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Duster73 · 10-14-2021, 11:58 AM

I found some threads from about 10 years ago, but would like a little clarity. So please be understanding, as this is a new subject for us.

I have a model year 2000, and it has the original crank up antenna. I can scan the new style TV and it picks up at most, maybe 3 channels with original antenna. I do not see a switch for it to be amplified.

Then I hooked up a cheap $10 Walmart indoor flat antenna and get maybe 10-15 stations depending on direction. The campsite next to us gets 40ish stations.
I'd like to get more stations for the kids other then news channels.

-Would it be beneficial to purchase a new replacement head that goes on the original roof mount? Or is this not how the digital signal works. I am unsure of how different types of frequencies work with these.

jacwjames · 10-14-2021, 12:04 PM

The old crank up antenna usually has an amplifier the boosts the signal. There is a button though that has to be pressed for it to work. It would look something like this
https://winegard.com/products/hdtv-d...-white#gallery
Mine has a switch that turns if off/on with a LED light.

You can also add a Wingman which will boost the digital signal.

When close to metropolitan areas I can pick up dozens of channels.

MSHappyCampers · 10-14-2021, 12:06 PM

The old Wingard bat-wing crank-up antennas have a built-in amplifier. It is powered by an inside power supply built into the wall plate which will be in the cabinet with the coax switching box. It sounds like either the antenna or the power supply is defective.

I replaced our bat-wing antenna with the King Jack. It came with a power supply, but I didn't have to use it. The old power supply worked fine. The King Jack comes with a bracket that will allow it to fit perfectly on your existing mount.

OOPS! Jim beat me to the draw. Didn't mean to duplicate his good advice!

Duster73 · 10-14-2021, 12:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MSHappyCampers

The old Wingard bat-wing crank-up antennas have a built-in amplifier. It is powered by an inside power supply built into the wall plate which will be in the cabinet with the coax switching box. It sounds like either the antenna or the power supply is defective.

I replaced our bat-wing antenna with the King Jack. It came with a power supply, but I didn't have to use it. The old power supply worked fine. The King Jack comes with a bracket that will allow it to fit perfectly on your existing mount.

OOPS! Jim beat me to the draw. Didn't mean to duplicate his good advice!

I will have to look in the cabinet with the coax switching box. I glanced in there and didnt notice it but I will double check, as it was dark in there. I am glad you still posted, as I wouldnt have thought to look in there again.

Both of you have given rock solid advise. Thank you

pduggs · 10-14-2021, 12:45 PM

I agree with comments made, but don’t be so quick to replace the batwing. It is still one of the best antennas around. I regularly get stations over 50 miles away. Sometimes as much as 100 miles away. I have the wingman too.

You need to find that button. Press it then do a scan. You might use antennaweb.com to get the compass location of the stations in your area and point the batwing in that direction. It is a directional antenna. Make sure all your coaxial connections are good. If your cables are 20 years old, you might to replace with new RG6 cables.

Duster73 · 10-14-2021, 03:17 PM

Well I got home and found the button. It was behind the DVD player the previous owner installed inside the cabinet.

I tried it without fine tuning and picked up 38 stations. Boy do I feel dumb, our old camper had the switch on the roof next to the handle.

Thanks to all that posted!! As always, the best help.