I'm in the process of replacing my K-Mart antenna in my 64 with a nice repro. As I started to take the old one out, I noticed that the support bracket was rusted out and the ground strap will need replacing. My question is, do I need to get a ground plate, or are they only for power antennas ?
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Re: 64 Antenna
Get a ground plate it also serves as a locating bracket for the antenna, and eases the stress on the fiberglass. -
Re: 64 Antenna
Purpose of the ground plane, is to provide a ground plane. While this sound 'flip' it's about the only way I know how to say it concisely....
Radio antenna works by forming a sympathetic resonnance 'vibration' path for electromagnetic waves (magnetic flux) radiating from broadcast station's antenna. Idea is to center the 'length' of the receiving antenna at integer multiples of the wavelength of the EMR being sent. Earth ground poses an effective 'short circuit' to airborne radiation. The effective length of the receiving antenna and coupling efficiency can be enhanced by strategically positioning a reflection point (like putting a mirror behind an incandescent light bulb).
On conventional cars/trucks, the steel body serves as this reflection plane or 'ground plane'. Corvettes lack this 'feature' due to their fiberglass construction. The ground plane below the antenna under the fender does double duty: (1) it acts to strengthen the mounting base and forestall fiberglass fatigue fracture, and (2) it provides a ground plane or reflection point for incoming radio signals.
If you remove it in an urban area, you'll see no performance difference and conclude it's an "unnecessary" part.... Without it, you'll see a noticeable difference in the quality of reception under fringe conditions. Ask the judges about their experience doing Operations Checks at last summer's National Convention in Sun Valley! Most all of the 6V Corvettes were flunking the radio portion of the ops check with owner's swearing everything worked just before.... Antenna technology was a key difference among the Corvettes present (early vs. late models).Comment
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