[carryingforks]

I'm looking for an aftermarket rearview camera with a screen that attaches to the existing rearview mirror. Does anyone here have any recommendations for one? The van is tall enough that I already have issue with what I can see out the rearview mirror so I'd like some real-world recommendations.

The only reason I ask is that the reviews of the ones I see on Amazon are conflicting. Based on the reliability of the reviews on that site overall, I'd like to find out if there are any that people here would recommend since you are all a much more reliable and personally motivated group. I can't trust the reviews on that site any more.

Could you recommend one? Is there another place I should be looking that's more reliable?

Thank you!

 

[Tijoe]

I am sure that someone will reccomend a specific one that they purchased. In the mean time...
First possability: Since your van is a 2016, you will want to purchase a 3rd light camera tail light. I recommend looking for one that has a 2MP AHD camera. (Ebay or Amazon) These are higher definition analog high definition digital cameras. You will then have to route the 4-pin harness up to the front of the van to the mirror area. Then you will have to determine where to tap into for the power for the rear view mirror monitor.
Next choice is to find a decent quality clip on mirror monitor. Almost all of them will have a back-up camera input and a front view camera may be built into it.

Second route: Purchase a wireless camera and screw it somewhere on the back/top of your van. If you go this route, then you need a receiver for the camera transmission and plug its output into the clip on rear view mirror monitor. Like this:

Wireless RV Backup Camera with Rear View Mirror Monitor

Best seller 7-Inch Mirror monitor and Wireless (up to 65Ft) 120° Box Backup Camera with automatic military grade night vision. On Sale Today!

www.tadibrothers.com

 

[Vanpackr]

I hate to be that guy but I think you can benefit from this thread. I've just not gotten around to doing a write-up on mine from VANTOP which is discussed at length.

Full time rear view camera

More images of the VanTop unit I am collecting for a future writeup.

cutt.ly

 

[sportcoupe]

VANTOP dash cam all day long.

 

[carryingforks]

Thank you for the replies. VanTop it is

Sorry for my lack of search before posting. I blame the beers.

 

[AzB]

Another vote for Vantop.

 

[Tijoe]

I vote for starting a project that keeps growing in scope, day after day, where one enhancement leads to many more, where a daisy chain effect takes over, and you create projects that will last all winter!
1. Put in a large screen 12.8" head unit that integrated the OEM rear door camera.
2. Build swing out bike/cargo racks that block the view of the OEM rear camera.
3. Decide to put in a 3rd light camera on top of the van.
4. Heck, might as well put cameras all around the van.
5. With so many cameras, install a DVR that leads to additional power requirements in the overhead console area.
6. Decide that it fits my needs better to install a larger 10.1" Android head unit where the rear view mirror goes, and use it primarily as the rear view mirror with the 3rd light camera.
7. I hated the OEM upper console, so decide to design a new one and create an even larger project that will slow down installation and completion of the DVR camera project.
8. In the mean time add up all my additional power requirements to run the new accessories/camera system and realize that the OEM AGM batteries are starting batteries and wont handle the deep cycle discharge I need.
9. Add shore power with several 120VAC outlets and a main battery trickle charger while I am at it.
10. Now I want to add a couple of deep cycle batteries, but find out that I don't have space under my passenger seats, so now I will have to fabricate an external battery box that fits under the floorboards somewhere on the chassis.
11. Then you start thinking how does couple of $200 projects quickly turn into a $3,000 project, along with hundred of man hours.

Wait, probably better to purchasce the Vantop and be done with it...

But OTOH. My set-up does look cool and does provide great viewing/visibility

 

[carryingforks]

7. I hated the OEM upper console, so decide to design a new one and create an even larger project that will slow down installation and completion of the DVR camera project.

I watched a video last night of a vanlife couple in Czech Republic that 3D printed some new dash panels. I already wanted a 3D printer, might as well slow my build down too! 😂

 

[Vanpackr]

a project that keeps growing in scope, day after day, where one enhancement leads to many more, where a daisy chain effect takes over, and you create projects that will last all winter!

Perfect strategy for a YouTube channel.