OK here we go. There is a five picture limit so will do this in two postings.
This is not a wired/wireless discussion. I was given a wired system as a gift - Rear View Camera System One (1) Camera Setup With Trailer Tow Quick Connect/Disconnect Kit Model # RVS-770613-213
The reviews for this system are mostly on the plus side and after doing this install, I agree with that.
I started first with my truck, a 2005 F250, crew, 4X4, diesel that I acquired four months ago. It was in pretty decent shape with 100,000 miles and was setup for fifth wheel towing. I replaced the FICM (ficmrepair.com) put on new 10 ply michilens, cleaned the EGR and replaced the fluids and filters.
I originally ran the wires for a top dash display but wasn't happy with that placement so used the old ashtray instead. It fits perfect with double sided industrial Velcro strips. Some may not like this lower location but it's similar to a MH setup I had in the past and for me it works.
I started in the bed and ran the cable from the left rear corner behind the liner to the front of the bed and then down underneath using plastic wire loom where it was exposed.
There were lots of places underneath to tie strap it. I come up through a large rubber grommet on the drivers side floor and then behind the left kick panel and under the dash for the electrical connections. The power lead(s) are connected to one of my upfitter switches (10 amp).
Whenever the unit is turned on, it has power. It is not triggered by reverse as I also use it often when driving to confirm when I have cleared traffic on either side prior to lane changes.
Before starting on the trailer wiring I, of course, tested the system to make sure my connections were all good.
I debated a bit on the location for the trailer connection and decided on locating it close to the king pin which allows the connector cable to stay in the bed. I have seen others with the connectors by the main trailer harness and then across to the the main body of the trailer and that works as well.
I started by removing the battery vent and ran the connector out through a small slit I cut in the siding at the top of the vent. From there, one end goes outside under the overhang to the pin area. This I debated again. My intention all along was to try and avoid drilling holes in the outer skin as much as possible. For the rear I had already decided on a type of pvc conduit but for the front I went with wire loom wrapped in white tape and attached with two c/clamps using two existing screws and also added tie strap base pads. For these I removed the existing double sided tape and replaced it with 3M automotive molding tape. Figured if it holds your outside molding on it will work here too.
I made up a small bracket to hold the connector and placed it underneath behind the pin and beside the trailer wiring connection box. See this pic on the next posting.
The other end of the cable that goes to the camera I ran down inside the front storage area and put it under the plastic belly pan close to the outside frame rail. This was quite easy as there is lots of room to work and there are just a few screws to remove that allows you to tuck the wire up inside. Again, wherever it was exposed I used wire loom cover.
See next posting