H24-100 Receiver RV setup lost local channels

Hello there. We know enjoying content from local channels is key to your viewing experience. In order to more efficiently manage DIRECTV's video transmission technology, DIRECTV is phasing out MPEG-2 SD signals that were first introduced in the 1990s. We're doing this to transition content to MPEG-4 audio and video compression, which is what is used to transmit HD signals. The phase-outs of local programming will occur on a rolling basis, market-by-market, to provide the best customer experience. All equipment from the satellite dish to the set-top box must be capable of receiving MPEG-4 HD signals. A decreasing percentage of customers currently have equipment that is only capable of using the older MPEG-2 technology. MPEG 4-capable set-top boxes and, where necessary, new satellite dishes that can access the signals are being provided to customers at no additional cost or commitment. DIRECTV aims to bring you the content you love with exceptional quality.
Christian, DIRECTV Community Specialist

The H24 is an HD-capable receiver so the only problem is your SD dish. You need to get an HD slimline directv SWM dish in order to continue receiving service as well as your local channels. If you don’t like aiming the dish everywhere, also think about the Winegard Trav’ler dish which is self-aiming (although it is a little pricey).

Thanks for the reply!  So if I don't care about HD while camping can I just point to 101 to get locals and SD or do I have to find.all 3 satellites?

Sorry, let me rephrase.  I know I will have to upgrade my dish but am trying to avoid having to aim at 3 satellites if possible.

Also, Christian I presume Directv will not give me a free Mpeg 4 Dish setup for my tripod if I bought it myself to get Directv in my rv using one of my house receivers?

Right, DIRECTV won’t give it to you, you need to buy it from a third-party. 

you would need to aim for all three satellites in order to get the right programming. However, it isn’t much of a hassle as they are all very close to each other. Once you lock 101, you also just need to do a feature called ‘dithering’ (relatively straightforward) to properly align 99 and 103. 

DirecTV's free MPEG swap only applies to what is at home. So updating the RV (such as replacing dish) is at your cost. Either a slimline SWM dish to aim yourself (lower cost option) or the Winegard Trav'ler for auto-aiming.

Good thing is an update of this magnatiude happens very rarely. So the new dish should be fine for years to come.

The local channels in some areas are moving off of the 101º satellite, so you would need a 3-LNB dish if that's the case in your area. 

Thank you all very much for your information & help.  I will try the low cost option and have ordered a Slimline SWM; however, I've made sure I can return/refund.  To increase my chances of success, I have been trying to find detailed step by step instructions and/or videos on dithering; if anybody has good references, I would appreciate a link.

Here's a video ....

https://youtu.be/QA1krU8eo8E

I got my Slimline SWM for RV (includes tripod) and was able to set it up at home and get my missing local channels.  I was surprised that the instructions that came with the dish did not have dithering instructions, nor did they recommend use of or warrant the dithering mechanisms for temporary rv setups!  I tried it anyway and was able to improve my 101 signal into the 90's.  I was a little dismayed that the instructions had no labels for the bolts so I had to watch some videos to figure some out.  I am still unsure of the bolt I have labelled "Azimuth Lock Bolt" in the photo below; I only found one video that had/used it.  Is this correct?

Don’t worry about the azimuth lock bolt. Just worry about the screw bolts (3 collar bolts that lock the dish in place).

Please use the video that @litzdog911 showed for the dithering process, it will help you. 

The thing you call the ‘Azimuth Plastic Dial’ is one of the TWO dithering bolts. The other one is to the left of the dish assembly. Currently, this picture shows the right side. When dithering, ensure that both side elevation bolts (right and left elevation bolts) are a little loose so that the dish is able to be adjusted with the dithering bolts.

Once done dithering ( your signals are amazing on 99 and 103), you may once again tighten the right and left elevation bolts and ensure that the (3) azimuth bolts are snug. That finalizes the process. 

It's easy to start the alignment process with the 101º satellite signal readings because those signals are stronger. But it's also important to dither the dish to maximize the 99 and 103º satellites as shown in the video I linked. 

Thank you.  One thing that is a little confusing is which satellite to dither on:  I've seen where some say to dither the signals on 101 only but others say to change to satellite 99 or 103 before dithering.

This site has been extremely helpful; I appreciate all the information!