Backup / Reverse camera upgrades or modifications

[Matt]

So while I'm going to have to relocate my camera regardless (rear tire will be in the way) I was thinking about the possibility of upgrading the camera in the process.

Ideally i'd like to leave the OEM camera where it is, unplug it and use one of these:
TaoTronics TT-CC17 Camera

.. Just need to figure out how to tie into the existing wiring, assuming it puts out the proper signal.

Anyone look into this yet? And/or any members with more of an electrical background have any advice? I'll have to dig through my service manual to see if I can get an idea of the video type and control for the OEM setup and maybe look at the manufacturer specs for the aftermarket options.

I'm surprised this hasn't come up yet either; i guess no ones had the stock backup camera go bad? It's really expensive compared to aftermarket options.

[lekmedm]

I was able to adapt an aftermarket camera (Kenwood) into our Subaru. It just needed its own homemade harness with a Molex plug. I'll try to dig up some info. It might help you with some ideas on how to get it to work with the XK.

Sent from wherever my Jeep takes me.

[Matt]

That's exactly what i'm hoping can be done... once I find the harness I was going to probe the wires and see which one is the "activation" supply when in reverse, then the other should be the video feed. I'm not scared of making my own plugs and soldering; just not very experienced in video signals.

Appreciate any help!

[hoaxci5]

I thought that was all part of the canbus nightmare?

[1USMC]

You might see if any of "MyGig Lockpick" products could be of interest to you.

They are "plug and play" to our systems and I think they now handle up to three of your own cameras (they sell cameras also).
I have one of their older models to control my front camera that I also got from them. > http://www.coastaletech.com/MYGIG.htm

[Matt]

I thought that was all part of the canbus nightmare?

Not familiar with this.... the camera isn't wired directly to the head unit is it?

You might see if any of "MyGig Lockpick" products could be of interest to you.

Definitely going to check that out.

The other option, since my CD player doesn't work, is to just tough it out and replace the whole head unit someday with something that's plug & play with other cameras.