How to convert your Winegard to Starlink in under an hour

Written By Trina Allinotte

Enjoy Fast Internet Anywhere You Travel

If you're tired of weak campground Wi-Fi and slow cellular hotspots, Starlink is one of the best upgrades you can make to your RV. In this guide, I'll walk you through a simple Winegard-to-Starlink conversion that keeps your RV looking clean while allowing you to use the factory wiring and power switch. The best part? This setup is completely reversible. If you ever sell your RV or want to go back to the original Winegard system, you can do it in just a few minutes. Note: the step-by-step video is available as well.

What You'll Need

Before you start, gather these items:

Starlink Residential Service: Get reliable internet almost anywhere with Starlink.

Order Starlink here and get a free month after setup using this referral code:
https://starlink.com/residential?referral=RC-4658424-73469-77

Recommended Parts and Supplies

NOTE: Working on an RV roof can be dangerous. Always use caution when climbing onto your RV and ensure the roof is dry, clean, and stable before beginning any work. Wear appropriate footwear with good traction, use a sturdy ladder, and avoid working alone whenever possible. Disconnect power sources before handling electrical wiring. This article is for informational purposes only. If you are not comfortable working at heights or performing electrical modifications, consult a qualified RV technician.

Step 1: Remove the Winegard Cover

Start by removing the screws holding the Winegard cover in place.

Once the cover is off, you'll see the factory wiring and the connection points used by the Winegard system. The installation is surprisingly simple because most of the wiring you need is already there.

Step 2: Disconnect the Factory Winegard Power Wires

Inside the housing, locate the main power wire coming from the RV.

The factory Winegard power wires are connected using quick-connect terminals. Carefully disconnect these wires while noting their positions.

One advantage of this setup is that the original wiring remains intact, making it easy to switch back later if needed.

Step 3: Install the Starlink 24V DC Converter

The Starlink system requires a 24V DC converter.

Mount the converter inside the Winegard housing using an existing screw location. The converter fits nicely inside the compartment and stays secure.

For extra stability, add a piece of double-sided tape or Alien Tape underneath the converter.

Recommended Converter:
https://amzn.to/4fnjV9D

Step 4: Connect the Power Wires

Using quality wire butt connectors, connect:

  • The RV power wires

  • The DC converter power input wires

Crimp the connectors securely and double-check each connection before moving on.

Using reliable connectors helps ensure a solid electrical connection that can withstand vibration and movement during travel.

Recommended Butt Connectors:
https://amzn.to/4o4ExWf

Since the compartment is mostly protected from the weather, standard butt connectors work well for this application. However, many RV owners prefer heat-shrink or water-resistant connectors for added protection.

Step 5: Seal Any Openings

If the Starlink cable passes through an existing opening, seal around it using:

  • RV sealant

  • Silicone sealant

This prevents water from entering the roof assembly and protects your wiring from future damage.

Step 6: Secure the Wiring

Use cable clips, zip ties, or existing wire tracks to keep everything neat and secure. This step is important because the Starlink cable may be plugged and unplugged frequently. Proper wire management prevents strain on the connections.

Step 7: Mount the Converter Permanently

Apply a piece of strong double-sided tape to the bottom of the converter.

Press it firmly into place so it won't move while travelling.

We like Alien Tape because it provides a strong hold while still allowing future removal if necessary.

Step 8: Reinstall the Winegard Cover

Once all wiring is complete:

  • Verify connections

  • Check cable routing

  • Reinstall the Winegard cover

At this point, the conversion inside the housing is complete.

Step 9: Install the Starlink Roof Mount

A magnetic roof mount makes installation quick and flexible.

The Starlink dish simply plugs in and attaches to the mount, allowing you to position it where it gets the best view of the sky.

Recommended Mount:
https://amzn.to/4oj7jCV

The magnetic design also makes it easy to remove the dish when storing the RV.

Step 10: Power Up the Starlink System

One of the smartest parts of this conversion is reusing the factory Winegard power switch inside the RV. Instead of turning on the old Winegard antenna, the switch now powers the Starlink system.

Benefits include:

✅ Easy on/off control
✅ Reduced battery drain when not in use
✅ No need for additional switches or wiring

Simply flip the switch, open the Starlink app, and begin online setup.

Why This Conversion Works So Well

This modification offers several major advantages:

Cleaner Installation: No additional holes or messy wiring inside the RV.

Easy to Reverse: You can reconnect the original Winegard system in just a few minutes.

Better Power Management: The factory switch lets you shut down Starlink when you're not using it.

Reliable Internet: Starlink provides significantly better performance than campground Wi-Fi in most locations.

Final Thoughts

Converting your RV's Winegard system to Starlink is one of the best upgrades you can make for remote work, streaming, navigation, and staying connected while travelling. The installation is straightforward, uses existing wiring, and can be reversed if needed. With a quality DC converter and a secure roof mount, you'll have a clean and professional-looking setup that delivers fast internet wherever your adventures take you.

Ready to Upgrade?

Order Starlink and get a free month here after sign up:
https://starlink.com/residential?referral=RC-4658424-73469-77

Recommended Starlink DC Converter:
https://amzn.to/4fnjV9D

Recommended magnetic Starlink RV Mount:
https://amzn.to/4oj7jCV

Installation Accessories:
https://amzn.to/3PzdB4p

https://amzn.to/4o4ExWf

Trina Allinotte
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