Russ, Will,
I like the base loaded VHF antenna's from either Metz or Shakespeare. The  
base loaded units are compact, easy to install and come with their own mounting  
bracket. Once you have the wire run to wherever you decide to mount the VHF, 
it  is very easy to use a splitter and install a converter for the FM part of 
your  radio. I have this setup on RumRunner and it has been goof proof now for 
many  years. The VHF does not interfere with the FM and vise versa.
Some of the newer VHF units give you the option of mounting the radio at  the 
NAV station and then use a hand held repeater which transmits from the unit  
inside. I can punch out 12 miles without any problems.
 
Rummy