SK-1000 DISH on a tripod

[markf450]

I'd like to get a SK-1000 mounted on a tripod.
I don't want it mounted on the 5th wheel in case the trailer is parked in a wooded area and satellite visibility is reduced.
I was considering using the TR-1518 tripod and adapting the SK-1000 to it

There was some discussion of mounting a SK-1000 on a sheet of plywood for use on the top of a Subaru using the ska-004 and ska-008 adapters.
Would something similar be possible for my application?

Thanks

[Winegard Tech Help]

markf,

You would not be able to use the TR-1518 to mount an SK-1000 without heavily reinforcing it, and even in that case we highly recommend against doing so as you may cause damage to both units.

The TR-1518 supports a maximum weight of 15 pounds, and the SK-1000 weighs much, much more than that. The tripod is just not designed to support that much weight.

[Bill Adams]

While mounting an SK-1000 on something other than the roof of your RV is unique, it certainly can be done. As mentioned about you can't use something like the tripod you suggest but they could be a variety of other mounting options, just none that you can buy designed for such a project. In thinking about your needs, some kind of a small table somewhat larger than the base of the 1000 with sturdy foldable legs could work. Screw (attach somehow) the mount to the table top, run the cables into the coach and you are in business. One other issue you will need to address is that the control cable will not work with any existing connection in the coach so you will either need to run this cable into the coach through a window (or between the slides) once you arrive or you are going to need have a compartment outside with 120V power where the controller can be located and the control cable connected there. It does not need to be near or connected to your receiver(s) so it can be located most anywhere. The dish should be kept high enough above the ground that a good rain would not splash dirt onto the mount and since some of the electronics are inside the base of the antenna the mounting plate should be fully sealed properly with caulk to whatever platform you consider.
Good luck and let us know if you come up with a viable solution.