FC Posted September 22, 2023 Report Share Posted September 22, 2023 I’ve been reading about truck aerodynamics. I’m on the way to Texas with my 2029 Ram 2500 diesel, and heavily loaded 16’ enclosed trailer. Normally I get 9-10 mpg, unless close behind a semi. I added these scraps to my enclosed trailer’s top and sides. Right now I’m getting 10.8 average mpg. Let’s see if that continues! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dr.Hess Posted September 22, 2023 Report Share Posted September 22, 2023 Interesting. Aerodynamics is a dark art. For experimental purposes, you can attach (tape, glue, etc.) short pieces of string or yarn to the areas you are concerned with and then drive at your target speed. For back there, have someone film the yarn and you can see what is happening. But, an extra 10% in MPG is hard to argue with. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FC Posted September 22, 2023 Author Report Share Posted September 22, 2023 Shark Tank? Good idea with the yarn. I’ve been reading on aerodynamics. The little fin on cars diverts the air. I’m like, “Why’s there nothing for enclosed trailers? I’m guessing I’ll save $50 this trip. I read that a 5 or 6 inch fin, straight back, or turned slightly inward, is needed. Hills aren’t helped by fins, of course. I think plain old Lexan would ideal. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dr.Hess Posted September 22, 2023 Report Share Posted September 22, 2023 The fins on top will help smooth things out. You see them on high end sports cars. Also, a diffuser at the bottom will help. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FC Posted September 22, 2023 Author Report Share Posted September 22, 2023 A trucker I talked to said the side skirts are required in California. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FC Posted October 23, 2023 Author Report Share Posted October 23, 2023 I fill up in Oxford, Alabama and get home with an eighth tank, at best. I have a quarter tank. 10.9 mpg, St o looks like an 8-10% increase in mileage. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dr.Hess Posted October 23, 2023 Report Share Posted October 23, 2023 Can't beat that for a few pieces of tin. Just don't bump into them when you walk back there. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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