I have a 500+ that I`d like to convert to a 1000.4 configuration. I know that there is a conversion kit as specified in the 1000.4 Installation Manual.
Where can I purchase this kit?? I`ve tried Sadoun and can`t seem to find a vendor who carries this kit. Has any forum member made this conversion and can offer comments on ease of assembly and alignment?
That "conversion" would be a complete replacement of the antenna and mast (different diameters as mentioned on this site).
There is a conversion from 500+ to 1000+ that adds the third LNB: Just a bracket and a DishPro single or dual LNB. I couldn't find any kits with a quick web search so you may need to purchase separately.
Depending on what you have for a switch right now you may also need to upgrade the switch to at least a DPP33 if you don't need 118 or a DPP44 if you need all 4 satellites. Both about $50 street price for new.
Here's the bracket part of the conversion:
NEW DISH NETWORK 129 BRACKET FOR DP 500+/1000+ LNBF HDTV | eBay
Then you need a DishPro dual or single LNB about $40 new.
So it may be less expensive to buy an new 1000.4. This comes in a Western arc and Eastern arc version. Saw one on eBay for $60 new.
I installed a 1000+ back when the original 129 satellite had low signal. It made a big difference over my 1000 (not a .2 or .4). If you don't need to upgrade the switch, adding the 129 LNB is the least expense.
If you switch to a 1000.4 you'll need to replace the entire antenna, mast and foot as the mast diameters are different. a 1000.2 is the same mast diameter and might be worth consideration.