The following predictions are made for the project if built to drawings:
NOTE: since this trailer carries zero 'load',it is by default,over-engineered.Consequently,approx. 21.5-lbs ( 9.77 kg ) can be removed selectively from the original trailer without sacrificing structural integrity
* 'shaved' weight,trailer kit = 118.5 lbs ( 53.86 kg )
* thermo-formed ABS plastic top = 32 lbs ( 14.54 kg )
* thermo-formed ABS plastic belly = 19 lbs ( 8.63 kg )
* thermo-formed ABS plastic wheel/leaf-spring/axle fairings = 20 lbs ( 9.09 kg )
* with steel out-rigger body supports and gap-filler mechanism,all-up weight of complete trailer = 225 lbs ( 102.27 kg )
* with 15 % tongue-weight = 191.25 lbs ( 86.93 kg ) on axle
* rolling-resistance penalty @ 55 mph ( 88.5 km/h )= 4.1 mpg ( bias-ply tires )
* ditto ------------------------------------------ = 3.777 mpg ( radials )
* modified wake area = 1.632 square-feet ( 0.151 square meters )
* modified drag coefficient = Cd 0.143
* aerodynamic drag benefit @ 55 mph = 11.3 mpg
* net gain from trailer based on tire type = 7.2-7.5 mpg
* predicted new fuel economy @ 55 mph = 60.2-60.5 mpg at steady speed,from a baseline of 53 mpg ( current tank mileage ).
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Many hundreds of hours from now we'll know something!
