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Nomad Mike · 09-27-2015, 06:55 PM

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This boot is cracked and ripped and if I pull it back, the cable is visible going into the roof.

Ideally I would like to replace the boot there and at the top of the antenna. Do I need to replace the cable to do this? It looks like the boot is on the antenna first then the compression connector put on.

I'm also thinking of putting Eternabond around the whole base. Is there any reason the whole antenna ever needs replacement or is it just the top?

I'm also thinking of removing all that sealant, some of the back sides of screws right next to the moving part of the antenna look weak. Reseal the screws and plate edge with Dicor and then Eternabond over that.

Gormleys · 09-29-2015, 03:47 PM

Nomad Mike -

It sounds like you have the right ideas. Too bad Radio Shack is pretty much gone (at least around here they are far and few between). I would replace the Cable if you can. It looks pretty worn and will be introducing static if not allowing the rain in soon. As for the Mast, no - it just holds the antenna at the top. Put a good digital one on it and let it go.

Good luck with your upgrade!

Nomad Mike · 09-29-2015, 07:09 PM

The antenna is an original Winegard but has the added digital piece.

Are there better options? I'm putting a sat dish on this week so it may not matter.

Mr_D · 09-29-2015, 07:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gormleys

Put a good digital one on it and let it go.

The original batwing IS digital, adding a Wingman helps though. The term "digital" on antennas is marketing hype.

Davdeb1 · 09-29-2015, 07:27 PM

Ditto, your Winegard will pick up all digital signals. I believe the wingman $20 attachment will help get more. That's what I have.

Nomad Mike · 09-29-2015, 09:51 PM

I believe it has the Wingman.

Nomad Mike · 09-29-2015, 10:04 PM

So due to my SAT install, I have some extra Belden RG-6 cable. Any recommendations on boots and connectors. I'm going to try and get the Dish Sat guy to terminate it for me, so I don't have to buy the gear for a one time install. After all, he gets out of installing a dish and running four cables.

USMCRET · 09-30-2015, 05:17 AM

I had to replace my antenna this past season due to a severe case of cerebral flatulence. I learned a few things in the process.

First, that boot is available at either amazon or CW, or both. I don't recall which I got one from, but I ordered one online.

Secondly, that cable that disappears into the roof terminates in a cable connector a couple of feet after it ducks into the roof. You can replace that cable very easily. The hardest part is fishing it through the mast.

Have fun!

wa8yxm · 09-30-2015, 08:34 AM

Two methods to waterproof.

One (the one I'd recommend) is more Dicor lap sealant (NOT the self leveling kind) this is the stuff already sealing part of that, Just add more to cover the boot completly.

Two: Antenna Tape.. Or Rescue tape.. These are self fusing silicone tapes you can get from among other sources Publisher's Clearing house (Rescue tape) and ham radio and or electronics stores. Hold on for link.. Note: This is an electronics store: The second link is what I was specifically thinking of but the firs tone came up on the search as well.. Looks very interesting.

CONNECTOR SEALANT | All Electronics Corp.

SELF-FUSING RUBBER TAPE | All Electronics Corp.

Dutchstar08 · 10-05-2015, 07:38 PM

Here's the boot, As for cable and connector's Lowes and Home Depot have both.
If your were closer to Stockton I'd fix it for you. I have cable, connector and tools to do it.
We will be in Monterey (Laguna Seca) for Thanks Giving.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Winegard-RP-...-/181803399710
Bill

Nomad Mike · 10-05-2015, 08:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dutchstar08

Here's the boot, As for cable and connector's Lowes and Home Depot have both.
If your were closer to Stockton I'd fix it for you. I have cable, connector and tools to do it.
We will be in Monterey (Laguna Seca) for Thanks Giving.

Winegard RP 0154 RV TV Antenna Rubber Cable Boot for Gear Housing | eBay
Bill

Thank you, that's is a very kind offer.

I decided to replace the cable but could not get the connecting cable out of the roof. I could see it, just not able to get it through the hole in the antenna mount. So I pulled the entire antenna intending to fix the cable and then reseal with new Dicor and Eternabond. That led me to finding a number of other issues with the antenna. It does not look like anyone lubed it for the 10 years of its life. So the parts needed, and effort to get all of the silicone off the bottom of the plate led me to buy a new antenna. A new one for $100 and maybe I can sell the old one on Craigslist for a little of it back.

Winnebago stuffed the cable in at an angle and it was never coming out. I've fixed that now with the connector just inside the base and partly out and covered with the coax boot.