Model A
Installation and
Technical Specifications Questions
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The following questions specifically relate to the sensors.
The following questions specifically relate to installation.
These links open up the Installation and Technical Information Question pages for the other TailGauge Kits. Clicking on these links will take you to another page.
To the
TailGauge Product Uses and General Questions Page.
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What is included in the kit?
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Contents of the Model A Kit.
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Two sensors that attach to the bottom of the vehicle's taillights, and a third sensor that may be mounted in the center of the rear bumper as desired.
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A power unit/processor that mounts in the trunk area.
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A small speaker that mounts within the passenger compartment.
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Sensor Hangers, Sensor Covers (for camouflaging sensors), 3M adhesive sheets.
All kits are checked for completeness before shipping.
**All products wire to the vehicles reversing lights to allow activation whenever the car is put into reverse gear. No special tools or training is required.
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TailGauge offers many accessory items to make your installation easier and cleaner. Take a look and see if there is anything that might help you with your installation.
What tools are needed to install the Model A kit?
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Drill bit - 1/2” bit
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Modular Plug crimpers for RJ22 / RJ10 (Telephone handset) plug
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Coat hanger or other tool to fish wires
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Wire stripper and cutter
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Electrical tape
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Flashlight
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Possibly a small pry bar
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Isopropyl Alcohol and lint free wipes
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Any tools that may be needed to move car trim to run cables.
What is the big difference between the A and V & V-SA models?
There are two. The Series V
(Models V & V-SA) LED Display versus the Model A speaker, and the detail
of information provided. The A Model is invisible to install, because
nothing will show inside the car after you are done with the installation.
The speaker is hidden unless you choose to mount it visibly. The V & V-SA
models are almost "invisible," with the exception that you will obviously
have a digital display visible in your car, usually mounted above or near
the rear view mirror. All the units are very accurate, with the Series V
units detecting up to 16 feet behind a vehicle while the Model A detects
up to 8 feet. However, the display unit Models V & V-SA are able to
provide a bit more detail. They provide distance updates in tenths of
feet, while the speaker version Model A provides updates in feet.
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What is the main difference between the Model A and the Model A-F?
There are a few differences.
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The Model A uses three surface mounted sensors while the Model A-F uses four flush mounted sensors.
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Flush mounted sensors always require that holes be drilled into the vehicles bumpers, surface mounted sensors do not require this, although some installation applications do.
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Flush mounted sensors are
intended for use on passenger vehicles, light vans, mini buses, sport utility vehicles and light trucks with a closed bed. They are not suitable for heavy trucks, pick up trucks or any other vehicle where the power
unit will be exposed to water. Additionally, they are not intended for use in situations where the sensors may be obstructed or where they may be damaged either by debris from the vehicle or while the vehicle is being loaded or unloaded. Surface mounted sensor are more durable and can be mounted
inside protective metal SensorGuards.
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The Model A detects objects up to 8 feet behind your vehicle
and people at around 5 feet from the rear of your vehicle while the Model A-F detects
objects up to 12 feet.
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The Model A-F does not have as great peripheral detection (out to the close sides of the vehicle) as the Model A.
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Does weather affect performance? 
The system has been designed to prevent water, salt, temperature, fog, snow or rain from influencing it. Understand that ice collecting on the sensors could cause false
readings. If this happens, simply wipe off the sensors. Additionally, the TailGauge vehicle backup sensor system is
the only vehicle backup system designed to ignore leaves, trash and junk that might otherwise cause a false alarm. No other product does that!
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We have bad winters. How will salt and ice affect the system over time?
We've already thought of that. The sensors are made out of tire rubber, and the sensor eyes are marine stainless steel. The cabling is moisture and salt proof, and the special adhesive tape is outdoor
rated. In fact, we have field tested in Canada. You should have no problems.
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How about leaves and debris in the roadway?
We are unique with our system designs. ALL of our products are specially programmed to ignore such "objects" as snow flakes, rain, leaves, trash, etc. Our systems are very smart. This is just one
feature that separates us from the competition.
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How large must objects be in order to be detected?
The system will detect non-moving objects as small as 6 inches wide at 3 to 5 feet. People (even little ones) can be detected as far away as
5 feet depending on conditions.
Large objects (6 feet wide and wider) will usually be detected starting at about 6- 8
feet. Objects 2 feet wide will usually be detected starting at about 6 - 8
feet. Objects 4"- 8" wide will usually be detected starting at about 5 - 7
feet. Objects 2" wide will usually be detected about 3 - 5 feet on inward. Objects narrower
than 2" might not be detected beyond 3 feet. In other words, a telephone pole or fire hydrant will likely be detected about 5 - 7
feet out. A metal sign post will likely be detected from about 4 feet out inward. A child should be detected at about
3 - 5 feet or closer. These are estimates but tend to be correct.
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How close will the system work to a given object and will
the system warn me if I am about to hit something as I back up?
The system will detect objects as close up as 6 to 9 inches.
Model A has a small (2 inch wide) speaker that uses a female voice to tell you the distance from an obstacle.
When you get within 6 to 9 inches from an obstacle the unit will warn you by saying the word "Crash". The speaker can be mounted in any convenient location near the driver, either hidden or visible.
To hear what the Model A sounds like click here.
All TailGauge systems react in this way because they assume that your vehicle is about to hit, or crash into an obstacle.
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SENSOR-RELATED QUESTIONS
How many sensors should I use on my vehicle, and must I use all three sensors?
If your vehicle is a standard sedan or hatchback (average width), it will be perfect to use the three sensors that come standard with each kit. If, however, you are dealing with a wider vehicle, like a cube truck or Hummer, we would strongly recommend
adding a fourth sensor to prevent a gap in coverage area. The good news is that our Series V (Model V & V-SA) systems are designed to handle an additional 4th sensor through the use of an adaptor.
TailGauge is the only product on the market designed to easily adapt to 4 sensors.
Check out our accessories page for details.
Although the systems will work with only one, two or three sensors installed,
using three sensors works best. Obviously, you need to use your judgment regarding how many to use, where you want them placed and how you want to mount them. The kit leaves you with many options. Since people use these systems for so many purposes
(backing up, hooking up a trailer, parallel parking, watching for children or other obstacles, etc.), most of this depends on the design of your vehicle and what it is that you want the system to do for you. We give you complete flexibility. Keep in mind. Each sensor provides a given area of coverage.
If you are doing a basic install on a sedan or other standard car, and do not use all three sensors on your rear bumper in your installation, you will likely create gaps in the rear coverage area. For this reason, we strongly recommend using all three sensors.
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There are three sensors and three sensor ports. In what order should I hook up the sensors, and should I keep track of which sensor is connected to which port?
You may hook up the sensors in any order you want. You can keep track of which sensor goes to which port, but you don't need to. Regardless of which model you purchase, each kit comes standard with three sensors, with a fourth sensor available as an option for wider vehicles (at additional cost). Each
sensor has a line chord and plug. Each kit also comes with a power unit that contains three sockets, one for each sensor. As you install any of our kits, it does not matter which sensor is plugged in first, second or third, nor does it matter which sensor is plugged into which socket. Your system will
work the same regardless.
Tip: If you are testing your system and wish to determine at a later time which sensor line corresponds to which sensor, you may at any time, AS LONG AS THE SYSTEM POWER IS OFF WHILE DISCONNECTING WIRES, unplug any combination of one or more sensors. As long as the system is not powered, you cannot hurt
anything by doing this. Upon disconnection, simply test the sensors. Those not working are the ones obviously unplugged. We do recommend using all sensors with each kit to ensure complete coverage behind your vehicle. Note: Disconnecting cables while the system is powered CAN DAMAGE YOUR UNIT.
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How far from the ends of the bumper can I mount the sensors and why?
We recommend mounting the sensors about 6" from the ends of the bumper. Why? Because the sensors are designed to provide specific "peripheral vision." By mounting the sensors just a bit inward from
the ends, you provide just the right "vision."
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How close together can I place the sensors?
Mount them between 18" and 24" apart (approx.). If you mount them too far apart, you will create gaps in detection ability between sensors. If you mount them too close together (usually closer than
18"), you could create interference between sensors. (and falsing). This is a relatively easy process, but we do recommend that you experiment a little before permanently attaching the sensors.
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As I am installing my system, how high should I install the sensors off the ground?
The ideal height is 18 - 24" off the ground. If you mount them too high, you might miss detecting something low to the ground. If you mount them too low, the sensors might inadvertently see the ground and false. It is preferable not to mount them lower than 18" from the
ground. If your installation requires installing the sensors below 18" from the ground, you will need to tilt/aim the sensors upwards a little to prevent them from detecting the ground. The exact angle of tilt will take some experimentation. There is no specific way to do this as each vehicle and
bumper is different. One option is to use the sensor hangers that are included with each kit.
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Is there any way to hide or camouflage the sensors so that they are not noticeable on my vehicle?
Yes. Each kit comes with sensor covers that can be painted and placed permanently over each sensor once it is mounted on your vehicle. These covers are designed to be painted
to match the color of your car or truck. It’s that simple. Using the cover is completely optional and is for cosmetic purposes only. We recommend using three dots of silicone adhesive, available in any hardware store, to attach the covers to the sensors. Make sure that no adhesive touches the metal
sensor buttons.
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My vehicle has a step in the middle of the bumper. How do I mount the sensor on my vehicle?
Many vehicles have bumpers that include a middle step [see picture below]. These include box trucks, pickup trucks, some vans, etc. Keep in mind, that the center sensor does
not necessarily need to be mounted the same height as the outer sensors. On those vehicles with bumper steps, you do have the option of mounting the center sensor on or near the top the license plate. This works exceptionally well, as the system will adapt to the different mounting height without any
problem. This solution allows you to maintain complete rear coverage, while protecting the sensor from being kicked as you use the step. In addition, for those of you who have pickup or open bed trucks, we do have a power unit cover (part number – CO101 ) that allows you to mount the power unit under
the vehicle while protecting it from rain or moisture.
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Can you find the sensors mounted on this truck?
Click on the picture to find out.
(This will cause a pop-up window to appear.)
INSTALLATION-RELATED QUESTIONS
To view a video showing installed components click here.
This video requires RealPlayer®
(If you do not have RealPlayer®click
here to download it)
Is TailGauge hard to install?
All TailGauge backup sensor systems are very easy to install. We have experimented by giving units to untrained persons to act as "guinea pigs". On all installations we
have tested this way, on the average car, these untrained persons installed the kits in about two hours. If you do not wish to do the install yourself, we recommend bringing the kit to your automotive service mechanic familiar with your vehicle. They should have no problem understanding exactly what to
do.
To make things even easier, by going to
Click here to see installation instructions you
will find downloadable instruction information that you can give to the installer in advance of receipt of the kit.
MORE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS ARE INCLUDED WITH THE PRODUCT.
Also, to see how TailGauge looks installed on an number of different vehicles click here.
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At this time we are developing a list of companies we are confident can properly install TailGauge systems according to our specifications. Click here to view the list.
Do you provide vehicle specific installation help?
TailGauge does not provide vehicle-specific support for a
variety of reasons. The primary one is that the variety of makes and
models (including intra-model year changes) and the variety of trim
packages that each manufacturer offers make it difficult to provide this
type of specific advice. However, all of our systems are designed to
install easily in the average car, van, light truck, pickup, bus, etc.
In Addition:
The variety of layouts of electrical systems, even in the
same vehicle model, means that any such advice could be inaccurate.
Likewise, we are unable to provide vehicle-specific installation support
for issues including where to run the cables, how to remove the
door/ceiling liners/carpeting, etc. However, our customers have found that
the installation information in our manuals (provided with every kit) has
been sufficient and helpful for most installations. In those exceptional
cases where expert help is needed, we provide support to qualified
technicians who are already familiar with the electrical systems of the
vehicles on which they work.
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I have a lease. Does installation require drilling?
No it is not required. There are three mounting options; running wires down the bumper, using SUPPLIED installation brackets, or drilling through the bumper. The method you use is completely up to
you.
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How much time does it take to install?
Installation is easy. On the average car, it takes between two and three hours (assuming you have no experience with the installation).
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How do I test my system before permanently installing it on my car?
It is always recommended to test the entire system before permanently installing it. Testing sensor positioning is the most important aspect of testing the system. Keep in mind, these sensors are
designed to last years on a vehicle. Once you permanently secure them, they are very hard to move.
In order to test a system, take all three sensors and place them (do NOT expose the adhesive tape from the sensors at this time. Keep the protective paper intact.) on the vehicle where you think you want them. Hold them in place with a strip of masking tape, running the tape from top to bottom, across
the sensor, between the two sensor "eyes." Then, temporarily connect all three sensors and the speaker (Model A only) to the power unit. With this done, hook up the power unit to any car 12 volt fused source. At this point, you can not only test the system to be sure everything is working, but you can
make sure the sensors are picking up what you want them to see. You may need to adjust the sensor placement as you play with the installation. Once you know where you want them, you may want to mark the positioning.
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Your website talks about mounting the power unit (little box for the Model A) in the rear tail light assembly area. How exactly do I do this?
Since cars vary in design, there are no exact instructions here. But in all installations, the concept is absolutely the same. First of all, you want to keep the power unit dry...away from moisture. Second, you want it as close as possible to the
backup (reverse) light assembly of the car so that it is in close proximity to a power source that is active when the car is put into reverse. This is to enable you to tap into this power source with the red wire (all models). Third, you want it close enough to the sensors so that you can run all
three sensor cables to the power unit without the need for an extension cable.
TailGauge comes with connection cables long enough for installation in most vehicles. Please note that the Model A uses the RJ22 handset modular plugs.
In order to help you make you installation even easier, TailGauge offers several accessory options, for the Series A units including cable replacement sensors and extension cables.
Take a look and see if there is anything that might help you with your installation.
Also note that if you build your own extensions the wire order MUST be reversed when you insert them into one of the modular plug ends. On a 4 conductor (sensor) extension this means that the wires are inserted in the
following order black, red, green, yellow on one end and yellow, green, red, black on the other end (see diagram below).
Fourth, you want to make sure that in the mounting process, you secure the power unit neatly and out of the way so as not to obstruct any of the light bulbs in the housing from view. Overall, this is usually a very easy installation step. Once you have
found a suitable location for mounting, either wire tie it in place or secure it with good quality Velcro.
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Are there any rules or suggestions for running wires, either to the front of the car or to the power unit?
There are only a few. First, when running any cable (the speaker for the Model A), from front to rear of the vehicle, we suggest you run the cable behind either the headliner (ceiling cloth) trim or the floor trim. This makes installation very easy.
Remember not to allow any wires to rub up against sharp metal or screws that you might come upon (this is a common finding behind plastic trip pieces anywhere on a car), for sharp metal edges can easily scrape and damage the cables. Second, when running any cables or wires, ESPECIALLY THE SENSOR CABLES,
we recommend not wrapping these wires around existing car factory wiring. It certainly will not hurt to touch or bundle the sensor wires, and then wire tie or tape the bundle to the factory wires, but DO NOT wrap kit wires around factory wires, for this can create an electromagnetic field that can cause
your TailGauge system to malfunction.
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What is the best way to mount the Model A speaker in my car?
This is entirely up to you. We have designed the speaker anywhere in the passenger compartment of your car that you desire. It's up to you. We suggest mounting it either under the dash or on the area near your window behind the rear seats. Some
people have found it useful to mount the speaker on the space between the front and rear doors on the driver's side, at or about head height, which allows for easy volume control.. Figuring this out is part of the fun of the install!
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Troubleshooting Installations.
Click here to go to a separate page with TailGauge Installation Troubleshooting help.
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What if I need to return a defective part?
Although our customers rarely have problems with our products, to receive service or a replacement product under our warranty, contact us
customerservice@tailgauge.com to obtain a Service Authorization Number (SAN).
After you have obtained a Service Authorization Number, be sure to write it in large letters on the outside of the box above the shipping label. Please send the product or part postage paid with a copy of our Product
Service Form
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Product Return Policy
If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we would like the opportunity to work with you to resolve your issues and ensure that your experience with TailGauge leaves you satisfied. If you have any issues with a product, please
email us at
customerservice@tailgauge.com. We are here to assist you.
After talking with our Customer Service Department, in the event you wish to return your item, here are a few things you should know:
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Within 30 days of your order you may return your TailGauge kit, all parts complete and in new condition, including original packaging and paperwork (invoice), for a refund. We do not accept incomplete kits, or items returned
more than 30 days after their date of purchase. Please call to acquire a Return Authorization Number.
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The credit card used for the original purchase of any item is the same card that will be credited for any returns. Your credit card will be credited when we have received, inspected and processed the returned item. The refund
will include the purchase price of the item and any applicable sales tax, excluding all shipping and handling costs. Please allow an additional 14-28 days for the credit to appear on your credit card statement.
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There is an address specifically designated for returns. TailGauge is not responsible for orders shipped to the wrong address.
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The customer or purchaser is responsible for the cost of shipping their unit back to TailGauge, Inc.
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Please note. The Return Authorization number
that you were given by Customer Service must be clearly marked on the
front of the package when shipped. We're
sorry, but we cannot guarantee credit for orders that are not returned in accordance with our return policy.
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No returns on custom-built products such as the TailGauge Sensor Bar.
To receive service, to return an item or to receive a replacement product under our warranty,
email us at returns@tailgauge.com to obtain a Service Authorization Number (SAN). After you have obtained a
Service Authorization Number, be sure to write it in large letters on the outside of the box above the shipping label. Please send the product or part postage paid with a copy of our Product Service Form and proof of purchase (copy of your TailGauge
invoice) to:
SERVICE DEPARTMENT
TailGauge, Inc.
256 New Mark Esplanade
Rockville MD 20850-2733.
Please Note: This is our Service Department, not a showroom. It is not open to the public.
Note: We recommend shipping your package via UPS or FedEx so that you can track your package without requiring a signature for proof of delivery. Requiring a signature may delay our receiving your package and subsequent service.
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Disclaimer: The TailGauge Vehicle Backup Sensor System is strictly a driver assistance device. It should not be considered as a safety device for any other purposes. It is not a substitute for driver responsibility when operating a vehicle. Please follow
all local and federal laws when backing up your vehicle. Manufacturer and distributors of the TailGauge
Vehicle Backup Sensor System do not guarantee or assume liability for collisions or damages that take place when backing up your vehicle.
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