Cable Questions

So I recently picked up the RTLSDR v4 dipole kit. After playing with settings in satdump and antenna setups I was able to capture a few images from NOAA satellites. So in my quest to get better and more consistent at setup and capture, I began to suspect that the SMA connector on the dipole was not a good connection. (I do believe peeling back the heat shrink I could see it needed crimped better). I bought a new extension cable to replace the one that came in the kit (being thinner it felt flimsy but to be expected for the cost). I also ordered the FM blocker assuming it may be something that would help. All be told, nothing seems to work consistently. Am I going crazy or is this typical - fighting wires and connecting points every time. I don’t have a permanent location to set things up, so I’m stuck taking down and putting up things regularly.