5th wheel.
Thanks for your videos. My Furrion I made a bracket that fits over my rear view mirror and my Furrion monitor is on my rear view mirror. Anyway if the camera manufacturer can make their monitor fit onto the rear view mirror since the rear view is basically dead once the trailer is hitched
We have the haloview 7 with marker light cameras, Also needed the repeater for the rear camera. side marker cameras are nice to have. another one of those things that you don't know what you don't see till you see it. We pull a 42 foot toyhauler fifth wheel with our ram. A lot of times off roads we probably shouldn't, but can see down the sides with out turning to look at the mirror in tight situations.
The performance of our Furrion on our Imagine is substandard, the display is way too dim & when I hit the button to split the screen to show 3 or 4 camera views, it does so for 1/4 second and then goes back to just a single view. It has the extra wiring to go to the side camera view in a motorhome, but it is not practical in a pickup truck, and having to hit the button to go to the side marker cameras manually is not very practical either. Lazy Days did not have many practical tips to solve our issues with it, and neither did the GD helpline. I miss the old Voyager camera we had on our Lance. I may consider converting over to something better. Thanks for the visuals. Cheers, Davey - KU9L
I love having my rearview camera on my motorhome on all the time so I can see the Honda pilot being flat towed behind me. And as you say, passing someone you can easily see that you’re completely clear and safe to move back over. Those type of connectors you used I always just throw in the trash if they come with something I bought. L O L.
Chad, the question I have is do you leave your monitors mounted on your dash at all times or do you remove them if you take the truck to the store or sightseeing? Thank you. We watch your videos and learn a lot every time.
I have a Visionworks camera from Techno RV. Works great. The camera runs off trailer power that is pre wired . There is a switch on the control panel to turn camera power on/off on my Alliance 5th wheel.
I follow you guys and you actually asked a question that I’m wondering? How many folks are using the side marker cameras? I am interested in buying a full 4 camera setup….but also visionworks vs Furrion? The side markers from furrion are antenna less vs having the antennas…..
Ugh I thought you would be doing a video on Wilmington NC this week 😢. We are headed there at the end of June to see our Navy son. We were hoping for a video tour with your always excellent suggestions.
I like my side cameras since I record all of my camera footage. If anyone ever runs into the side of my 37 foot camper (happened to my friend), the side camera will record that.
Why did you not use the FORD camera and TPMS?? I plan on installing them on my 2023 F250 this summer. I don’t want all of those extra screens on my dash.
Thanks for the video! I, too, have a VisionWorks rearview camera (no side cameras). We have a 26ft GD trailer with an aluminum frame. I've been very frustrated with the lag and freezes. TechnoRV put me in touch with WV who was extremely supportive. They sent me the extension cable which I have not yet put on. Besides not liking the aesthetics, I worry about the cable blowing around and causing wear on the roof (or itself). I was hoping to avoid taping down the entire cable - especially if future maintenance was required. What has your experience been with how the cable has weathered the travel so far?
On our class A, we had a rear view camera and side view cameras. When we turned on a signal, half the screen was that side camera displayed. That was awesome because our factory mirrors didn't have convex mirrors. Worked great. On our new fifth wheel, we have only the rear. The ford mirrors do a great job of showing me the sides. I really only use the rear camera for backing up.
I had a connection issue with my new Furrion Vision S camera. Worked fine while hard wired, but no signal from the back of fifth wheel. Furrion recommended a power management dongle that goes between 7 pin of trailer and truck. Worked perfectly. Issue is computer power management of newer trucks does not deliver the necessary power to the camera.
Chad...spool up the extra wire...take cover off AC unit and zip tie it to the AC units metal frame, This will keep it under the AC cover and out of the way
Great stuff. I am looking for a new camera for our 30' Airstream as well as one for the truck camper which is totally enclosed. Visonworks looks great. Funny hopw I can't stop thinking about your ladder, though. Who makes your ladder? I want a telescoping one but now that I saw your ladder folds too. I'm jealous. How do you like it and where can I get one?
Yea... every now and again, I need an A-frame style ladder... This is the one we have: gear.changinglanesrv.com/product/16-5ft-aluminum-telescoping-extension-ladder/
I was watching this and said “that campground looks like Camp Hatteras”, and sure enough it was. That’s one of our fav campground. On your video, great info. But I’m curious if all of your dash gear can be wired to a single power source for an upfitter switch? If so, that would be just simple and easy. Thanks for the info.
I've forgotten about the lights needing to be on for the camera to work, cans here to trouble shoot and not I know why the camera would work when I opened my door but shut off as soon as my door was closed
I know this is an older video now, but I am hoping you can share with me how the wireless backup observation camera is working for you. I much rather go wireless in my new motorhome versus running wires. Also did you eventually get the side cameras and are they worth it? Thanks.
It's been 100% 👍🏼 With the antenna extension, we don't even need the antenna on the monitor to be straight up, so it can stay lowered and out of the way (pointed forward).
I have same visionworks system with 9” screen. It works well but unable to figure out how to have all camera views on screen at same time. I can toggle between views but need to figure out how to have spilt screens.
I have the side cameras, marker light versions. I love them, especially when you're backing blind side, or if there's a car beside you that only you can see, but you REALLY want more than your eyes on.
Great video. I'm thinking about adding a camera to my 5th wheel which is pre-wired for one (not sure if it's to the battery or the running lights/truck). One nice thing about my truck (2020 GMC 2500 HD Denali) is it has cameras in the side mirrors so when you activate a turn signal it shoots down the length of the trailer and shows anything in the blind spot and also gives a good sense of how far behind you another vehicle is in the lane you want. Btw, where was this episode filmed, it looked like a campground we've been to on Hatteras?
If you get the 4th camera glue magnets on the back of it and get a heavy L bracket and put it on top of your tool box to assist you in backing to hitch up. I didn’t know if your ford has the 3rd brake light with camera up high. My duramax doesn’t. So that’s how I can see better. Now if you want better reception the Haloview BT7 ultimate can send a signal up to 900’. Check it out. Thx Chad and Tara
Does anyone make a model that you bring your own monitor to, and it just has a wireless video receiver you can plug into your existing display? My kenwood head unit can take like 4 or 5 extra camera source inputs. Would be nice to just use the big 12.9” screen I already have!
Our camera is powered by a switched 12V source from the camper so we can monitor what's going on from inside the RV at night. Highly recommend, just need to locate a source from inside the camper (or run a new set of wires) and mount a switch. I prefer to solder wires, but that's a skill most don't have.
Hi Chad, Skeeter from Louisiana, we have side marker cameras with our system along with the garage. We like the side marker lights for lane changes and for the backing blind spot. Also since we are new to RVing and towing added safety on the 395.
Personally I regret buying the Vision Works and I do not recommend them. Stick with Furrion if you're prewired. I installed one with 9" monitor and have a 3 second or longer delay in addition to the signal drop out. I see now I need the antenna extension but did not with the Furrion on my last unit, which was a 42 footer. My new Grand Design 337 RLS is much shorter and I get signal drop. Very disappointing. Antenna extension is extra work and unnecessary with a better quality camera system. The side camera install was a nightmare as well. I DO NOT RECOMNED THEM if your current side lights are mounted over the decals. You cannot remove the old without damaging the decals underneath, and the worst of it is the Vision Works do not align the same and don't cover up the same as Furrion. I had to build a metal plate and paint it black to cover up the decal damage. Since this was done within the first month of a new unit, the chances of this working are poor. Side cameras are convenient as it helps with backing especially when solo, and another point of view with passing. But the 3 second delay is on all cameras and the Furrion I had was less than a second.
Ordered the “customer install” wired camera when I ordered my 2023 F250. It also has the TPMS. I did not want multiple screens on my dash, the 12” screen in the dash is enough on the dash.
We have a 35’ Jayco with a rear and side Visionworks camera system. The antenna and monitor is attached to the windscreen. We are wondering if there is a booster for Bluetooth because the rear camera goes frequently goes offline. Any suggestions?
Chad, there was a company out of Canada that made cameras for big rides. They are all 4 corners of the truck and trailer. One scren to get all of them. If there was an problem. GPS will show where you are. Keep 7 days worth
We have a smaller TT and love our Halo rear view camera. Very crisp and clear. We do not have the side cameras. Love it as a rear view mirror too. Since I have a towable, I also have a hitch camera which I use for all my trailers.
Maybe it’s just a matter of getting used to having a camera running as I’m driving but i generally find it distracting. Just like having the GPS or maps going all the time. Especially when it’s on birds eye. Mine only runs with my lights on, which I agree is a good setup.
Why does it really mater? Semi trucks that are longer than you and they don't have them. Besides I consider it distracted driving mater. School buses don't have them and you can't see any closer than about 200 to 300 feet behind you.
I have the Trackform mounting kit (Similar to rammount). I bought a haloview monitor mount that had the proper size ball to use on the AMPS mount arm. Works great and its a good way to keep the dash organized.
I drive a 44' Class A diesel pusher towing a jeep or a trailer and love having my rear view and side view cameras but even with 3 cameras and 6 mirrors a little toyota found and hung out in a teeny tiny blind spot....moral of the story is don't get complacent and turn your head before changing lanes.
I got spoiled really quick to the rear view camera on my DP. The only issue I've got now is that my camera is getting old so acts up and doesn't show a clear image part of the time, but it still allows me to see what's back there, so I couldn't imagine not having it back there.
Great video, Chad. This looks like pretty straightforward install. I like the idea to get power from running lights instead of on board batteries. It would be nice if all accessories used standard mounting fixtures, sure would make life easier. I guess that's a bit of a fantasy. LOL God bless ya'll and stay safe on your travels.
Does tilting the antenna on the camera down toward the tow vehicle help? Did with my furrion because the antenna had a dipole radiation pattern which extended its range perpendicular to the antenna. Leaving it straight up and down will send most of the signal over your truck instead of inside the cab. Good luck and great video!
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I'm so glad you mentioned about the importance of traveling with the headlights on, not for you to see, but to make others aware of you.
We love our vision works back up camera. Our brand new unit the monitor went blank so we called customer service and they replaced it no charge. A year later we broke the antenna on the monitor and called customer service again. We bought a new antenna and they shipped it next day we had it. I can’t speak enough about the great customer service this company provides!
Thats great to hear! Thanks for the feedback!
I wired my camera to a switch by the door so I could use it for a rear security camera while parked as well as a rear view while driving. I put a power plug in the camper to use on the monitor. I wrapped the extra cable around my ac and mounted the antenna on the outside metal of the ac just under the plastic cover to protect it from tree limbs. Works great.
Hi Chad, Nelson here from the Keys. I have the side cameras and although I don't need them to make a lane change, I found that where these cameras shine is when you are backing up blind side. When you loose the side of your trailer in your mirror because of your backup angle, you can just look at your camera and see the entire side of the trailer again. That to me was worth it. I hope this makes sense and helps with your decision.
What Nelson said. We have a 42' Montana and really the only time I use the side cameras is when I am backing in so I can see my blind spot(s). They came in real handy parking at a KOA in Tucson last Christmas trying to park at night.
We just switched from Furrion to the Haloview with the side and rear cameras. We ran ours on permanent 12v with a toggle switch so they can double as our security cameras. I love the record feature, I think that's where the side cameras are great in case we are ever in an accident. Just finished our 1st trip from Fort Myers to Cherokee and it worked flawlessly.
I have the Furrion system and have the side cameras. Love them for blind side backing. Parking the camper by myself (and even with the family) the side cameras make it so much easier and gives you the ability to keep track of what is there. I have my kids help me with setup and I can keep an eye on whoever is on the blind side if I have to move the camper. Huge plus as a safety feature there.
I installed the Haloview Byte Tango 3-camera system on my 41 foot toyhauler. The installation was easy and the quality of the cameras are awesome.
Can't wait for the power protection video. I couldn't help but notice the watchdog box in storage bay.
Hi Chad, I greatly love your video, I didn't use vision works cameras, but I am using the Haloview camera system BTHandy7 on the rear of my caravan, it doesn't require hardwiring the camera due to it is a camera with a battery pack, and it has a perfect view of what's behind me and for hitching up without the need for guidance plus the resolution is so good I can watch butterfly dancing in my garden as the range is very good.
We bought the VisionWorks camera from TechnoRV with a larger monitor than yours. No side-mounted cameras. We had excellent service from VisionWorks when our antennae broke. Monitor has excellent clarity but camera occasionally lags and blinks out. Not sure what to do about that. We have a 36 ft Momentum and 2019 F350. Love your clean-looking dash setup! Thanks for another excellent video. Cheers to you both!
That antenna extension should fix that lag and drop out issue... I'd give them a call, but Techno should be carrying those soon too. 👍🏼
We have a 48’ 5ver and have the side cameras on the forward marker lights. We boondock a lot and find them very useful for going down the sometimes narrow dirt/gravel roads to safely gauge the distance off the trees and bushes in addition to utilizing the mirrors. Also, when going down a 2 lane road, I find it vereeee useful to assist in staying as far right as safely possible to avoid having the coach on, or crossing into the other lane while bending or turning left on the winding roads to avoid a potential mishap with a vehicle traveling in the other direction. Me, being in the drivers seat can be a bit deceptive on actually how close you actually are to the edge of the road - it seems closer. So, knowing that you can get over to the right a couple more feet or so, is a game changer on those roads. Of course, I use my mirrors, but the extra set of eyes (cameras) are gooood peace of mind!!
👍😃🍻
We have Haloview system with the side marker cameras. The side views have come in handy in Dallas and El Paso traffic as well as the Port Aransas TX ferry. Also, I chose to power my cameras only with the 7 way pig tail plugged into the tow vehicle. Just had to add a blocking diode between the gen start/brake controller batt in the front compartment. We have a 397th similar to your old rig
I have side cameras that I never use. With the new truck, I am just going to use the backup like you did.
The side mounted cameras are really a plus when backing the trailer also they help cover the blind spots. I drove an ambulance that had side, rear, and front mounted cameras the side and rear cameras were a big help in covering blind spots . Especially near the top in being able to see tree limbs and low hanging wires that were not visible in the mirrors. I am planning to put side and rear cameras on my work and play that I am building. Thanks for the tip on wiring them to the marker lights.
Chad, we our love cameras. We have rear and side marker cameras and a truck bed camera for hitching up our Reese goosebox hitch. We love having side marker cameras!
Seems like my Haloview Byte Tango way better than Visionwork in picture quality.
Awesome video! We have the HaloView backup camera as well as the side cameras. While driving we only use the side cameras. Really makes it a better driving experience.
Chad, I’ve got the Furrion side marker cams. I hardly use them but they can be wired so that when you hit the left blinker, the display will automatically switch to the left marker light… and same for the right blinker. I agree with you though about the side mirrors. They’re great on the Ford. If I’m parking the RV by myself or I’m somewhere without the wife to help guide me… I’ll use the side marker cams. So they’re not bad to have just in case but not necessary by any stretch of the imagination.
I appreciate your instructions in this video, Im installing a back up an RV back up camera and monitor. Very helpful! I don't have a furrow system like yours but I think I got it figured out. I will be using my running lights while driving.
Hey Chad,
We bought the Furrion camera
System for our 44 fr fifth wheel with rear and side cameras. Truthfully, I only use the rear cam. The mirrors do a good job reaching the sides.
I had the side marker lights on my travel trailer when I had my F150 and they were very helpful, but since I have upgraded the tow rig to a F350, I didn't get the side marker cameras for the new 5th wheel, just the rear camera. I find the convex mirrors do the same job that the cameras did. In backing by yourself or even with a helper they did help immensely. Just wish the cameras could all be tied into the Ford monitor so it would be one less thing on the dash.
Thanks for the video. We went with the Gen2 Vision Works camera that wires directly into the Furrion pre-mount using a headset looking jack. It's also a bit smaller and has a nice look to it. We went with the 7" screen as we decided to also add the side marker cameras. I installed the rear camera myself but since we had an appointment with the dealer for something else, we're going to have them install the side marker cameras and the roof antenna.
We also went with the Bullet Mounting Solutions dash mount system for our GMC to mount our screens (TPMS, RV GPS, and VisionWorks)
That camera's picture quality looks nice! You asked about the side marker light cameras... I installed them on our 35' Reflection and I have not found them useful once. The F350 truck mirrors totally cover it while driving like you said, and when you're trying to back in they don't have a good angle to help you much.
I have the Furrion system on my rig and the side markers on it are pretty much useless for backing because they aren't adjustable for angle. They point too far out and don't include much (if any) of the side of the trailer in the image. The only real use I have for them is if I need a quick view of the blind side of the trailer on a back in.
I recommend Haloview BT7, the side camera can adjust the angle.
I have the Furion system with the two side camera and the rear. I really get value out of the side cameras. I like them for a second view with lane changes and when parking it gives a closer view than my concave/convex mirror. My system also lets me take the monitor inside the RV and use it as a security monitor while at a stop.
Thanks for the feedback! 😊 We might have to try the side cameras out.
I have side markers to lovem
Sorry for the late comment on the 2022 Grand Design National Rally. We just want to thank you for being so nice to us when we met you at the rally. We’ve been rving for over 18 years but always enjoy your videos. This year we are off to visit our 49th state, Alaska. Do you have any plans to travel there?
We'll be at the rally again this year, if you're attending. No RV plans for Alaska yet, but we're going there via cruise ship this summer.. 😀
We have the GD2979RL and decided to go with the side marker cameras on this our 6th Rv. These have really been a game changer for us. Not only does it make changing lanes safer and backing in tight spots easier, but I find it helps greatly when making tight turns in gas stations and parking areas. They are well worth the addition, especially on a longer rig. Love your videos!
Agreed
Are these marker light camera wired in junction to the lights.
I have the side cameras and have never used them. I thought they’d be useful when backing but the mirrors are better. The rear view is great and works for all things I’ve needed - with only 18 months fulltime experience
We have both the rear camera and the side cameras. Our side view mirrors do not extend that far out so having the cameras on the side is a big plus for us.
Great video as always Chad! Really clear and educational….👍🏼
I have the VisionWorks camera system, recommended by TechnoRV. I have the rear observation camera, and the side marker cameras. It’s amazing, especially when backing up by myself!
Great review! I definitely like the side mirrors for backing up as I usually lose the area behind the RV when the truck is at angle; especially the opposite side.
Thanks Chad for the video of that camera system , as I was just about to order it, am glad to see your review and thanks for the discount code!!
We have the Furrion with the side markers and to be honest don't use the side camers very often. Like you, we monitor the rear while driving down the road.
On the monitor for our rig, I use small bungee cords to attach it to the rear view mirror. This does leave a wire hanging down from the mirror to where is plugs into the cigar lighter on top of the dash, but so far that hasn’t been a big deal for me. I’m sure it could be wired into some other 12V that would be in the headliner, for example. (At any rate, when most folks note I am bungee cording the monitor to the mirror, they know why the wire hanging down doesn’t bother me. They are small bungee cords and are barely noticeable!)
Interesting... you're used to looking there so that makes sense.. 👍🏼
One hundred percent agree with rear view camera wired into marker lights, by the way. New Minnie Winnie had the camera wired into the 12V trailer. Changed it right away.
That's alot of screens on your dash. Maybe its time to look into Garmin and cell phone mirroring for your truck's display.
well i bought a tpms that you recommended(love it!), i've been thinking about a rear camera so this video is perfectly timed, again
We have a much smaller rig than yours and while it is certainly nice to have a camera for backing up, we use our camera mostly as an electronic rear view mirror. It is always great when you can see what is directly behind you while on the road!
I loved the video and had the haloview 7" monitor on top of my dash. However, I am now using the Ford auxiliary camera on the rear of the 5th wheel to see it on the huge Ford 12" oem monitor, so no more additional screens for me. My haloview wireless camera froze up or went dark from time to time. You should contact Ford to see if they would sponsor a camera you could review for them!
I have seen two rear camera set ups where one straight out for driving and one looking down for backing. I'm interested in getting a four camera setup for our unit.
My brother was talking about placing a camera to watch the trailer tires, might catch side views also. Good vid., thanks.
I bought the furrion 3 camera system about 2 years ago. It only really came in handy a few times. The majority of the time it was annoying. If I get another camera I'll only use the backup camera.
My vision works cut out more than my furrion, but I didn’t have the antenna cable. The big problem for me was the view angle was so much smaller than the furrion. I want to be able to see the bumper of the trailer for backing up and see cars behind me too. The vision works just was to “zoomed” in for that. But the image quality when it worked was much better than the furrion.
Good explanation! Thanks!
Chad I love when you geek out on your tech!! So enthusiastic about improvements on your rig!! Safety first!!
hey all. i purchased the visionworks from TechnoRV a couple years ago. Very disappointed. The video was very choppy. Called TechnoRV and their service was great. Put me in touch with VW directly and received the antennae extension. It did help a little, but it is still choppy. I am not sure i will get the side marker cameras which was my final goal.
So cool this camera is.
Did you look at the ford RV camera that is suppose to hook into the 360 trailer assist?
Yes.. but it's not wireless and looks like a pain to wire...
Another great video. And yes, TechnoRV is awesome. Thanks.
Chad,
1. VisionWorks has a ram mount compatible adpter for mounting.
2. I, too bought this system with 7” monitor from TechnoRv. I hope you have better reception than I have.
Let me add some context: Both TechnoRV and the VisionWorks team have been great to work with. I have a 2020 F-350 and a Solitude 375RES (41+ feet long). I have yet to get a great signal from teh rear view camera. Tried better antennas, a couple different antenna extenders, monitors with improved shielding. The video from my rear camera still lags 3-5 seconds behind the actuak movement of the trailer and the video drops from time to time. The sideview cameras and a 4th camera I have for montoring the hitch for now) all work great with no reception issues. Watching your video, I see that they have an even longer antenna extender than the one they sent me…mine only gets me up to the forward AC unit.
I am not ready to give up-the VisionWorks team has been great to work with and the alternate monitors, antennas and extenders were all sent to me at no cost. I am reaching out to them about a longer extender and, since it is the only thing I have not tried, the 7-pin adapter you mentioned in the off chance that the power to the rear camera is just not sufficient.
Sorry for the long message-thanks for another great video! Dan
As a follow up, I did speak with Cody at VisionWorks. They are sending me a longer antenna extender. While I have had some challenges getting the performance I want, the support from VisionWorks and TechnoRV has been spectacular! I expect to get this system working properly once I receive the new extender.
Glad to hear their support has been good. I hope the longer antenna extension works.. maybe the other one is too close to the AC?
@@ChangingLanes possibly. I first tried it a little further away, in front of the bathroom skylight which kept it a little further back from the leading edge if the trailer. It helped a little moving forward , but next to the AC unit. The AC unit also provides a little protection from branches.
We have this system as well as the stock system on our 2017 Newmar motorhome. The rear cam is 1000000% better than the Voyager rear camera and the best thing is that all the VisionWorks cameras are always on. We also have the side cameras from Visionworks. The Voyagers change when you use your turn signals so I can’t see what my TOAD is doing if I put my turn signal on when I turn. The side cameras are most valuable for checking the “cut point” when I am backing up and I have to believe they’d be even more valuable with a 5th wheel.
Thanks for the feedback... I think we may try the side cameras at some point. 😊
Thanks for your videos. My Furrion I made a bracket that fits over my rear view mirror and my Furrion monitor is on my rear view mirror. Anyway if the camera manufacturer can make their monitor fit onto the rear view mirror since the rear view is basically dead once the trailer is hitched
We bought the side cameras for the Furrion system and never use them. Would not waste the money again if I had to do it over.
We have the haloview 7 with marker light cameras, Also needed the repeater for the rear camera. side marker cameras are nice to have. another one of those things that you don't know what you don't see till you see it. We pull a 42 foot toyhauler fifth wheel with our ram. A lot of times off roads we probably shouldn't, but can see down the sides with out turning to look at the mirror in tight situations.
The performance of our Furrion on our Imagine is substandard, the display is way too dim & when I hit the button to split the screen to show 3 or 4 camera views, it does so for 1/4 second and then goes back to just a single view. It has the extra wiring to go to the side camera view in a motorhome, but it is not practical in a pickup truck, and having to hit the button to go to the side marker cameras manually is not very practical either. Lazy Days did not have many practical tips to solve our issues with it, and neither did the GD helpline. I miss the old Voyager camera we had on our Lance. I may consider converting over to something better. Thanks for the visuals. Cheers, Davey - KU9L
I love having my rearview camera on my motorhome on all the time so I can see the Honda pilot being flat towed behind me. And as you say, passing someone you can easily see that you’re completely clear and safe to move back over. Those type of connectors you used I always just throw in the trash if they come with something I bought. L O L.
We have the furrion camera but the vision works monitor is really clear!
Chad, the question I have is do you leave your monitors mounted on your dash at all times or do you remove them if you take the truck to the store or sightseeing? Thank you. We watch your videos and learn a lot every time.
I have a Visionworks camera from Techno RV. Works great. The camera runs off trailer power that is pre wired . There is a switch on the control panel to turn camera power on/off on my Alliance 5th wheel.
That's awesome that they put a switch in! 👍🏼
Great video, thanks for sharing.
I follow you guys and you actually asked a question that I’m wondering? How many folks are using the side marker cameras? I am interested in buying a full 4 camera setup….but also visionworks vs Furrion? The side markers from furrion are antenna less vs having the antennas…..
Ugh I thought you would be doing a video on Wilmington NC this week 😢. We are headed there at the end of June to see our Navy son. We were hoping for a video tour with your always excellent suggestions.
Wilmington should be out in 2 weeks.. 😊
I like my side cameras since I record all of my camera footage. If anyone ever runs into the side of my 37 foot camper (happened to my friend), the side camera will record that.
Really Great video...Thx...GB
Why did you not use the FORD camera and TPMS?? I plan on installing them on my 2023 F250 this summer. I don’t want all of those extra screens on my dash.
Thanks for the video! I, too, have a VisionWorks rearview camera (no side cameras). We have a 26ft GD trailer with an aluminum frame.
I've been very frustrated with the lag and freezes. TechnoRV put me in touch with WV who was extremely supportive. They sent me the extension cable which I have not yet put on. Besides not liking the aesthetics, I worry about the cable blowing around and causing wear on the roof (or itself). I was hoping to avoid taping down the entire cable - especially if future maintenance was required.
What has your experience been with how the cable has weathered the travel so far?
On our class A, we had a rear view camera and side view cameras. When we turned on a signal, half the screen was that side camera displayed. That was awesome because our factory mirrors didn't have convex mirrors. Worked great. On our new fifth wheel, we have only the rear. The ford mirrors do a great job of showing me the sides. I really only use the rear camera for backing up.
Love all the technically stuff - waiting for a self driving RV next lol!
I had a connection issue with my new Furrion Vision S camera. Worked fine while hard wired, but no signal from the back of fifth wheel. Furrion recommended a power management dongle that goes between 7 pin of trailer and truck. Worked perfectly. Issue is computer power management of newer trucks does not deliver the necessary power to the camera.
Chad...spool up the extra wire...take cover off AC unit and zip tie it to the AC units metal frame, This will keep it under the AC cover and out of the way
Great stuff. I am looking for a new camera for our 30' Airstream as well as one for the truck camper which is totally enclosed. Visonworks looks great. Funny hopw I can't stop thinking about your ladder, though. Who makes your ladder? I want a telescoping one but now that I saw your ladder folds too. I'm jealous. How do you like it and where can I get one?
Yea... every now and again, I need an A-frame style ladder... This is the one we have: gear.changinglanesrv.com/product/16-5ft-aluminum-telescoping-extension-ladder/
Thanks Chad ... I just received my camera this week ... Techno RV is great.
I was watching this and said “that campground looks like Camp Hatteras”, and sure enough it was. That’s one of our fav campground. On your video, great info. But I’m curious if all of your dash gear can be wired to a single power source for an upfitter switch? If so, that would be just simple and easy. Thanks for the info.
I'm sure you can add more than one device to a single switch as long as you don't exceed the rated current for the circuit..
I've forgotten about the lights needing to be on for the camera to work, cans here to trouble shoot and not I know why the camera would work when I opened my door but shut off as soon as my door was closed
I know this is an older video now, but I am hoping you can share with me how the wireless backup observation camera is working for you. I much rather go wireless in my new motorhome versus running wires. Also did you eventually get the side cameras and are they worth it? Thanks.
It's been 100% 👍🏼 With the antenna extension, we don't even need the antenna on the monitor to be straight up, so it can stay lowered and out of the way (pointed forward).
I have same visionworks system with 9” screen. It works well but unable to figure out how to have all camera views on screen at same time. I can toggle between views but need to figure out how to have spilt screens.
See the screens at 16:16... 👍🏼
I would not know what to do without my camera. Thanks for sharing it with us
How?
I have the side cameras, marker light versions. I love them, especially when you're backing blind side, or if there's a car beside you that only you can see, but you REALLY want more than your eyes on.
Great video. I'm thinking about adding a camera to my 5th wheel which is pre-wired for one (not sure if it's to the battery or the running lights/truck). One nice thing about my truck (2020 GMC 2500 HD Denali) is it has cameras in the side mirrors so when you activate a turn signal it shoots down the length of the trailer and shows anything in the blind spot and also gives a good sense of how far behind you another vehicle is in the lane you want. Btw, where was this episode filmed, it looked like a campground we've been to on Hatteras?
Bingo! Camp Hatteras.... 😎
@@ChangingLanes We were at Camp Hatteras in April this year. Had terrific weather and really enjoyed the area.
If you get the 4th camera glue magnets on the back of it and get a heavy L bracket and put it on top of your tool box to assist you in backing to hitch up. I didn’t know if your ford has the 3rd brake light with camera up high. My duramax doesn’t. So that’s how I can see better. Now if you want better reception the Haloview BT7 ultimate can send a signal up to 900’. Check it out. Thx Chad and Tara
Great idea! We do have the bed camera, but it's still difficult to see and judge alignment when hitching.
Does anyone make a model that you bring your own monitor to, and it just has a wireless video receiver you can plug into your existing display? My kenwood head unit can take like 4 or 5 extra camera source inputs. Would be nice to just use the big 12.9” screen I already have!
Fellow TH-camr here... cant thank you enough for this video. Amen to Ram balls!
Our camera is powered by a switched 12V source from the camper so we can monitor what's going on from inside the RV at night. Highly recommend, just need to locate a source from inside the camper (or run a new set of wires) and mount a switch. I prefer to solder wires, but that's a skill most don't have.
Love our side cameras they help blind spots when backing.
Hi Chad, Skeeter from Louisiana, we have side marker cameras with our system along with the garage. We like the side marker lights for lane changes and for the backing blind spot. Also since we are new to RVing and towing added safety on the 395.
Personally I regret buying the Vision Works and I do not recommend them. Stick with Furrion if you're prewired. I installed one with 9" monitor and have a 3 second or longer delay in addition to the signal drop out. I see now I need the antenna extension but did not with the Furrion on my last unit, which was a 42 footer. My new Grand Design 337 RLS is much shorter and I get signal drop. Very disappointing. Antenna extension is extra work and unnecessary with a better quality camera system. The side camera install was a nightmare as well. I DO NOT RECOMNED THEM if your current side lights are mounted over the decals. You cannot remove the old without damaging the decals underneath, and the worst of it is the Vision Works do not align the same and don't cover up the same as Furrion. I had to build a metal plate and paint it black to cover up the decal damage. Since this was done within the first month of a new unit, the chances of this working are poor. Side cameras are convenient as it helps with backing especially when solo, and another point of view with passing. But the 3 second delay is on all cameras and the Furrion I had was less than a second.
If you carry a roll of Eternabond tape, You could use strips of that to hold the wires on the roof.
Ordered the “customer install” wired camera when I ordered my 2023 F250. It also has the TPMS. I did not want multiple screens on my dash, the 12” screen in the dash is enough on the dash.
We have a 35’ Jayco with a rear and side Visionworks camera system. The antenna and monitor is attached to the windscreen. We are wondering if there is a booster for Bluetooth because the rear camera goes frequently goes offline. Any suggestions?
Chad, there was a company out of Canada that made cameras for big rides. They are all 4 corners of the truck and trailer. One scren to get all of them. If there was an problem. GPS will show where you are. Keep 7 days worth
We have a smaller TT and love our Halo rear view camera. Very crisp and clear. We do not have the side cameras. Love it as a rear view mirror too. Since I have a towable, I also have a hitch camera which I use for all my trailers.
Maybe it’s just a matter of getting used to having a camera running as I’m driving but i generally find it distracting. Just like having the GPS or maps going all the time. Especially when it’s on birds eye. Mine only runs with my lights on, which I agree is a good setup.
Great video. My Fussion back-up camera just went cloudy/blurry on our most recent trip; therefore, a change (update or replacement) is in order.
Why does it really mater? Semi trucks that are longer than you and they don't have them. Besides I consider it distracted driving mater. School buses don't have them and you can't see any closer than about 200 to 300 feet behind you.
Hi Chad… do you have any recommendations for a dash cam?
Yes! We have this one: gear.changinglanesrv.com/product/vantrue-n2s/
I have the Trackform mounting kit (Similar to rammount). I bought a haloview monitor mount that had the proper size ball to use on the AMPS mount arm. Works great and its a good way to keep the dash organized.
Great Review. I have a haloview camera like it.
I drive a 44' Class A diesel pusher towing a jeep or a trailer and love having my rear view and side view cameras but even with 3 cameras and 6 mirrors a little toyota found and hung out in a teeny tiny blind spot....moral of the story is don't get complacent and turn your head before changing lanes.
I got spoiled really quick to the rear view camera on my DP. The only issue I've got now is that my camera is getting old so acts up and doesn't show a clear image part of the time, but it still allows me to see what's back there, so I couldn't imagine not having it back there.
Great video, Chad. This looks like pretty straightforward install. I like the idea to get power from running lights instead of on board batteries.
It would be nice if all accessories used standard mounting fixtures, sure would make life easier. I guess that's a bit of a fantasy. LOL
God bless ya'll and stay safe on your travels.
Does tilting the antenna on the camera down toward the tow vehicle help? Did with my furrion because the antenna had a dipole radiation pattern which extended its range perpendicular to the antenna. Leaving it straight up and down will send most of the signal over your truck instead of inside the cab. Good luck and great video!