Homemade Tow Mirrors : Upgrade Your Towing
When it comes to towing a trailer or a caravan, having good visibility is essential for safe driving. Tow mirrors are an important accessory for any vehicle used for towing, as they extend your line of sight, making it easier to see the road behind and beside the trailer. However, buying a set of tow mirrors can be expensive, especially if you only use them occasionally.
But fear not, as we have the perfect solution for you – homemade tow mirrors! Making your own tow mirrors is not only cost-effective, but it can also be a fun and rewarding DIY project. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to create your own homemade tow mirrors.
Materials You Will Need
Before you start building your homemade tow mirrors, make sure you have the following materials:
| Materials | Tools |
|---|---|
| Two large mirrors | Drill |
| Two suction cup mounts | Screwdriver |
| Two L-shaped metal brackets | Measuring tape |
| Adhesive pads | Marker |
| Level |
Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have all your materials and tools ready, it’s time to start building your homemade tow mirrors. Follow these steps:
- Prepare the Mirrors: Start by cleaning the surface of the mirrors to ensure that the adhesive pads will stick properly.
- Attach the Suction Cup Mounts: Use the adhesive pads to attach the suction cup mounts to the back of the mirrors. Make sure they are securely in place.
- Mount the L-shaped Brackets: Using a measuring tape and a marker, determine the placement of the L-shaped brackets on the outer edge of your vehicle’s side mirrors. Use a drill to create holes for the screws, then attach the brackets using a screwdriver.
- Attach the Mirrors: Place the mirrors onto the suction cup mounts, ensuring they are positioned securely. Use a level to make sure the mirrors are straight and adjust if necessary.
Benefits of Homemade Tow Mirrors
Creating your own homemade tow mirrors offers several advantages:
- Cost-Effective: Building your own tow mirrors is much more affordable than buying a pre-made set.
- Customization: You can tailor the size and shape of the mirrors to your specific towing needs.
- Sense of Achievement: DIY projects can be rewarding, and building your own tow mirrors is a great way to feel accomplished.
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The price of suede headliner fabric for car interiors is $55.99. This fabric is specifically designed for automotive, home, and RV interior replacement and repair projects. It is made of micro-suede material with foam backing and is 60 inches wide by the yard. The color available is black, and the dimensions are 60 inches by 96 inches.
Can I add auto fold to existing power fold mirrors?
Yes, it is possible to add an auto fold feature to existing power fold mirrors. I have developed a module specifically designed for this purpose, which can be retrofitted to 07+ Trucks. The installation process is straightforward and does not draw any current when the truck is off and the mirrors are not in motion.
The module utilizes a bistable relay along with soldered diodes, resistors, and capacitors to function effectively. It does not consume any power when the truck is turned off and the mirrors are stationary. When the truck is on, the mirror switch will continue to operate as usual. By pressing the designated button, the mirrors will fold, and pressing it again will unfold them.
Additionally, when the truck is turned off, the module will automatically fold the mirrors upon receiving a lock signal. Conversely, they will unfold when it receives an unlock signal. However, if you prefer not to use the unlock signal, you can simply leave it disconnected, and the mirrors will return to the position set by the manual switch when the truck is turned back on.
In summary, with the installation of this module, you can enhance your existing power fold mirrors by adding an auto fold feature.
Where can I get the parts needed for the retrofit?
To obtain the necessary parts for the retrofit, you can find a list of items available on Digikey, alongside a picture of the mirror switch which is available for purchase on Amazon. Additionally, there are images provided that demonstrate where the wires should be connected to the module. If there is a minimum of 10 individuals interested in undertaking this project, the speaker is willing to order custom Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) and offer them for $3 each, with shipping included.
Final Thoughts
Homemade tow mirrors are a fantastic DIY project for anyone looking to improve their towing visibility without breaking the bank. With just a few simple materials and some basic tools, you can create your own custom tow mirrors that are perfect for your vehicle. So why spend a fortune on store-bought tow mirrors when you can make your own at a fraction of the cost? Give it a try and see the difference homemade tow mirrors can make for your towing experience!
Frequently Asked Questions On Homemade Tow Mirrors : Upgrade Your Towing
Where Can I Buy Homemade Tow Mirrors?
You can buy homemade tow mirrors at a local hardware store or online marketplace websites.
What Are The Advantages Of Homemade Tow Mirrors?
Homemade tow mirrors are cost-effective, easy to install, customizable, and provide better visibility while towing.
How Do Homemade Tow Mirrors Differ From Factory-made Ones?
Homemade tow mirrors allow for personal customization and are often a more affordable alternative to factory-made options.
Can I Install Homemade Tow Mirrors On Any Vehicle?
Yes, homemade tow mirrors can generally be installed on most vehicles with the right tools and expertise.
How much does the DIY power fold tow mirror retrofit cost?
The cost of the DIY power fold tow mirror retrofit is approximately $50, excluding the mirrors and wire.
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