VCR use with Satellite TV

Recently had Dish network installed but am perplexed how to use my VCR with the system. We have 2 dual satellite receivers and 4 TV's connected. I'm confident the installer hooked the VCR to the receivers as I can view live TV with the VCR on. Also, apparently by accident I did once successully rocord smt off my satellite. With the VCR on I need to set TV to #4. When VCR not on need to set the TV to #73. I'm unable to record though. I turn on VCR and set the TV on 4 and then set VCR timer to record on 73. Then turn VCR off and set TV to 73 and move to the program I wish to record. All I seem to record is static/snow. Is there a "guid for 67 year old dummies"