[Mobile-Portable] Iron Horse 40m Ground?

[w3dya at juno.com]

Reading Tom's note was interesting.

Does anyone really believe any part of the mobile antenna (mast,
resonator, stinger) radiates RF except the mast?  I'm referring to the
top-loaded arrangement I've been using for many years:  54" Hustler mast
mounted on the rear bumper with several resonators mounted on the mast in
almost vertical position.

Recently I added 18" to the mast and mounted my resonators horizontally,
which gives me more radiation area with the 6-foot mast.  

Remember, the mast radiates, not the top-mounted coil except maybe for
the first couple of turns... and certainly not the stinger (or the spring
above the resonator coil).

I know this because county hunters have the good luck to have an antenna
expert (no exaggeration) in our group.  So I would like to see comments
on this reflector more accurately reflect what actually happens with
mobile antennas.  For example, lengthening the mast to get the resonator
higher above the cab of a pickup is good... but only because it extends
the mast above the cab.  Of course, current (and radiation) is highest at
the bottom of the mast and diminishes as it approaches the coil.

Don't look to me for any technical help or advice about antennas or
anything else electronic.  I just remember what I've been told by someone
who does know based on test results - and my mobile antenna reflects his
advise and has been very successful for me.

I promise not to disrupt your technical exchanges with BS; just wanted to
see if we have a basis for mobile antenna advice.

73, Norm, W3DYA