Backup camera for tractor

[jigs_n_fixtures]

I've found that it's difficult to mount one or even two cameras on a tractor that will show what you need for all types of work. Powering the cameras is also tricky if you want to avoid running wires. Solar is an option but not for heavily shaded areas or at night. I solved these problems by making my own portable camera system.

I took my existing 2 camera wireless system and modified it to use cordless tool batteries. I added strong magnets so the cameras and monitor could be placed almost anywhere. It's sometimes better to put the camera on or near the work, rather than on the tractor.
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This idea will work for most camera systems using an adapter for the brand of cordless tool batteries you use.
I don't always need the cameras, so the magnetic mounts are temporary. Most of the time, the system is in a case behind the tractor seat and deployed when necessary.


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Word of warning: The DeWalt batteries are monitored and controlled by the tool. So, you have to be careful not to over discharge the batteries.

 

[bdhsfz6]

Word of warning: The DeWalt batteries are monitored and controlled by the tool. So, you have to be careful not to over discharge the batteries.

Yes, this is true. There is no LVC (low voltage cutoff) in the DeWalt battery BMS. As you say, that function is done by the tool. This is not the case with all brands of cordless tool batteries though.

However, if you do over discharge to the point where the battery will no longer accept a charge, there is a trick to fix the issue. You simply put the dead battery in parallel with a charged one of the same voltage. This puts enough charge in the dead battery for the charger to "recognize" it again.

I've over discharged quite a few over the years and have always been able to get them working again using this trick. Doing this repeatedly will eventually damage the battery though.

 

[Wagtail]

Following.

 

[George2615]

I put 2 cameras (1 front, 1 back) on my tractor many years ago. The monitor just crapped out last month. I may look for a new wireless system, haven't decided yet.

 

[mikester]

Don't get burned the way I did...I bought a "4 camera system with 7 inch screen" with only one wireless camera included. When I decided to add a rear view I discovered every system and camera uses proprietary protocols - even from the same "manufacturer" or brand. I couldn't buy a spare camera for my system.

When I complained to the vendor they shipped me a "free wireless camera with 4" display". Yay.

 

[Topzide]

I vote for a wired camera system also to avoid issues. Easy enough to route wiring in protective sleeve with connector to remove if needed.

 

[TMGT]

I wonder how they'd hold up on an open station.

Sent from my SM-S921U using TractorByNet mobile app

 

[Alan W.]

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XKPQ6YZ?ref_=pe_123509780_1038749300_i_fed_asin_title

I put this one on my Bobcat a few years ago and it has held up well. Its bever been drenched but it has been wet and exposed to lots of dust.
I recently put this same one on my brother in laws sxs he uses to plow sidewalks.

 

[airbiscuit]

I just use a mirror

 

[Jaygyver]

Looking at doing the same, and I'm also thinking on getting a canopy so installing the monitor on the canopy would be great.
Seems I have to look at a double row seat golf cart top and make my own brackets to give me the length I want. The standard ones just seem too short. Here in the PNW the rain doesn't just come straight down and would like to keep the rain off my neck.