[Antennas] Have I created a counterpoise, when what I need is a ground?

Sat Oct 29 06:12:55 EDT 2005

 For several years I have used a Hamstick mobile when activating 
 lighthouses, as well as portable operation with a Buddipole. The 
 Hamstick was mounted on top of my vehicle with a magnetic mount, which 
 was grounded to the roof, and the rig inside was grounded to the chassis.
 All such operating is "stationary mobile."

 Recently, I have noticed that when using either a Hamstick or Valor 
 AB5T, mounted as above, the SWR is lower when the rig is grounded and 
 the antenna is NOT ... and, for that matter, the rig works fine with 
 no ground at either end.

 This defies logic, and I would appreciate some input from others who 
 use mobile antennas, particularly with magnetic mounts.

 For that matter, has anyone operated stationary mobile and driven a 
 rod into the ground in order to obtain an earth ground.

 Comments from any of you regarding this will be greatly appreciated.

 Jim Buffington, K5JIM