Dish Choices

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I've ID'd #2 with the help of you guys and even found a manual uploaded HERE by beavs2112. It looks to be a Channel Master Model 6336 8' SMC. The manual describes it as fiberglass with a reflective metal layer bonded within. For me, that's enough to at least give it a try so I'm going to pick it up next weekend. I intend to dismantle the panels so I can transport everything in the bed of the truck. If I can't get the inner pole out of the ground it'll have to stay behind. :)

I've been debating whether to use it solely for C-Band or try a combo C/KU, and I think I'll try the home-run and go for it all. :D I need to line up a receiver and am thinking of the MicroHD. I plan on getting this aligned for one SAT at least, then if the actuator is functional I'll see how it goes trying to move across the whole arc. If the actuator is shot, I'll have to get that replaced too. Should I just break down and figure on getting an actuator along with the receiver and LNB? Oh, the choices...
 
I'd see the old actuator before deciding.
It could be a gem; it could be a lump.
I would refurb *some* old movers before buying a cheap new one ;)

Regarding the dish, I'd say you've chosen wisely, grasshopper :)
Do read the numerous threads on cleaning, painting (only if necessary), and refurbishing them.

As for feeds, I'd probably suggest SatAV C2 dual LNBF
or C-band Ortho and run C-band only.
Probably get equal Ku on a 1 meter dish.
And for way less than dual band Ortho ! - ;)

Edit: yes, microHD receiver


posted from iPhone 4
 
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I grabbed the (#2 Channel Master) dish, LNB, mount and pole yesterday with the help of a friend. I took 75 minutes to strip it down, disassemble the reflector and get everything into the back of the truck.

The reflector surface has a very light cross-hatch pattern on the surface. I don't know if this is by design or an effect of the aging surface through the years. It's not the fiberglass reinforcing the structure. There's some moss and lichen scattered about the surface and that should come off will just a little brushing and washing. The three bottom pole pinch bolts were bound up pretty good; one twisted off, one turned out about 3 turns before freezing and the other came out. I think the ends deformed against the inner pole and damaged the threads preventing their easy removal. The outer pole was rust bound on the inner pole and had me worried. A few rounds of hammer tapping and wiggling freed it up. Everything is in good shape, but the LNB is so old there were additional wires connected besides the coax. I'm guessing that is the polarity control. I'm replacing the LNB anyway.

I've given up on the idea to use a dual C/Ku LNB on the dish, and ordered a 90cm GeoSat Pro dish, 9120B motor, and SL1 PLL LNB and switch to ultimately get them working together with the MicroHD. I need to find a positioner for the big dish and figure out the wiring scheme to get it working. Any input on running both dishes with the MicroHD is welcome.

Now I need to convince SWMBO that the view from her office window isn't that important. :) That's the perfect location to plant the dishes!
 
MicroHD- - - Diseqc switch (2 or 4 output)Or 22Khz sw---Ku and C LNBF's(if 4 output , got 2 left over for fixed dishes. Add 2nd diseqc and a 22khz sw for even more fixed dishes) See the "Switches Simplified' sticky.
I'd recommend putting the Ku up as a fixed dish and get accustomed to aiming it. Then maybe?(see attached)
 

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Can't go wrong with a Channel Master as long as it isn't warped. I repainted mine to camo it, the big white dish was too noticeable from the air and from the road nearby. Too many people asking what that big white thing was in the yard. Actually used real army green paint, what they use to paint their jeeps etc up here. Amazing how well it works, the dish almost disappears nestled in close to a row of evergreens.
 
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