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Adding a rear camera to a hitch cargo carrier

8.3K views 18 replies 6 participants last post by  Phil Indeblanc  
#1 · (Edited)
Hi All,
I am going to purchase a Stowaway Max Cargo carrier (https://www.stowaway2.com/max-cargo-carrier-black) for my 2018 Highlander XLE. The unit plugs into the 4 pin connector, allowing tail lights to work on the carrier as well as illuminating a license plate holder on the carrier. Unfortunately, the unit covers the Highlander’s backup camera. I am considering purchasing a back-up camera to connect to the license plate holder and wonder if I can 1) easily tap into the existing display? 2) add a display with a wireless connection to the camera? 3) use one of the leads and ground from the wires coming from the 4 pin connector into the cargo box to power the camera?

(I also have a round 7 pin connector.).

Does anyone have any recommendations for products or installation?

Thank You in advance for your assistance.
 
#5 · (Edited)
$800+ Wow!
I do like the idea of "security, but that is a hefty price! I can see it if you use this very often, but....

The option i went with, and works for my needs, and certainly not everyones....
I got a Curt Aluminum Cargo rack. Then I got a weatherproof thick liner that has a zipper you can lock up. (A box cutter with a few slices can open it).
But, this gives me lots of room, and is just below, sitting lower than the camera with it full. Keep in mind, tongue weight. So I put bulky light, and not so valuable items in the cargo rack.
Cargo rack is very light weight and stores almost flat. It installs super easy 1 person. The liner stores flat and folds away, AND can be carried into the cabin or whereever you want.
The Curt rack is about $50 or maybe 100, I forget. (lookfor my link about it and photos), the liner is about $50.

So the PROS:
Lightweight
1 person install
Stores flat
More cuft for storage
can be used without liner for trash on way out of camp sites, etc.
Can remove liner to secure location.(this would still require 2 people).
Folds up and away on the hitch/ more room for parking needs, and general use convenience.
Price

Just mentioning an option, if it might apply.
 
#6 ·
$800+ Wow!
I do like the idea of "security, but that is a hefty price! I can see it if you use this very often, but....

The option i went with, and works for my needs, and certainly not everyones....
I got a Curt Aluminum Cargo rack. Then I got a weatherproof thick liner that has a zipper you can lock up. (A box cutter with a few slices can open it).
But, this gives me lots of room, and is just below, sitting lower than the camera with it full. Keep in mind, tongue weight. So I put bulky light, and not so valuable items in the cargo rack.
Cargo rack is very light weight and stores almost flat. It installs super easy 1 person. The liner stores flat and folds away, AND can be carried into the cabin or whereever you want.
The Curt rack is about $50 or maybe 100, I forget. (lookfor my link about it and photos), the liner is about $50.

So the PROS:
Lightweight
1 person install
Stores flat
More cuft for storage
can be used without liner for trash on way out of camp sites, etc.
Can remove liner to secure location.(this would still require 2 people).
Price

Just mentioning an option, if it might apply.
Thanks. I will check out the products you are using. Which cargo liner did you choose?
 
#8 ·
[ame]https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002M3P828/ref=oh_aui_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1[/ame]

Used the bag more than a dozen times, no issues, no rips, no theft attempts, and kept things dry in heavy rain.

[ame]https://www.amazon.com/CURT-18100-Tray-Style-Cargo-Carrier/dp/B004QEKG8C/ref=sr_1_15?keywords=curt+hitch+rack&qid=1554077166&s=gateway&sr=8-15[/ame]
 
#10 ·
I checked out the product on Amazon and also etrailer.com. It’s very light compared to steel products and it is a great price point. I think you won me over! Do you need to have signal/break lights on it? And if it folds up on your 2014 without a problem, I’m OK. What a deal. Thanks Phil!
 
#11 ·
Yes, very light weight but strong where needed (Another PRO, this that it allows more hitch tongue weight from cargo, not the rack!)

I purchased reflectors and put them all around the rack parameter walls. I have yet to need any lights. I think that is for something like a trailer, maybe there are laws for having something sticking out past 5 feet or whatever it is, but I doubt they would sell it without such a notice for use.
I got the tape on kind and a few plastic reflectors that slip on the edge of the rack sides.

Yes, it folds up with no issues. When it is up, It does cover the plate, but behind the see through mesh.
I have yet to be pulled over the few times I have driven with it up.
*** Keep in mind, NOT to open ANY cargo rack with the rear up or loaded.
I would strongly recommend to disable the auto hatch open feature while having a rack or bike carrier etc installed.
( it would be such a easy thing to forget and open). Maybe even have something soft put on the areas of contact ?...in case you do.

Well, I'm glad you like it.
You really have to consider a bit of luck and where you visit with a cargo rack and things in it.
If someone wants to steel something. they will do it. Its all a time factor for me. Not too long to undo those small locks. Heck, a Schlage Level2 deadbolt is undone in less than 10 seconds!
We have stopped for food and restrooms and such, and with either parking it, backed up into the store so it is in site, or using bulky items, even with someone cutting open the material, they will see chairs, clothes, blanket, or a inflatable mattress or cooler. ...I doubt someone is gonna touch it. But...It can happen. So I pack according. And if someone steels the blankets...Honestly, I am glad they got it, if they are in such a need. I'd be upset, but seriously, there are some folks in serious needs.

Btw, you can place any type of box that is secure on the rack if needed. Hope it works out for you, and let us know if you have questions. (Keep the tongue weight max of 500# in mind. And that DOESN'T mean to load it to 500#. That would include a hard bump that would multiply that load)
 
#18 ·
Well, I ordered the aluminum Curt foldable hitch carrier from etrailer with their recommended soft shell carrier and receiver lock:
1 Curt 19x60 Cargo Carrier - 2 Hitch - Fold - Alum
1 Anti-rattle Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock For 2" Hitches
1 Curt Cargo Bag For Hitch Mounted Cargo Carrier - 15 Cu Ft

Delivery should be today.

Thank you for the time you spent making a legitimate case for going this route. I’ll comment again on the setup and function of the hitch, etc. I’ll buy some reflectors for the hitch or use reflective tape, maybe even LED lights as I see the need. BTW: Any quick suggestions for turning off the “auto” function of the hatch?
 
#12 ·
I just installed an Amazon rear view camera on our 1992 van.
[ame]https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B075R8M64W/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1[/ame]

How nice to have both wireless and wired video connectors. I’m using the wireless in my 1992 GM van with the camera inside, aimed through a rear door window. I like the coloured lines indicating path and distance when backing up. The video is not very clear, perhaps due to reflections from the window. Taping over the camera’s lights helps. I may have to move it outside.
 
#13 ·
I just installed an Amazon rear view camera on our 1992 van.
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B075R8M64W/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

How nice to have both wireless and wired video connectors. I’m using the wireless in my 1992 GM van with the camera inside, aimed through a rear door window. I like the coloured lines indicating path and distance when backing up. The video is not very clear, perhaps due to reflections from the window. Taping over the camera’s lights helps. I may have to move it outside.
Is it Bluetooth? I'm looking for a wireless mini camera for my LC 500 that would just project to my cellphone, just for parking sometimes. The front sensors don't look low enough for high curbs.
 
#16 ·
I wasn’t happy with the 4 inch monitor on my first system, just too small.
The 7 inch seems much better. I put it on top of the dash with two sided tape. The stand swivels from flat to vertical.
Better for you to buy a set with the monitor size you like or just a camera that works with your phone. The forum RV.net often has a thread on this topic with reviews of rear view systems that are very helpful.
 
#19 ·
You're welcome....as they say in YouTube, "Hit that Like and Subscribe button". LOL..well we have the Thank you and like button. :)

I would surely read over your owners manual on the way it operates and if it goes back to Auto mode after some time or not.
But I think the switch is in the glove.