Back up camera install in a '06 ?

[Sid in Sarasota]

Hello all... This past Sat. eve I bought my Sport Edition 4Runner and just love it.
I want to install a VR3 wireless backup camera and could use some advice. The screen will fit into the flip down sunglass holder in the overhead console. I understand the console is removed by pulling down on the front edge,where I hope to get power and ground from the map light area. An alternative location would be to the left of the steering column next to the transfer case lock-up switch, getting power from the fuse block.
For the camera, I want to mount it on the spoiler pointing down about at a 45 degree angle for trailer hook-up and parking. I could get back-up light power for the camera from the vehicle's trailer socket or the BU bulb wiring.
Would any of these schemes work?
How hard is it to route the wire internally to the spoiler?
Any tips would be greatly appreciated.
I look forward to gaining how-to knowledge from this site and want to thank those who have contributed to the forum.
I also plan to install an XM receiver but I'm sure that has been covered already.
TIA

 

[gordy]

Sid in Sarasota,

It is not hard to get a wire in and through the spoiler. It is very open. It is a little tricky to get the wire inside the truck where the rubber grommet between the tailgate and the truck is located. What you want to do is very doable and if you take your time it should be a pretty straight forward. I installed my XM antenna on the top of the spoiler and ran the wire into the truck. Not to hard

I would focus on getting power and reverse trigger for the camera up front under the drivers knee bolster. All wires are there and it gives a central point to run the wires for the display

When removing the spoiler, remove the top bolt on each side. Once these are removed, push up on the spoiler with the tailgate is closed. It will pop right off.

 

[Falkon]

Hey Sid,

Did you get around to doing this installation? Please post some pics.

 

[tarheeltp17]

I have to suggest against doing this setup.

Yes, it is cheap. And yes it works... barely.

I have installed one and 10 minutes later I was removing the customers product for an additional charge so they could return it to wal-mart.

Save you money... because you'll hate this thing. The screen cuts in and out and even when its working its like you are watching a tv channel that barely picks up. The screen is fuzzy and ugly. It's a good concept with a crappy result.

Trust me... don't waste your time.

 

[Sid in Sarasota]

Hello all...
I ended up using industrial strength velcro to attach the camera underneath the spoiler just ahead of the stop light. I sandwiched in a wedge (supplied with the unit) to get the proper view from the hitch ball rearwards. Using nylon ties and tucking it in here and there, I ran the camera cord down the left side of the jamb weatherstrip and through an existing (drain?) hole in front of the lift gate latch. WallyWorld sells a 7 way round connector that has both 4 and 5 wire flat output. The 5th wire is for backup lights, so I used that to supply the hot for the camera. My trailers use the 4 wire flat connection, so I end up with a camera that only works when I'm in reverse.

The screen is still banging around in the ashtray area plugged into a power outlet, so i pick up security camera transmissions as I drive by gas station and retail stores. The camera is not HD, and viewing angle makes a big difference, but I think it does the job, both backing up to park as well as to a trailer hitch. There are several contrast settings you may want to play with for the screen, especially at night. I'm happy with it, YMMV.


As soon as I get up enough nerve to pry off the plastic overhead console surround to get 12V off the overhead lights for the screen power, I'll probably mount the screen above the rearview mirror. That will allow easy switching from mirror to screen view whilst backing, instead of using the crunch method!

Also, you can power the screen from the rear power outlet while using a 9V battery for the camera so you can check out the view from the rear while planning the location and angles. If it looks like you wont like it, return it.

 

[Falkon]

tarheeltp17,

I appreciate your insight here, good advice I'd say.

I am actually on the lookout for a system that could handle both NAV display and a backup camera. You see, I have a 2004 Limited and I so much love the 6disc JBL system so taking it out is not an option at this point.

 

[tarheeltp17]

6 disc in dash changers are a cool idea but screw up alllllll the time. I've replaced well over 200 factory in dash 6 disc changers in less than 6 months. Pioneer took a stab at it last year with the AVH-P6800DVD, but because of numerous problems, discontinued it. Also, as more poeple go to ipods and other Mp3 players, the need for multidisc changers will drastically drop.

But, as long as its working thats cool. The only way you're gonna get nav and rear view is to replace the radio, or to put some external screen in which can get fairly expensive for a decent unit.

 

[Falkon]

6 disc in dash changers are a cool idea but screw up alllllll the time. I've replaced well over 200 factory in dash 6 disc changers in less than 6 months.

Wa-ooh!!! that's some huge statistics and hopefully are not Toyota's. Mine is still great and never had a single problem with it.