aerodynamic boat tail shape formula...
 

looking for the optimum shape for a truck bed cover.

does anyone have a formula that approximates the shape of a perfect boat tail?

Thanks

A 2-in-12 pitch is a close approximation.

Tell me what truck you got and I'll put the template on it, and you can build it to that. I don't recall the Focus ZX3 as having a 1/2 ton or 3/4 ton version. :rolleyes:

(As this is a potential project for me, how about my truck, ChazInMT? I'm a ways off yet, but I'd appreciate the pic as reference. Would much appreciate it).

@Slowmover

Here ya Be.

http://i52.tinypic.com/2v9p4j7.jpg

Link to a big version here:

Big Version of Ram w/ Template

I had fun doing this. I started with this pic and figured out a way to mask out the background. I think it looks pretty great. (Cut off that side step thing too)

http://i54.tinypic.com/2rcxvtf.jpg

My truck is an 02' GMC Sierra Denali with Quadrasteer, AWD, and a 6.0L V8 engine...the focus is my commuter for 90 miles / day trip

ChazinMT, the red line you placed over the Ram is what im interested in. do you have a formula for the curve or a way i could insert it into AutoCAD.

Thanks, Josh

Tru, so far as I know, no one has AutoCad filed the template. If you wish to trace it and make a autocad file for yourself, here is the shape it's based on in this thread here. You'll want to read through all this if your serious about it.

Aerodynamic Streamlining Template Part C

I do this using the Draw program in MS Word and "process" the result using Acrobat, Photoshop, and MS Office Picture Manager. Here's a Denali.

http://i52.tinypic.com/a6vyv.jpg


Link to a bigger version, since this forum is unable to display large pics.

Bigger Pic of Denali w/ Template

Thank you much, ChazInMt!!

You can find an equation of the Streamlining Template in this thread...

http://ecomodder.com/forum/showthrea...ect-13533.html

Read through the sections labeled....

Making Use of the AeroHead Streamlining Template 1, 2 & 3

There should be an equation in there that duplicates the shape.

Hope this helps, Jim.