Using cargo camera inputs for front camera?

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Heber G

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I'd like to add a front camera to aide when parking in tight spaces . But before I pull the plug on buying the ALFA OBD app, OBD adapter and the camera; I'd like to make sure this will work on my 2014 1500 Big Horn. My truck has the 8.4A RA3/VP3 radio with software version 18.11.07. I also have the factory reverse camera.

With that said will I be able to enable the cargo camera on the factory headunit using alfaobd and odblink?


Other than the rca pigtail harness, is there anything else I'll need?
 

NapaRam

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Thanks for the guide kad


Hi all,


I want to add a front camera to my 2019 1500 classic. From what I've read, I plan to skip the lockpick and connect a front- facing camera by enabling the cargo input on the 8.4 factory headunit using alfaobd and odblink.


I'll need a rca pigtail harness from Mpgrimm2 and a security bypass harness from DeereGuy?


I would like a camera that isn't mirrored and can turn guide lines on or off. I think I'd prefer the guidelines but dont know for sure. I'm open to opinions here. The ZSMJ reviewed by @kad looks promising but the thread indicated it wouldn't mount well on the ram. I'd be really happy for more camera suggestions. Wide field of view is important too so iam aware of where my front bumper is.



Questions:

1. Mainly. Is the above correct?

2. Is there anything I'm missing? Any other parts required?

3. What power source does the new camera get connected to?

4. Does this all actually work with the 2019 1500 classic?


I'd really love to hear about front cameras that people are really happy with.



I have already posted it before but I am very happy with this camera https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B078PLLN7F/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 ha s number of different mount choices and the image is very clear. I did exactly what you want to do with my 2015 so no bypass needed fortunately. It is a little tricky to get it all wired up fortunately I had a friend do that for me. I grabbed power from the 12 volt plug on the left side of the dash for my camera. Using Alpha BD to turn it on is pretty easy. I look it looks good is barely noticeable. You can PM me if you have more questions.

Front Camera.jpg
 

JB1

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I'd like to add a front camera to aide when parking in tight spaces . But before I pull the plug on buying the ALFA OBD app, OBD adapter and the camera; I'd like to make sure this will work on my 2014 1500 Big Horn. My truck has the 8.4A RA3/VP3 radio with software version 18.11.07. I also have the factory reverse camera.

With that said will I be able to enable the cargo camera on the factory headunit using alfaobd and odblink?


Other than the rca pigtail harness, is there anything else I'll need?

@Mpgrimm2 previously posted this in my camera thread

https://www.ramforum.com/threads/post-your-front-camera-link.157748/

Just an FYI ....
This only works on 16+ 8.4 radios after the last FCA update (enabling the cargo cam input in conjunction with bu cam).

If you have a 13-15 8.4 radio, you need to get a camera interface/add-on module from PAC, Crux, Nav-Tv, LockPick, or Customtronix.

M² Mods.
 

Heber G

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JB1 - I didn't see your thread and didn't see Mpgrimm2's post either. There's so much info on this forum. One can spend hours reading.

Anyway based on NapaRam's post, I went ahead and purchased the AlphaOBD app. The app worked with my ELM327 OBD reader and I was able to activate the cargo cam on the head unit. I'm looking over several camera options and deciding on either building my own rca pigtail or buying one.

The question now is - if I don't update software version 18.11.07 to a higher one, I should be ok - right?

How long will it take to get a forced update?

Should I start looking for 16+ head unit? or Get a camera interface/add-on module?

Which of the two is less expensive?
 

Ziggman

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I have a factory cargo cam on my truck that is pretty much useless because I have a full time camper on. I would like to be able to unplug the cargo cam at the radio, and use that input for a front mounted camera. Any ideas what harness/ camera I would need to do this?
 

BlownGP

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Does @Mpgrimm2 still make the harness with the RCA plug and the two leads to tap into the back of the 8.4 screen?

I have a 2018
 

Austen

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Is there any way I can add my front camera to my RA4 and keep my factory cargo and backup cameras?
 
OP
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kad

kad

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Is there any way I can add my front camera to my RA4 and keep my factory cargo and backup cameras?
Only with extra hardware. I think the Lockpick can do it.

-K
 

Austen

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That's what I was afraid of. I firmly believe that somehow adding the Customtronix Enzo premium messed up the backup and cargo cam screens on my uaq because the video inputs worked great before I installed it and when I remove it both cams still have bad interference. I reinstalled my RA4 and the interference is no longer there. Only with my uaq does it appear. When I put the Customtronix enigma on to be able to add my front camera I lose my soft key for me backup camera for some reason. Not sure if it's because I've got a G56 or not because it never happened on my '17 Tradesman with the 68.
 

Pfosted

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Is there a @Mpgrimm2 adapter for a 5th gen 2020 12” screen Rebel to install a front camera?
 

Mpgrimm2

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Looking good
 

Sking80

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Thanks to you @Mpgrimm2 for supplying the Pigtale to make it all work. Easy Payment and fast shipping!!!!
 

stembridge

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How did you get cargo soft key in your lineup?
Once enabled with AlfaOBD, the cargo cam icon should be visible on the Apps page on the radio. Press and hold the icon until it becomes moveable, then continue pressing and drag to the icon tray at the bottom. I did this today with my tailgate camera icon, and will add the cargo cam once I get the pigtail and camera hooked up.

es
 

stembridge

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I installed my front camera today (Coolint CT106S) and used AlfaOBD to enable VehConfig 1 - CHMSL Camera and CBC Features - LED CHMSL Lamp Present. The Cargo Cam button became available on the radio after an hour or so, but I'm getting the "Camera System Unavailable" error instead of video.

Too late to go mess with it any more this evening. I'm 95% sure I pinned my RCA pigtail from @Mpgrimm2 correctly (positions 24 and 25), but I guess I'll pull it back out and recheck tomorrow if the video doesn't automagically appear by then.

es
 
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