Antenna Location for Fiberglass Bodyshell?

[flatspin]

Just got my Z2 which I am going to install in a 1986 Lotus Esprit which is a fiberglass bodyshell. I would like to install the GPS antenna inside, preferably directly under the fiberglass where it will not be seen. I am completely re-trimming the inside, so access to the panels is not an issue.

Can anyone advise if I need the metal panel, should I make my own larger panel, should the panel be grounded to the vehicle electrical system etc. I assume that mounting in the roof panel would be best as opposed to the hood or tailgate?

All help greatly appreciated.

[action]

You should be able to mount the antenna inside and still get a good signal. Many people around here have mounted it in the dash (some right on the HU itself). The consensus around here seems to be that using the included "foil" is good, but using a metal plate is better. I don't think grounding the metal plate will make any difference as it is just reflecting the signal. I think that the hood, tailgate, or roof are probably equally good, as long as they are all fiberglass. You may want to avoid the hood because of heat issues.

[jbhorne]

I have not read about a lot of people doing this, but in my car I get reception from many satellites and it works great. I have it mounted behind the rear-view mirror...on the back side. Ran the cable with the auto-dimming cable, up and around. As far as I am concerned, if I can see the antenna from the outside of the car, then so can the satellites. I have not had good luck with the antenna being placed under anything, others might disagree saying that radio waves penetrate, but the less the better.