Proof that it is hard to see out of the back window

[Guppy]

As most of us H3ers know it is very hard to see out the back window when backing up. I am sorry to say that I had to take out a small kid’s bike today http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif Fortunately my 4 yr old was by the garage where I could see him.

I thought he put his bike to the side of the driveway before I told him to get where I could see him... Next thing I knew was a bump and then a crunch... At least for my little guy he got a new bike today. For all those out there, be careful backing up...

[Disnydad]

I'm gettin a back up camera system for the H3 when it gets here. I already squished my sons bike with the Ford pickup a couple of years ago. After that I put one of those back up beepers on it - drives the neighbors nuts.

[RubHer Yellow Ducky]

I saw a H-2 today with a Mangeled Teddy Bear attached to the outside Spare Tire and a sign on the Bear that READ...

CAUTION ! POOR REAR VIEW ...

Gives me an idea for my H-3's

RYD

[Steve - SanJose]

Hitchcam works for me. Cheaper than crashing into things.

S.

[deicustoms1]

Haha...that bear thing is awesome.

[oneworld]

Hey Guppy Glad to hear you didnt hit your 4 year old. The first month I had my H3 I backed up into a pizza delivery guys car, low profile honda civic. I put a nice dent in his hood with the spare tire > cost me $250.00 I couldnt even see the roof of his car through my back window, he was also very close to my H3 maybe 18 inches of my rear bumper. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif I learned that night to look behind my car whenever I have to back it up before I get in http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[killian]

Have you guys seen that back up cam on the 07 Tahoe? They use the screen on the in dash nav system, the camera comes on automatically when you shift in to reverse. It's pretty slick.

[Agriv8r]

We are using a camera that mounts to the license plate bolts, leaves the hitch free. Comes 2 ways, one is an additional 4 inch monitor to mount antwhere you want and the second is a "V" chip that converts the Factory Nav system. The advantage to the "V" is that your nav system will also dispaly video now. Both should be available in most audio video shops.

[DWPC]

We stuck one of these fresnel lenses on the back window and it makes a huge difference. There are several brands; we paid $7.50 on eBay. RV suppliers sell them too.

http://www.safeview.com/featured.html

[H3less]

What's the thing going to cost us? http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

[wannabeH3]

haha funny you should mention this, , as i was backing out of my spot at the local coffe place, i gunned it and backed up fast and saw some guy jumping out of the way on my drivers side mirror.... i didnt see **** out the back and never knew he was there hahahahaa he looked pissed

[Kiraco]

We have the back up camera on our Black H3 and I think I have only looked at it once to see exactly how far away from the wall I really was. I personally would rather look out my side mirrors and the back window, but I also tend to look behind the vehicle before I get in.

On the other hand timgco uses it all the time and wouldn't go without!

[Steve - SanJose]

I use Hitchcam and 3.5 inch monitor daily. Also helps when backing into tight space when parallel parking. I still use side mirrors. Since my monitor and side mirrors are mounted at almost the same level, it's easy to scan all when backing up.

S.

[PARAGON]

Ummmm........ well....... damn...... wellll....... ****, apparently it is kinda hard. Let's just say I have first hand knowledge. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[ETD]

DWPC, thanks for the heads up. A cheap solution that may work? I once took care of a kid that was pinned by his dad between the rear bumper of his pickup and the garage door. Not pretty...
One thing though, I couldn't help but notice that the photo illustration on the site for safeview shows a scene behind an SUV of a playground but the scene in the "safeview" product is that of a street. WTF? Does it look into the future or something http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_confused.gif
I just need one that looks down and back not back-to-the-future http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[NEOCON1]

Does it look into the future or something
LMAO thats pretty funny man http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

[DWPC]

Originally posted by ETD:
One thing though, I couldn't help but notice that the photo illustration on the site for safeview shows a scene behind an SUV of a playground but the scene in the "safeview" product is that of a street. WTF? http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Ed:, if you look closely, you'll see that the image in the lens is, in fact, the wide-angle version of rear window view. Note that the same sign board seen out the rear window is in the center of the lens image. From that starting point, you can see the other details are correct too.

That is how it looks in use too; the wide-angle is reduced in size, but VERY wide. They should have used a much larger image on the webpage.

Here's another source with more pictures: http://www.rearlens.com/

[HummerNewbie]

Originally posted by PARAGON:
Ummmm........ well....... damn...... wellll....... ****, apparently it is kinda hard. Let's just say I have first hand knowledge. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

ROFLMAO http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[jp's-h3]

The rear cam is my next project!

[Edd]

Seen a "Rear CAM" in one of those adult movies once......Geez who knew?

[Hummer crazy]

Well I backed into a co workers Saturn With my H3 and with my Zr2 with 14" of lift I backed up to pick a friend up outa the rain and Outa the corner of my eye i see a unbrella falling down It was a neighbor crossing the street behind me Lucky he did'nt get hurt ( i laugh now) but Then I was Worried

[fourfourto]

Well I backed into a co workers Saturn With my H3 and with my Zr2 with 14" of lift I backed up to pick a friend up outa the rain and Outa the corner of my eye i see a unbrella falling down It was a neighbor crossing the street behind me Lucky he did'nt get hurt ( i laugh now) but Then I was Worried



You nead to get a rear camera! http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

[Steve - SanJose]

With all this backup crashing in H3's, I hope the insurance companies don't start considering our rigs "high risk".
http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif
S.

[Cedar Butte]

I was at stop sign and a truck was cut the corner tight. I looked in both side mirrors and the rearview mirror and nothing put it in reverse and crunch. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_redface.gif

I put a 6x8 3M stick on prism in the upper corner of the wiper area. Not as high tech as a camera but it works. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

The dog thinks it’s cool to he looks through it allot when we are going down the road.. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

[NEOCON1]

The dog thinks it’s cool to he looks through it allot when we are going down the road..

LMAO http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif doggy is stylin !!!

[Flaunt]

I added the back-up sensor more cost effective than the camera.

[Sewie]

Originally posted by Flaunt:
I added the back-up sensor more cost effective than the camera.

Where did you mount the sensors? Do you have any problem with the spare on the back?

[thedieter]

Got the 6"x8" rear lens yesterday. I put it on the upper left (driver side) for a trial. With the H3 in the garage, I can see most of the driveway which looks promising. I am having a cataract operation tomorrow and my wife will be driving the next two days.

I will report on the results shortly.

Best regards, Happy Jack

[ETD]

I am having a cataract operation tomorrow and my wife will be driving the next two days.


Wait...that's not gonna solve the back-up problem http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_confused.gif http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_confused.gif http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Hal]

I would like to hear more info on a camera that can work with the factory Nav System screen. Any chance GM will offer it as an add on in the future? I think the Tahoe uses the same nav unit in dash and they do have a factory installed camera hooked up. Am I correct? A friend of mine just got a fully loaded Tahoe a few weeks ago, I'm going to take a closer look at the way it is set up.

[thedieter]

I have attached photos that I took while the H3 was in the garage to show what can be seen with the new rear view lens. I took the photo of the inside rear view mirror from the driver's seat so the image is reversed. This view is what the driver sees looking forward without cranking the neck around, which appeals to me. The rear seat is folded down on driver's side, so the lower half of the rear window is not covered as it would be with the seat up, allowing an undistorted view through that part. We will drive it that way unless we have passengers.

The shadow from the roof on the driveway is about 1/2 way to the sidewalk which indicates that a child or dog would be visible. Without the lens, only the upper half of the neighbor's wall is visible as you can see in the photos.

We are quite satisfied that we won't need a back-up camera and think the lens is the ideal solution. It appeals to my frugal nature and as I mentioned, I don't like the idea of hacking into the electrical system.

Best regards, Happy Jack (driving again with two new eyes)

[Steve - SanJose]

Rear view lens looks useful. Does it work okay at night?

S.

[Agriv8r]

Originally posted by Hal:
I would like to hear more info on a camera that can work with the factory Nav System screen.

HAL,
Should be able to get a "V" chip at any car audio place. It is the chip that converts the signal for display on the factory Nav. It will also allow the factory Nav to display/play DVD. I pay about 450 for the chip and about 300 for the camera.

[Agriv8r]

If you want to I can put you in contact with the guy I buy them from. If you cant get it local, he will send it to you.

[thedieter]

I tested the rear view lens tonight and I can see the driveway by the light of the backup lights. I'm sold!

Best regards, Happy Jack

[Steve - SanJose]

Rear lens could be a low cost alternative to various backup cams.

I've noticed a majority of accidents discussed on this H3 forum involve BACKING into objects and cars.

S.

[RubHer Yellow Ducky]

OK - OK
I ordered the darn lens. Will let you know my thoughts as soon as it comes in...

RYD

[fourfourto]

The rear seat is folded down on driver's side, so the lower half of the rear window is not covered as it would be with the seat up, allowing an undistorted view through that part. We will drive it that way unless we have passengers.



Couldnt you put it in the area the wiper covers and seats could be left up?.

I have a rear cam but wouldnt mine one of those, list info on were to get one and price.

[RubHer Yellow Ducky]

There are 2 links on page 1 of this post...

RYD

[fourfourto]

There are 2 links on page 1 of this post...


Duh http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_confused.gifagain I didnt go back to begining of thread. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Ipedog]

Couldnt you put it in the area the wiper covers and seats could be left up?.


Spare tire in the way?

[NEOCON1]

Originally posted by fourfourto:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">There are 2 links on page 1 of this post...


Duh http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_confused.gifagain I didnt go back to begining of thread. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

LOL i do the samething all the time . http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[PARAGON]

I'm buying a certain H3 owner this option for his truck to help with backing http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

http://www.sureplus.com/images/products/373.gif

[HummerNewbie]

Originally posted by PARAGON:
I'm buying a certain H3 owner this option for his truck to help with backing http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Damn, that is mighty generous of you http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[RubHer Yellow Ducky]

HEY Paragon ---

GREAT Idea

RYD

[fourfourto]

quote:
Couldnt you put it in the area the wiper covers and seats could be left up?.



Spare tire in the way?

It should work here tires not in the way and wiper will clean behind it .

[PARAGON]

Originally posted by fourfourto:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">quote:
Couldnt you put it in the area the wiper covers and seats could be left up?.



Spare tire in the way?

It should work here tires not in the way and wiper will clean behind it . </div></BLOCKQUOTE>yeah, but I'm betting that will mess with your normal viewing out the back.

Kinda like putting one of those hotspot mirror things on your outside mirrors right in the middle.

Think about running down the highway with that in the middle

[fourfourto]

yeah, but I'm betting that will mess with your normal viewing out the back.

Kinda like putting one of those hotspot mirror things on your outside mirrors right in the middle.

Think about running down the highway with that in the middle



Yeh you have a good point there, just an idea.Not to hard to experiment with it it comes on and off easy.
Im glad I have the rear camera.
http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[thedieter]

I was most concerned with seeing as close to the back of H3 as possible. In the photo, you can see a tiny bit of the tire blocking in the lower corner of the lens which would be much more if the lens were moved to the center.

The suggestions are good though and possibly there is a better position than what I have chosen. I didn't try the passenger side which may get some benefit from the wiper. I never use the wiper.

I am very happy with the results. I can see a whole car and pavement in front of it whereas without the lens, I can only see the top and it looks like it is right on my bumper.

Best regards, Happpy Jack

[thedieter]

I am posting this picture to show closer to full size what is seen looking forward at the inside rear view mirror. The picture that I posted previously was zoomed in quite a bit which made it difficult to get the proper perspective.

Best regards, Happy Jack

[psywzrd]

Do they sell these lenses in any stores (Pep Boys, etc.)?

[jbiancolli]

Originally posted by Agriv8r:
We are using a camera that mounts to the license plate bolts, leaves the hitch free. Comes 2 ways, one is an additional 4 inch monitor to mount antwhere you want and the second is a "V" chip that converts the Factory Nav system. The advantage to the "V" is that your nav system will also dispaly video now. Both should be available in most audio video shops.

Looking for the same setup with the OEM NAV system and backup camera for my H3. What brand did you have installed?

[Disnydad]

Originally posted by psywzrd:
Do they sell these lenses in any stores (Pep Boys, etc.)?

We've bought them at Toys R Us in the saftey section. Used to have them on the wifes minivan.

[fourfourto]

Originally posted by Agriv8r:
We are using a camera that mounts to the license plate bolts, leaves the hitch free.
I mounted mine on the licence plate overhang.It works great,make sure you get a wide angle lens to make up for the offset .I think mine is 160 deg.

[Flaunt]

Originally posted by Sewie:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Flaunt:
I added the back-up sensor more cost effective than the camera.

Where did you mount the sensors? Do you have any problem with the spare on the back? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

No problems! I purchased the kit with four sensors and mounted them to the bumper.

For those of you who asked about wiring the back-up camera to the nav? A local shop should be able to do this for you. We do it all the time here. (Cadillac, GMC dealership)

[Disnydad]

Originally posted by Disnydad:

We've bought them at Toys R Us in the saftey section. Used to have them on the wifes minivan.

I stand corrected. I stopped into a Toys R Us store tonight and they don't have them now. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_redface.gif

[RubHer Yellow Ducky]

I did the fresnel lens thing plus 2 little wide angle mirrors on the outside...

Inproves overall visability 80 %, really overcomes rearview problem and problem of big roof pillars.

I'm impressed, and only $30.00

RYD

[mountainbiker]

I added the back-up sensor more cost effective than the camera.
Do you have any pictures of your install? Did you drill holes into the plastic bumper cover or the metal bumper?

And, does the spare tire give you any false alarms?