I guess if I paid more attention to the power up sequence I'd be able to lock it down? I've had the docked iPad not see the DL on startup. Gonna re-read the FAQ .
It's been a few days since I used it last, but usually for me..
Power up Router (AirPort Express) - always wait for it to settle down (green LED steady)
Power up DL, which lights up the docked iPad. (usually powered off)
Load MF on docked iPad - wait for it to sync (or sink?) Always has.
Et Voila.
Then I connect the wireless iPad (always check to see if it sees the AirPort) and load MF. I have to tell it to connect to the DL by going into the Device Page and select the available device.
This has worked everytime to date. It may all go south on me one day, of course.