Actually in testing we did ... front mounted was actually a little bit better in impeadance than the rear mounted. (we took two screwdrivers.. on on back one on front and tested 'em) Of course we noted the different pattern but it seems that with the low profile of the hood vs the high profile of the camper cap... the signal strenght was a little greater on the front at the other end.
As to noise... no difference. Seems the tail pipe was a bigger problem than having it up around the engine compartment. The hood is a pretty good shield....
As to grounding... front / rear the same frame runs through it.. so to speak
So we sat down and designed up a couple of tabs to be welded on the front brush guard after seeing a heard of cabover campers with antennas mounted on the front and not the back. If you want we can pass them along... as we have one side for the screwdriver/HF and the other side for the UHF/VHF antennas. (CB could be placed their also)
As to using it for a height detector.. well about the time you see it hit.. its too late for the rest at 60 mph... but it does let you know to pucker up... when it hits.. grin...
No matter which antenna you have... either front or rear.. they are not what one calls pretty... to the XYL. But, I am sure if you show her a bicycle and the pax seat in the truck..and ask her to chose for the trip.. she will make the right decision.. with you... grin
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