help me with aerodynamics in my Chevrolet Blazer truck

[guillermoariast]

Hello, i have a Chevrolet Blazer which is not aerodynamic at all. Hence i need to modify several things.
I would like you to help me with ideas.

regards,
Guillermo Arias
Lima, Peru

[slowmover]

A picture would be good, as would truck specification: 4WD or 2WD, automatic transmission or manual, engine displacement, year model, etc.

[jime57]

I'd start by studying some of the stuff that Phil Knox has done. You can click his thread right under "popular topics" on this page. He has been doing pickup aero for a long time and is always willing to give some pointers. I'm an Insight guy, so no real knowledge except, well designed sloped rear caps, wheel covers, and moon caps do seem to help

I also notice that there is a link to a commercially available rear cap in the "topics" but lots of folks here have done their own. Try using the search function to find some of those.

[BamZipPow]

Isn't the Blazer a SUV type of vehicle? How far are you willing to go with aerodynamics? How much flexibility in utility do you want to retain?

[TXwaterdog]

Google Chevrolet cyclone and GMC typhoon. Those two models are the pinicle of your SUV. There's some interesting aero bumpers and mods you can take from them.

[guillermoariast]

Hello, thanks for your answers, my 1980 Blazer details:

- engine: 4100 cc or 250 ci, gasoline
- 4x4
- full covered body, not a pickup.
- 2100 Kg or 4200 pounds weight
- manual transmission

I can not attach graphics files because i'm new in the forum

[TXwaterdog]

Originally Posted by guillermoariast

Hello, thanks for your answers, my 1980 Blazer details:

- engine: 4100 cc or 250 ci, gasoline
- 4x4
- full covered body, not a pickup.
- 2100 Kg or 4200 pounds weight
- manual transmission

I can not attach graphics files because i'm new in the forum

Well first thing I see is a weight issue. Have you removed the rear seat and spare? Every 100lbs is good for 4% increase in fuel economy. The next thing I would do is consider checking your front stabilizer shock to make sure your truck is driving true without too much slop (corrections loose momentum and reduce mpgs). Check Tire pressure, alignment and wear. Double Check cv boots, hubs and suspension parts that can be lubed. - you need to be rolling smooth before attacking aerodynamics.

If your truck is lifted try to get back to stock suspension. Lowering it to the height of a 2x4 is a good idea also. If you don't use the 4x4 make sure to engage it once a month just to lube it up.

A transmission service would be a good idea here as well.. The smoother your rolling, the better the mpgs.

Check spark plug gaps, air & fuel filter, etc.. If your in the mood, I'd pop off your intake and give it a good cleaning with a wire brush and carb cleaner.

**Once you've done this, go 3 tanks and adjust the nut behind the wheel.**

Then when it comes to aerodynamics a front lip and side skirts would be a good idea. A full belly pan would be good as well. Consider a grill block also. These mods can all be done for around $100. But you won't see the benefit if you're not applying the correct methods.

A stage 3 project might be taking off your rear removable top and customizing an aerocap like some of the pickup truck guys have. That would drastically reduce weight and drag. I'd like to see a couple of tanks with just this cap off the truck then the aerocap added.

Sure you can attack this out of order and get the best bang for the buck, but you won't be able to compare the data and know what your true be benefit will be. **Adjusting the nut behind the wheel is the biggest challenge. It will also see the most gains.

[guillermoariast]

Hi, if i cover the front grill of the truck. Is it possible to overheat the engine?. Should i leave a hole for cooling or just cover it all?

[guillermoariast]

Here are the pics:





As you can see, the truck is squared, not aerodynamic.

[TXwaterdog]

Originally Posted by guillermoariast

Hi, if i cover the front grill of the truck. Is it possible to overheat the engine?. Should i leave a hole for cooling or just cover it all?

In short, yes you might be able to overheat the truck, but in the winter it will help keep the engine up to operating temp and save gas.

Use the search feature! Look at the other multiple posts on these topics! Research, there's plenty of knowledge here with test results and all. Please look it up!

Click here for search feature "grill block" results