First mod - Fuel Economy, Hypermiling, EcoModding News and Forum

jbliss10 · 08-26-2011, 01:50 PM

I have a stock 1993 red geo metro, 12" tires, no wheel covers. I'm close to 48MPG but I really want to hit the 50 threshold. So I want to start with a few mods to help push me over the edge. What should I do? I found some stock (12-hole) wheel covers and those are way more aero than my steelies, hoping that will help a bit, they should be here next week. I'm down for the lawn edging front lip, grill block, etc... just would like to take a poll on what my first few should be.

Thanks!
Jason

PS - I currently follow hypermiler technique as much as I can, getting better. Coast about 2-3 miles of my 25 mile each-way commute right now. EOC in a few safe areas, totaling about 1 mile each way. I do drive 65 on the highway, so perhaps that could be improved.

Daox · 08-26-2011, 02:42 PM

Grill block hands down. Its easy to do, cheap and gives good results.

jbliss10 · 08-26-2011, 02:47 PM

Alright, any pitfalls to avoid? I have a roll of Gorilla Tape, was just going to cover the grill with that...?

Daox · 08-26-2011, 05:21 PM

You can start with that. I'd probably use some material that will hold up better over time. Coroplast is a favorite material here to use for aeromods.

jbliss10 · 08-26-2011, 10:12 PM

Alright I just finished doing the grill block (full), and made clear covers for both bucket headlights! It looks great. Can't wait to see if these changes help my numbers just a bit. I'll do the lawn edging dam next, I just didn't have small enough screws to do it today.

jbliss10 · 08-26-2011, 10:24 PM

Full grill block was created by using Vertical blinds (the kind that you use as a tall curtain for a sliding glass door), cut to fit the opening in the grill, and locked in there with Gorilla Tape. It is hardly noticeable and creates a pretty firm block, as if it is all one piece.

The clear bucket headlight covers were made out of an acrylic poster frame glass. It cut with scissors. Clear packing tape affixed it nicely, then gorilla taped the top of it where the hood meets it. This also accomplished a tight seal between the hood and the headlamps - before there was a huge gap here. So the aero of my metro appears to be quite cleaned up.