Using K-Source Rearview Camera System # KSVS-8 Connected to In-Dash Screen on 2013 Ram 1500
Question:
My truck is a 2013 Dodge RAM half-ton with 4 doors. On it I have a Northstar 650 pop-up type camper. Poor vision to the back makes me a bit nervous. Can I install a camera to show me whats behind me and utilize the screen in my trucks dash that also serves as my radio and telephone screen? Its an Express, so not a lot of bells and whistles. I know fancier trucks have rear view cameras built into the tailgate handle, but that wont work for me because I take my tailgate off to slide my camper in…Does Dodge typically run the wiring I would need for a rear-view camera in these basic models? I would also want the camera to show me whats behind me at all times, not just when I put the truck in reverse. The screen in my dash is about 2 1/2 x 4 1/2 and is used for cell phone management and AM/FM/Serius radio. Are there enough details here to let me know what camera to buy and would I need additional cable. The truck bed is 64inch long. Thanks for your help.
asked by: Mike R
Expert Reply:
If the on-dash screen on your Ram has input jacks, and you could somehow modify the jacks on the K-Source camera so that they are compatible, there's always a chance it might work. However, by altering or splicing the wiring, you'd be opting out of any warranty coverage. The kit is designed to work using the rearview mirror as the monitor, and I nor K-Source can recommend modifying it.
I'd recommend checking with your Dodge dealer for the camera and associated cables, although you'd need to find a way to provide switched power to the camera instead of it turning on with the reverse light circuit. You'd also need to fabricate a way of mounting the camera since you won't have a tailgate.
Using an existing system like the Swift Hitch # SH02DIGITAL might be a better alternative. You can switch the camera on as you wish, and wouldn't need to cut or splice into anything.
Products Referenced in This Question
Swift Hitch Digital Wireless Hitch Alignment Camera and Monitor - Night Vision - 8-Hr Camera Battery
- Backup Camera
- Hitch Alignment Camera Systems
- Wireless Signal
- Hand-Held Monitor
- 2.5 Inch Display
- Swift Hitch
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