What type of dome on a Duetto?

Hi there,

We have just purchased a 1998 Duetto.

After eight years of finding the satellite with "tripod and dish" (necessary on the boat as it had to be on the quayside in high winds when the boat was prone to moving) we have decided to get an automatic system.

We think that one of the "low profile" domes wouldn't look too grotesque on a Duetto but, as we intend to go as far south as Spain and Italy, we would very much like some feedback on who has what on a Duetto and how effective it is.

Best regards,

Dutto and better half

If you have sufficient roof space on the Duetto a 30cm Camos Dome will be fine for the whole of France but it won't work in Spain and not sure about Italy but I think it's outside the Astra footprint for a dome. In fact no small dish will work in Spain. In my opinion a 40cm dome wouldn't look too good.

Another consideration is the overall vehicle height. On a Duetto even a 30cm dome will probably take you over the crucial 3m height and you may be charged extra at automatic tolls.

I can well understand your reasons for an automatic dish as we had the same dilemma last year. I bit the bullet and installed a Camos Dome which has been fabulous. In your case, if the coverage area and height is an issue you may well be better off with conventional lowline dish. If you are in the southwest, Nick at Adventure Motorhomes will give you good advice.

Just noticed that you're in Lincolnshire so maybe Adventure Motorhomes aren't for you!

Nimbus

Thanks for the "less than 3m" tip.

Checked out the French peagé tariffs and was quite surprised to discover the 33% difference between Group 2 and Group 3!!

A couple of "Channel to the Med and return" journeys would cost well over the difference between a "low profile" and a "high profile" satellite dish.

Best regards,

Dutto

Hi there,

Just made arrangements to fit an automatic Oyster 85cm "does everything but knit sweaters" satellite dish, receiver and 16" TV/DVD and it will be fitted in a couple of weeks at Conrad Anderson in Birmingham.

We also decided that, while we were at Conrad Anderson's premises, we may as well have Cruise Control fitted before heading off for Scotland for a couple of weeks to check everything out.

We will keep everyone posted on the service we receive and on how everything performs (especially with regard to fuel consumption using CC).

Best regards,

Dutto

Dutto wrote:Just made arrangements to fit an automatic Oyster 85cm "does everything but knit sweaters" satellite dish . . . .

And then I got a private email asking exactly how I was going to fit an 85cm diameter satellite dish on the top of a Duetto!! The problem was that, relying on professional help, I had not even checked so I decided to go out and measure up the available space.

Conrad Anderson were very apologetic when I pointed out that they had overestimated the room available on the roof of a Duetto and they got back to me almost immediately with a revised plan.

So far so good then - just a hiccup and we now plan to fit an Oyster Caro. This tends to limit the range (Scotland to the middle of France apparently) but it will fit within the 70cm x 70cm flat and clear space available; without overhanging anywhere or fouling any of the rooflights.

I will keep you posted on how we get on with the actual fitting etc.

Best regards,

Dutto

Dutto wrote "This tends to limit the range (Scotland to the middle of France apparently) "

I used my Multimo dish successfully near Montauban which is south of the Dordogne. I know it depends on weather etc but the makers tend to be cautious.

Hi there,

Have just completed two weeks touring in Scotland with an Oyster Caro attached to an Avtex 10" TV.

Does everything it says on the tin.

Well chuffed and can recommend Conrad Anderson in Birmingham for fitting.

Best regards,

Dutto

Hi Dutto,

I am pleased it all worked out for you.

Do you have any pictures of your new sat system.

Don't climb up on the roof especially.