How to get video monitoring into older trucks? - I have an '05 Sierra 2500HD crew cab with a topper (canopy). I can't see squat behind me when I back ...

I have an '05 Sierra 2500HD crew cab with a topper (canopy). I can't see squat behind me when I back up. I would like to install a backup camera system. I would love to upgrade my radio to a newer model GM radio with a built-in monitor like the newer trucks have. Does anyone know if the newer radios will drop in to a 2005? Or has anyone install a GM review mirror with video screen? (I like to keep my autodimming, OnStar, temp, and compass mirror but can do the newer mirrors also have a video screen?)

I've already looked into after market audio equipment but I didn't care for the quality of the products (Kenwood and Pioneer). I also didn't care for the fact that I had to purchase an additional $150 accessory just to keep my audible alarms and diagnostic memory in place.

Any help or advice would be appreciated.

I had a reverse camera that displayed the image on my flip up deck. the Alpine touch screen decks are very good quality picture. i have seen the Kenwood and Pioneer and they looked like a POS compared to my Alpine. i just recommend that if you do decide to get the camera that displays the image onto a stereo head unit, ask the intaller or audio shop for a Double Din deck, the Single Din decks suck. you always have to wait for them to come out and then wait for the picture to display. There are ones that you can get that display the image onto your rearview mirror, but their picture quality sucks too!

I also have an alpine touch screen. It is an awsome radio. I have not put in the camera yet but I have seen it and it is a great picture. The plus side is you can get the steering wheel controls to work with it. My buddy had the rear view set-up on his ford and the picture quality was bad. I also had one in a GM rental, they put me in an H2 that had the pop out screen in the rear. It was bad too. To sum up my long winded post. SMALL SCREENS REALLY SUCK!!!!

The Alpine is a great quality unit. MUCH better then most of the others on the market. talk to your local installer and see what he recommends.

Thanks for all the replies. It sounds like Alpine may be the way to go, but did anyone loose functionality (i.e. chimes and alarms - like when you leave your lights on, or the door open, or didn't buckle your seat belt)? And the biggest issue - do you still get OBD2 codes?

The only chime I don't have is the one when you leave your keys in the ignition. I really don't care about that.

I have not lost any chimes in mine. granted i better not since i havent even owned it for 2 months!