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Old 06-01-2012, 03:32 AM   #29 (permalink)
ChazInMT
Aero Deshi
 
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Join Date: Jan 2010
Location: Vero Beach, FL
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MagMetalCivic - '04 Honda Civic Sedan EX
Last 3: 34.25 mpg (US)
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Quote:
Originally Posted by drmiller100 View Post
Chas, There is almost NOTHING more ideal then a LOOOOOONG straight trailer.

I believe we will see the benefits listed, perhaps a bit more.

As I interpret Aero's comments, he is saying the same thing. We might be off 5 or 10 percent, but the savings are HUGE.
Keep in mind that the "aero drag" part of the fuel economy equation here is still only a one part of the overall picture. Sheer engine size, large frontal areas, unsavory aerodynamic interactions between the truck and trailer, and even skin drag on such a large vehicle comes into play more. None of these items are being affected by the addition of the tail cone, so a 50% improvement at the rear, is still only 50% of maybe 20% of the equation (WAGing myself at this point) The improvements at the rear are only going to get you 10-15% better mileage tops if done properly. Driving habits are still the biggest area for improvement.

I highly doubt you'll go from 11MPG to 16MPG by slapping a tailpiece on your rig. If your definition of HUGE is 11MPG to 13MPG, and good driving habits end up getting you to 14MPG, then I guess we're talking the same language.
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