First Impressions of Winegard SKA-008 Trav’Ler Mounting Plate
The Winegard SKA-008 Trav’Ler Mounting Plate isn’t the sexiest piece of gear, but for RV enthusiasts looking to reliably mount their satellite dishes, it’s a critical component. Manufactured by Winegard, this mounting plate is designed to provide extra support, particularly for RVs with thinner roofs. It’s an optional accessory for the Winegard Trav’Ler series of satellite dishes, intended to make installation easier and more secure.
My problem was a bit unique: I was retrofitting an older RV with a modern satellite system, and the existing roof structure was… less than ideal. I needed a solution that would distribute the weight and stress of the Winegard Trav’Ler dish across a wider area than the standard mounting hardware allowed. The Winegard SKA-008 Trav’Ler Mounting Plate seemed like the perfect answer.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the heft of the plate. It was solid, reassuringly heavy-duty, and obviously made from quality materials. The plate’s finish looked durable, suggesting it could withstand years of exposure to the elements. My initial thought was, “This is overkill,” followed quickly by, “This is exactly what I need.”
I considered alternatives like fabricating my own mounting plate or using a generic RV reinforcement kit. But the custom fit and engineered design of the Winegard SKA-008 Trav’Ler Mounting Plate ultimately won me over. It felt like a more professional and reliable solution, minimizing the risk of future problems. I was excited that this would add the stability I desperately needed!
Real-World Testing: Putting Winegard SKA-008 Trav’Ler Mounting Plate to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was my own driveway, a relatively controlled environment for tackling this RV project. The installation, while not exactly plug-and-play, was surprisingly straightforward with the aid of the included instructions. Even though it’s an optional piece, the difference in stability was noticeable immediately after installing the Winegard SKA-008 Trav’Ler Mounting Plate in conjunction with the Winegard Trav’Ler dish.
I tested it under simulated wind conditions by giving the mounted dish a good shake. The mounting plate distributed the force effectively, preventing any noticeable flexing or strain on the roof. There weren’t any surprises with the first installation experience, just a heightened sense of security.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use and a few thousand miles on the road, the Winegard SKA-008 Trav’Ler Mounting Plate has proven its worth. There have been no signs of wear and tear, no loosening of bolts, and no issues with the satellite dish alignment. It has also survived a severe thunderstorm with high winds.
Maintaining the plate has been effortless. It’s essentially a set-it-and-forget-it component. Compared to my previous experience with less robust mounting solutions, this is a night-and-day difference. The peace of mind knowing that the satellite dish is securely mounted is worth every penny.
Breaking Down the Features of Winegard SKA-008 Trav’Ler Mounting Plate
Specifications
The Winegard SKA-008 Trav’Ler Mounting Plate is designed specifically for use with Winegard Trav’Ler series satellite dishes. Its purpose is to provide additional support and reinforcement when mounting these dishes on RV roofs, especially those with thinner construction. The plate itself is constructed from heavy-gauge, weather-resistant material.
This ensures longevity and protection against the elements. It is designed for a quick and simple installation.
Performance & Functionality
The Winegard SKA-008 Trav’Ler Mounting Plate excels at its primary function: reinforcing the satellite dish mount. By distributing the weight and stress across a wider area, it prevents damage to the RV roof. The performance is reliable and consistent, providing a stable platform for the satellite dish.
The biggest strength is the added stability, while a potential weakness is the added weight to the roof. It definitely meets my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Winegard SKA-008 Trav’Ler Mounting Plate is simple yet effective. The materials used are robust, and the overall build quality is excellent. The added weight is a trade-off for the increased stability.
It is a user-friendly design as long as you are familiar with RV modifications.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its heavy-duty construction, the Winegard SKA-008 Trav’Ler Mounting Plate should last for many years. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional inspection and cleaning. The weather-resistant finish helps prevent rust and corrosion.
This plate should last as long as the RV itself.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Winegard SKA-008 Trav’Ler Mounting Plate doesn’t come with many accessories, as it’s a fairly simple component. However, it is compatible with all Winegard Trav’Ler series satellite dishes. There are no specific customization options available, but it can be painted to match the RV’s roof.
Other than painting, there aren’t really any other customizations that come to mind.
Pros and Cons of Winegard SKA-008 Trav’Ler Mounting Plate
Pros
- Provides exceptional stability for Winegard Trav’Ler satellite dishes.
- Distributes weight effectively to prevent roof damage.
- Made from durable, weather-resistant materials for long-lasting performance.
- Designed for quick and simple installation.
- Offers peace of mind knowing the satellite dish is securely mounted.
Cons
- Adds extra weight to the RV roof.
- Relatively expensive compared to DIY solutions.
Who Should Buy Winegard SKA-008 Trav’Ler Mounting Plate?
This mounting plate is perfect for RV owners with thinner roofs who want to install a Winegard Trav’Ler satellite dish securely. It’s also ideal for those who frequently travel in areas with high winds or rough terrain. Anyone who wants a robust and reliable mounting solution should consider this product.
Those with already robust RV roofs, or those on a very tight budget and willing to fabricate their own solution, might skip this product. No must-have accessories are required, but professional installation is recommended for those unfamiliar with RV modifications.
Conclusion on Winegard SKA-008 Trav’Ler Mounting Plate
The Winegard SKA-008 Trav’Ler Mounting Plate is a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about securely mounting a Winegard Trav’Ler satellite dish on their RV. While the price may seem high, the added stability and peace of mind are well worth it. It ensures the longevity of your satellite dish and your RV roof.
I would absolutely recommend this product to other RV enthusiasts. The Winegard SKA-008 Trav’Ler Mounting Plate provides exceptional value. Get yours today and enjoy worry-free satellite TV on the road!