Installation instructions for Clearview accessories such as Power Boards and Towing Mirrors are designed to ensure proper functionality, safety, and durability. These products are engineered for specific vehicle models and require precise installation to maintain their performance and reliability. The instructions emphasize the importance of professional installation, particularly for models that involve vehicle trim removal, electrical work, and bracket alignment. This article provides a detailed overview of the installation procedures, technical specifications, and operational features based on the documentation provided by Clearview.
The Clearview Power Boards are electric side steps that automatically deploy and retract in response to vehicle door sensors. They are compatible with the Nissan Patrol Y62 (2013–current) and offer a load capacity of 300 kg. The Towing Mirrors, specifically designed for the Toyota Land Cruiser 100 Series, provide enhanced visibility for towing by extending up to 7 inches and offer integrated electronic adjustability using stock controls. The installation of both products involves careful routing of wiring, alignment of brackets, and secure fastening using specified hardware.
This article will explore the installation process for both products, highlighting key steps, tools required, and potential issues that may arise during the fitting process. It will also cover operational features such as deployment mechanisms, safety features, and troubleshooting steps for minor failures. The goal is to provide a comprehensive technical reference for professionals and DIY users who are considering or have already begun the installation of these Clearview products.
Installation Overview for Clearview Power Boards
The Clearview Power Boards are designed to enhance vehicle accessibility by automatically deploying and retracting when the vehicle doors are opened or closed. The installation process involves several key steps, including the removal of interior trim, routing of wiring, and mounting of motor brackets. These steps are detailed in the official installation manual provided by Clearview and are intended to be performed by a qualified technician.
One of the first steps in the installation process is the removal of the driver-side interior trim, including the door sill panels and kick panel. This is necessary to access the wiring and sensor connectors that will be used to activate the Power Boards. The manual explicitly states that this step should be performed by a professional, as incorrect installation may lead to vehicle damage or personal injury.
Once the interior trim is removed, the wiring for the door sensors must be routed along the sill channel to the B and C pillars. This involves connecting the sensor wires to the rear of the door switches, which are responsible for triggering the Power Boards. The installation instructions also mention the use of a straight-edge tool to align the mounting brackets accurately. This ensures that the Power Boards are installed at the correct angle and position, allowing for smooth deployment and retraction.
After the wiring is properly connected, the motor brackets are mounted to the vehicle using M8 bolts, flat washers, and spring washers. The manual specifies that the bolts should be tightened to the correct torque to prevent loosening over time. In some cases, U-shaped packing washers may be required to adjust the positioning of the brackets and ensure that the Power Boards are correctly aligned with the vehicle body.
The installation instructions also include steps for testing the functionality of the Power Boards. Once installed, the user should open the vehicle door to deploy the Power Boards and close the door to test the retraction mechanism. If the Power Boards do not deploy or retract correctly, the manual suggests checking the wiring connections and adjusting the brackets as needed.
Technical Specifications and Safety Features
The Clearview Power Boards are engineered to provide reliable and safe operation under a variety of conditions. The product is rated for a load capacity of 300 kg, making it suitable for use by multiple passengers or in heavy-duty applications. The motors are rated IP68, which means they are fully protected against dust and water ingress. This ensures that the Power Boards can operate effectively in all weather conditions and over rough terrain.
Another key safety feature is the automatic deployment and retraction mechanism. The Power Boards are triggered by the vehicle’s door sensors, which means they will only deploy when the door is opened and will retract when the door is closed. This prevents the Power Boards from being left extended in situations where they could pose a tripping hazard or interfere with the vehicle’s movement.
The installation manual also includes a safety cutoff feature, which is designed to prevent the Power Boards from deploying or retracting in the event of a minor failure. This feature is intended to protect both the vehicle and the user from potential damage or injury. In the event of a minor failure, the company reserves the right to choose to repair or replace the product, as stated in the warranty documentation.
Installation Overview for Clearview Towing Mirrors
The Clearview Towing Mirrors are designed to provide enhanced visibility when towing large or extended cargo. These mirrors are available in two versions: the Original Gen and the Next Gen. The Next Gen mirrors are a newer design that sits closer to the vehicle when not extended and offer improved adjustability using the stock mirror controls. The installation process for these mirrors is designed to be straightforward, with the product being a full OE replacement for the Toyota Land Cruiser 100 Series.
The installation instructions state that the Towing Mirrors can be installed using the original cutouts, fittings, and wiring of the vehicle. This means that no additional cutting, drilling, or wiring is required, making the installation process simpler and less invasive. The mirrors are mounted using the existing mounting points and connectors, which ensures that the installation is secure and does not affect the integrity of the vehicle’s body.
One of the key features of the Clearview Towing Mirrors is the ability to extend the mirror head up to 7 inches when towing. This extension provides a wider field of view, which is essential for maintaining visibility around large or extended cargo. When not in use, the mirrors can be retracted back into the vehicle, reducing wind resistance and improving the vehicle’s aesthetics.
The installation instructions also mention that the lower convex mirror can be adjusted to provide a complete view of the rear tires. This feature is particularly useful for off-road applications, where visibility of the vehicle’s tires is essential for navigating rough terrain. The mirrors are also designed to be fully adjustable using the stock controls, allowing the user to customize the mirror position to their specific needs.
Tools and Materials Required for Installation
The installation of both the Clearview Power Boards and Towing Mirrors requires a set of specific tools and materials to ensure that the process is completed correctly and safely. For the Power Boards, the installation instructions mention the use of a straight-edge tool for aligning the mounting brackets. This tool is essential for ensuring that the Power Boards are installed at the correct angle and position, allowing for smooth deployment and retraction.
In addition to the straight-edge tool, the installation of the Power Boards also requires a set of M8 bolts, flat washers, and spring washers. These components are used to secure the motor brackets to the vehicle and must be tightened to the correct torque to prevent loosening over time. The installation manual also mentions the use of U-shaped packing washers in some cases, which are used to adjust the positioning of the brackets and ensure that the Power Boards are correctly aligned with the vehicle body.
For the Towing Mirrors, the installation process is less complex and does not require additional tools beyond the standard installation kit. The mirrors are designed to be installed using the existing mounting points and connectors, which means that no additional cutting, drilling, or wiring is required. The installation instructions also mention that the mirrors can be adjusted using the stock mirror controls, which are part of the vehicle’s standard equipment.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance
Both the Clearview Power Boards and Towing Mirrors are designed to be durable and reliable, but like any mechanical or electrical system, they may occasionally experience minor issues. The installation manuals provide guidance on troubleshooting and maintenance to help users identify and resolve common problems.
For the Power Boards, the manual suggests checking the wiring connections if the Power Boards do not deploy or retract correctly. This can be done by ensuring that the sensor wires are properly connected to the rear of the door switches and that the motor brackets are correctly aligned. In some cases, the U-shaped packing washers may need to be adjusted to ensure that the Power Boards are correctly positioned.
The manual also mentions that the Power Boards should be tested by opening and closing the vehicle door to verify that the deployment and retraction mechanisms are functioning correctly. If the Power Boards do not respond as expected, the user should check the wiring and adjust the brackets as needed.
For the Towing Mirrors, the installation manual does not provide specific troubleshooting steps, but it does mention that the mirrors are designed to be fully adjustable using the stock controls. If the mirrors do not respond to the controls, the user should check the wiring and ensure that the connectors are properly seated. In the event of a minor failure, the company reserves the right to choose to repair or replace the product, as stated in the warranty documentation.
Conclusion
The Clearview Power Boards and Towing Mirrors are high-quality accessories designed to enhance vehicle functionality and safety. The installation process for these products is detailed in the official manuals provided by Clearview and is intended to be performed by qualified professionals. The Power Boards require careful routing of wiring, alignment of brackets, and secure fastening using specified hardware, while the Towing Mirrors are designed to be installed using the existing mounting points and connectors.
Both products offer key safety features such as automatic deployment and retraction mechanisms, load capacity ratings, and IP68-rated motors. These features ensure that the accessories can operate effectively in all weather conditions and over rough terrain. The installation manuals also provide guidance on troubleshooting and maintenance to help users identify and resolve common issues.
For users considering the installation of these Clearview products, it is important to follow the provided instructions carefully and ensure that all steps are completed correctly. This will help to ensure that the accessories function as intended and provide the desired level of performance and reliability.