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martipr's avatar
martipr
Explorer
Nov 30, 2014

Tailgater Problem

I modified the my TV antenna amplifier plate to work with Dish receiver. Connected coax from dish on tripod, worked good after I finally got it aimed, but a real hassle aiming dish after every move. Decided a Tailgater which self aims would be great. I connect the coax from the Tailgater to the cable inlet on the RV. Works until I change channel then flashes error message "Complete Signal Loss". After much channel flipping and other shenanigans it usually gets the new channel. Called Dish, after much "hold please", talking to lower level help then finally a real technician, he said there cannot be any connectors between the Tailgater and receiver, just one straight coax. Didn't believe him but tried running one straight coax through an open window and it worked perfectly. Problem now, how to use one coax without an open window or door. Tried closing the door on the coax which worked for a while until it damaged the coax.
Any one else have this problem? How did you solve it? Any suggestions?

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  • otrfun's avatar
    otrfun
    Explorer II
    Nov 30, 2014
    When you "modified" the "TV Antenna Amplifier Plate", did you make sure the coax that's connected to the Tailgater bypasses ALL the circuitry on the "TV Antenna Amplifier Plate"? Otherwise, the TV Antenna Amplifier Plate" may block power (completely or partially) from the Dish Receiver to the Tailgater. The coax from the Tailgater to the Dish Receiver accomplishes two things: 1) it passes the satellite signal, and 2) it allows the Dish Receiver to supply power to the Tailgater.

    It's best to not have any connectors between the Tailgater and the Dish Receiver to reduce signal loss. However, it should still work with connectors--assuming you've got good, solid connections.

    It's possible some of your connections/connectors in your TT are faulty/intermittent, and/or the coax from the Tailgater is not completely bypassing your "TV Antenna Amplifier Plate".
  • AllegroD's avatar
    AllegroD
    Nomad
    Nov 30, 2014
    Chief,

    Does AOC=Another Old Chief (or Aviation Ordinance Chief).

    Do you use external power? If not, you might have a power problem, due to high cable impedance. Try running the Tailgater directly to the receiver and see if that works well.

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