SAGA OF THE SONY BACKUP CAMERA
In June of 1998, the Sony backup camera on my 92 Coachman RV suddenly quit working. It was at this point that I discovered that Coachman had built the in-line connector for my camera into the rear fiberglass cap on my motor home. Given, some of the other production screw ups that I have encountered on this coach previously, I just added this to the long list.
In order to remove the camera, I had to literally disassemble it on the roof of the coach and leave the rear portion of the camera housing up there. If you have never seen the inside of one of these things, you are in for a surprise. There are more electronics crammed into this 4 by 4 inch housing than today's TV set.
I have a friend who works on video equipment and gave it to him for what was supposed to be a minor repair. After two months and replacement of 70% of the guts, he gave up and left me with no camera.
During this process, I was also attempting to find another source for used or rebuilt units at a reasonable price, A new camera is going for around $750.00. The following are the results of my findings:
None of the RV Salvage dealer's have any used Sony camera's. I called at least 12.
The original Model 520AM Sony cameras have design problems that limit their life span to around 6 years or less in a corrosive environment. This is supposed to have been fixed in the newer 530AM model but time will tell.
You may be able to get a rebuilt unit from the Sony distribution center for around $400.00 with 90 day warrantee. (1-800-442-7719 ask for Joe) I had to buy a pigtail from them in order to get my new camera reconnected to my existing interface.
ElkHart Surplus Salvage has some JCS camera's and monitor's (complete system's) that he offered to sell for $395.00. I don't know exactly what is included nor have I ever heard of JCS but you can reach them at (219) 295-8903.
I finally found some surplus units at Jakes R & R Salvage in Fairmont Mn. The model 530AM camera that I received was packaged in original factory box with mounting bracket , documentation, and accessories. It appears to be a new unit and it was much less than the rebuilt unit from Sony.
Their phone number is (507) 235-9484, ask for Randy who handles the camera's. He indicated that he has around 20 of the complete systems (camera, cables, and monitor) but I do not know how many he will split.
8/23/98
I received an E-Mail from Bob Rost today indicating that he also has systems
for sale 1-800-365-5578 or email RobtRost@aol.com
10/13/98
The discount Sony 530 Camera is working well and am extremely happy with same.
12/12/2004
Tim Lazaroe at RV CAMS www.rvcams.com has
indicated that he also sells the Sony camera's and has an adapter to replace
it with a Voyager camera (which he also sells) Tim's toll free number is 877-378-2267.