Had planned to install a bed cap (ARE or LEER) onto a 2025 3500 Laramie Crew Cab, Short Bed fitted with two optional camera systems: Surround View Camera System, and Tow Mode Digital Rear-View Mirror Package. Checked with several dealers in Montgomery, Frederick, and Prince Georges Counties in Maryland; only one was willing to take on the challenge, and would not assure that the installation would operate smoothly with the two optional systems. Any advice or experience would be most appreciated. Plan B is to mount a BAK-Flip F-1 folding hard cover. Highway Towing Safety is the highest priority.
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Cap Mounting - Any Advice to Avoid Interference with Optional Camera and Digital Mirror Systems?
- Thread starter Jeepyr
- Start date
I installed a Leer cap (topper) on my 24 2500 with the Surround View Camera and Tow Mode Digital Rear-View. After a bit of research, the solution to relocate the camera functions was quite easy and economical. Assuming the 2025 is similar, this was my approach. I also had the cargo camera and duplicated it's functionality as well.
The surround system uses the front, side, and tailgate cameras, so no modification is necessary with a topper.
The tow mode digital rear view package uses a camera mounted in the CHMSL housing in the rear of the cab. Also, the cargo camera is mounted in this housing. I purchased replacement cameras for both functions (open the CHMSL to discover the correct part numbers) mounted the cameras inside the topper (the tow made camera shoots throught the glass using this simple mount. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CM3HZQJT?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_4 ) Used a zip tie to secure the camera to the mount. I left the original cameras and wiring in place in case I take the topper off.
Both cameras are wired to video processors under the drivers seat. I disconnected the original cameras at the processors and ran new cables (with appropriately located FAKRA disconnects) from the processors, through a knockout under the drivers seat and back to the bed entering at the stake pocket. Cables used were various forms of premade FAKRA cables from Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/s?k=bingfu+cable&crid=X2CCNBE9XTQY&sprefix=bingfu+cable,aps,151&ref=nb_sb_noss_2
Note that the FAKRA connectors can be removed from the cable to fit the cable through small openings. I also added short jumper cables at the video processors to make it easy to switch between old and new cameras, instead of dealing with the tight access around the processors.
I was originally aprehensive of the video quality when shooting through the rear glass, but it turns out to be excellent. And no topper modifications required. I don't remember the exact total cost, but it was around $400 including the two new cameras. You could reuse your existing cameras to save some $, but note that one of the camera lenses passes thorugh the CHMSL housing that would require some sealing to prevent water intrusion.
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