My '05 doesn't have a ladder either. I hated the ladders on my previous MHs, too straight up and down. I always felt like I was hanging from it rather than just climbing it. To me they are flimsy and just something else to smash against the rain gutters on your house, ask me how I know
I bought a 12.5' Extend and Climb telescoping ladder, Amazon and about $150. It collapses to 32'H x 20"w x 4''thick. Fits perfectly in a bin and weighs about 20lbs. It can be extended to any height between collapsed and 12.5' so it works for putting on window shades etc.
I have the Winegard Travl'r, it's roof mounted and I like it. But, if I was going to do it again I think I'd go with one of the portable tailgater type automatic dishes. I've gotten into several camp sites that were under trees and my dish was of no use. In those instances a portable dish would have been nice to have. They are also a lot cheaper. Just my thoughts and I'm sure others will have opinions also.
You might take the plate off the TV/Aux Sat box and check those connectors or even just by pass them and see if the signal changes.