A new four-camera trailering system will be made available to 2014-2016 model year Silverado HD trucks, joining a factory-installed fifth-wheel prep package, compatible with two separate accessories.
Chevrolet teamed up with Echomaster in order to develop the ‘Blind-Spot-Assist towing package system’, which comes with three cameras – two side view cameras and one for mounting on the rear of the trailer. The system can also be fitted to the Silverado 1500 truck as long as it comes with the available trailer-towing mirrors – which is where the two side cameras are integrated, leading to improved vision along the sides of the truck and trailer.
The rear camera however is mounted on the top, rearmost edge of the trailer, providing the driver with a view of what’s behind the trailer when reversing. In order to activate the rear backup camera in the Silverado, the driver simply needs to select the appropriate gear, however in order to select the trailer camera image, the radio home button needs to be pressed for five seconds.
Customers needing even more visibility can opt for an additional fourth camera which can be installed inside the trailer itself, transmitting video to monitor horses, cattle and other livestock during transport.
The new trailering camera system will be available for purchase in April through Chevy dealers, with prices starting at $999.
Also new to the Silverado is a $350 factory-installed fully-integrated fifth-wheel package, available on all 2016 2500HD and 3500HD trucks. It features a frame-mounted hitch platform and tray, concealed under the truck bed. In order to take full advantage of the fully-boxed high-strength steel frame, the trey can use either a fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitch. Once you remove said hitch, the frame is completely concealed.
The hitch platform is compatible with the Chevrolet Accessories Gooseneck Completion Kit, which for a price of $315 also comes with a 2-5/16-inch ball hitch and two chain tie-downs.
As for the CURT Manufacturing fifth-wheel package, it’s currently available through Chevy dealers for the price $939 (20,000 lbs) and $999 (25,000 lbs).
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