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Old 05-31-2021, 07:34 AM   #1
fivefix
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Default Oshkosh or Bust - Reverse Camera for Mullins Trailer Problem

Background:
I drive a 1930 Tudor with a 6V alternator and I've installed a couple 6V to 12V power step-ups to run an accessory plug for a Navigation system and a 12V third brake light with safety flasher. Everything works great. I'm planning to pull my Mullins Trailer to the Oshkosh National Meet next week and for those who have ever pulled one, they're invisible to the driver of a Model A. They just disappear due to their size and the limited visibility from within our cars.

I got the great idea to install a reverse/backup camera in the Tudor so I could always see the trailer and aid in backing up.

Problem:

I first installed a wireless reverse camera meaning I had to power the monitor and camera separately and the signal was wireless between the two of them. The camera was wired directly to a Power Step-Up and the monitor shared the plug with the NAV. Everything worked as designed UNTIL I started the car. Some kind of engine interference made the camera monitor blink on and off in three second intervals. Works great with the car off, blinks on and off with the car running.

So, I get the wise idea to purchase another one, but this time wired. I assumed the wireless signal was being disrupted so now I have one with a cable between the camera and monitor and an accessory plug that powers the entire set-up. I install it and it must require too much power as it won't turn on using the accessory plug that runs my NAV. So I move to plan B which is to use a mobile battery pack from Harbor Freight. Success and the system works great. Success that is UNTIL I start the car. You guessed it, interference is again messing with the system and causing the monitor to turn off. No blinks this time, it just turns off when I start the car.

Remember, this second set-up is powered independently from the car and does not share any wiring with the car.

Solution:
??????????

I need the knowledge of our automotive electrical experts to weigh in on what I can do to stop the interference.
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Old 05-31-2021, 08:32 AM   #2
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Default Re: Oshkosh or Bust - Reverse Camera for Mullins Trailer Problem

We can only assume the interference is coming from the ignition system, in which case replacing the distributor cap and plug wiring using RFI suppression type wires might be the solution. Maybe that's throwing parts at it, but I don't know what else it would be.
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Old 05-31-2021, 08:55 AM   #3
Ray in La Mesa
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Default Re: Oshkosh or Bust - Reverse Camera for Mullins Trailer Problem

A simpler way to keep tabs on the Mullins is to mount an antenna w/ flag on it to the hitch that you can see in your mirror through the rear window. I run a Mullins too & it works great.
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Old 05-31-2021, 09:41 AM   #4
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Default Re: Oshkosh or Bust - Reverse Camera for Mullins Trailer Problem

It is also possible that you have one bad diode in the alternator and the output is very 'noisy'. Barring alternator disassembly, you could check this with an oscilloscope.

Even if the alternator is OK the 6V 10/12SI one-wire converts have no soft start and put out a rather severe (to electronics) start up spike.

Your entire electrical harness acts as an broadcast antenna for either of these issues, so if the noise doesn't get to the electronics through the supply feed the transmitted radio wave may affect unshielded IC's.
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Old 05-31-2021, 12:54 PM   #5
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Default Re: Oshkosh or Bust - Reverse Camera for Mullins Trailer Problem

Try mounting a small capacitor across the power wires. It will trap the high frequency electrical noise but not the direct current. Use a capacitor that is not polarized.
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Old 06-10-2021, 04:45 PM   #6
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Default Re: Oshkosh or Bust - Reverse Camera for Mullins Trailer Problem

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David, I'm here in Oshkosh and just talked to Jerry Gates of New Boston, MI. His registration #45 and he's driving a "Dusty Gray" 1930 Station Wagon. He has installed a rear view camera which runs on 12 volts. His car is 6 volts with a one wire alternator and he uses a 6 to 12 Volt convertor to run his rear view camera. He has had no trouble at all with the system. Maybe he can help you out.
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Old 06-10-2021, 05:46 PM   #7
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Default Re: Oshkosh or Bust - Reverse Camera for Mullins Trailer Problem

I have a Mullins copy with a little longer tongue and can see it through my rearview mirror. I have traveled with it all over the country,(sweet). It is for sale, the kids grew up! 904-731-0367.
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Old 06-11-2021, 02:06 PM   #8
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Default Re: Oshkosh or Bust - Reverse Camera for Mullins Trailer Problem

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Originally Posted by AL in NY View Post
David, I'm here in Oshkosh and just talked to Jerry Gates of New Boston, MI. His registration #45 and he's driving a "Dusty Gray" 1930 Station Wagon. He has installed a rear view camera which runs on 12 volts. His car is 6 volts with a one wire alternator and he uses a 6 to 12 Volt convertor to run his rear view camera. He has had no trouble at all with the system. Maybe he can help you out.

Can you tell us the brand and model number for the backup camera?


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Old 06-11-2021, 06:16 PM   #9
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Default Re: Oshkosh or Bust - Reverse Camera for Mullins Trailer Problem

Shew01: Not right now. But I do have the fellows email address. So when I get home I be able to get the answer for you.
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Old 06-11-2021, 07:14 PM   #10
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Default Re: Oshkosh or Bust - Reverse Camera for Mullins Trailer Problem

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Shew01: Not right now. But I do have the fellows email address. So when I get home I be able to get the answer for you.

Thanks. That would be great.


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Old 06-14-2021, 08:54 AM   #11
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Default Re: Oshkosh or Bust - Reverse Camera for Mullins Trailer Problem

Shew01: sent you a PM
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Old 06-14-2021, 09:12 PM   #12
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Default Re: Oshkosh or Bust - Reverse Camera for Mullins Trailer Problem

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Shew01: sent you a PM

Got it. Thanks.


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Old 06-16-2021, 12:35 AM   #13
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Default Re: Oshkosh or Bust - Reverse Camera for Mullins Trailer Problem

Quote:
Originally Posted by Ray in La Mesa View Post
A simpler way to keep tabs on the Mullins is to mount an antenna w/ flag on it to the hitch that you can see in your mirror through the rear window. I run a Mullins too & it works great.
When I bought my Mullins, the PO had installed one of these flags. It screws into a permanent base mounted on the tongue, which makes it removable.

I have also mounted 19" Model A tires/wheels on the trailer which makes it stand a little taller which does make it easier to see.
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